25 Rare Washington Quarters Worth Thousands in 2026: Since their introduction in 1932 to honor the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth, Washington quarters have become one of the most collected coins in American history. While millions were minted over the decades, certain rare varieties, minting errors, and condition rarities have elevated some examples into treasures worth thousands of dollars. In 2026, collectors continue to chase these elusive pieces, driven by both historical fascination and the thrill of investment potential.
Why Washington Quarters Can Be So Valuable
The value of a Washington quarter depends on several factors: rarity, condition, minting errors, and historical significance. Coins with low mintages, unusual varieties, or pristine preservation often command the highest prices. Professional grading services play a crucial role in verifying authenticity and condition, ensuring that collectors can buy and sell with confidence. For investors, rare quarters represent a tangible asset that combines cultural heritage with financial appreciation.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D quarter is one of the most famous rarities in the series. With a mintage of only 436,000, it is the lowest production of all Washington quarters. High-grade examples can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, making it a cornerstone of any serious collection.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the Denver issue, the 1932-S quarter is another key rarity. With just over 408,000 minted, it remains highly sought after. Together, the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters form the foundation of Washington quarter collecting.
1934 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Error coins are among the most exciting finds, and the 1934 doubled die obverse quarter is a prime example. The doubling is visible on the inscriptions, making it a striking variety worth thousands in high grades.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Another early doubled die variety, the 1937 quarter features noticeable doubling on the obverse. Collectors prize it for its rarity and the insight it provides into minting practices of the era.
1942-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1942-D doubled die obverse quarter is a scarce error coin that continues to captivate collectors. Well-preserved examples can command significant premiums.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
Overmintmark varieties are fascinating rarities, and the 1950-D/S quarter is a standout. A Denver mintmark was stamped over a San Francisco mintmark, creating a unique coin worth thousands.
1950-S/D Overmintmark Quarter
Similar to the 1950-D/S, the 1950-S/D quarter features a San Francisco mintmark stamped over a Denver mintmark. These coins are scarce and highly collectible.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1955 doubled die obverse quarter is a dramatic error variety that remains popular among collectors. High-grade examples are especially valuable.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
The 1964-D doubled die reverse quarter is another error coin that has captured attention. Doubling on the reverse inscriptions makes it a striking and valuable variety.
1965 Transitional Error Quarter
In 1965, the Mint transitioned from silver to clad coinage. A few quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets, creating rare transitional errors worth thousands.
1966 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1966 doubled die obverse quarter is a scarce error variety that continues to intrigue collectors. Its rarity ensures strong demand in the marketplace.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter
One of the most unusual rarities is the 1970-S proof quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter. This extraordinary minting error has sold for tens of thousands of dollars.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Proof Quarter
Proof coins are not immune to errors, and the 1971-S doubled die obverse proof quarter is a rare variety that commands significant premiums.
1974-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1974-D doubled die obverse quarter is another error coin that has gained popularity among collectors. High-grade examples are especially valuable.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter Silver Proof
The Bicentennial quarter, featuring a colonial drummer, was minted in massive numbers. However, silver proof versions are highly collectible and can be worth thousands in pristine condition.
1982 No Mintmark Quarter
In 1982, some quarters were struck without the “P” mintmark of the Philadelphia Mint. These coins are rare and valuable, especially in high grades.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
The 1983 doubled die reverse quarter is a scarce error variety that continues to captivate collectors. Well-preserved examples are worth significant sums.
1984 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1984 doubled die obverse quarter is another error coin that remains popular among enthusiasts. Its rarity ensures strong demand.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1995 doubled die obverse quarter is a modern rarity that has gained attention in recent years. High-grade examples can be worth thousands.
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
State quarters introduced new opportunities for errors, and the 1999-P Delaware “spitting horse” variety is a famous example. The error creates the appearance of a line from the horse’s mouth, making it a collectible curiosity.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
The 2004-D Wisconsin quarter with an extra leaf on the corn stalk is one of the most famous modern rarities. Both “extra leaf high” and “extra leaf low” varieties are worth thousands.
2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota quarter features a doubled die variety that creates extra trees in the design. Collectors prize this error, especially in high grades.
2009-D District of Columbia Doubled Die Quarter
The 2009-D District of Columbia quarter features a doubled die error on the inscriptions. This modern rarity continues to attract attention from collectors.
2010 Hot Springs Doubled Die Quarter
The 2010 Hot Springs quarter features a doubled die variety that has become a modern collectible. High-grade examples are especially valuable.
The Role of Condition and Grading
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of rare Washington quarters. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating better preservation. Uncirculated and proof examples of rare varieties can be worth exponentially more than circulated coins. Professional grading services provide authentication and ensure that collectors can buy and sell with confidence.
Collecting Strategies for Washington Quarters
Collectors approach Washington quarters in different ways. Some focus on acquiring all key dates and varieties, while others specialize in error coins. High-grade examples are always prized, as condition greatly influences value. For investors, rare quarters offer diversification and the potential for extraordinary returns.
Conclusion
Washington quarters represent one of the most fascinating chapters in American numismatics. From early rarities like the 1932-D and 1932-S to modern treasures like the Wisconsin extra leaf quarter, these coins showcase the rich history and intriguing errors of the minting process. Their values, often reaching thousands of dollars, highlight the importance of paying attention to details and preserving history. For collectors and enthusiasts in 2026, Washington quarters are more than just currency; they are treasures that connect us to the past and inspire us to keep searching for hidden gems in everyday life.