At PennyVerse.info, we dig deep into overlooked U.S. coins that could turn into life-changing finds. And the 1990-D Washington Quarter is no exception. Some collectors believe that a rare combination of minting errors on a single coin—double-die mintmark, die clash, and “spitting eagle” chip—could push its value into seven-figure territory.
Could your 1990-D quarter hold the key to a million-dollar payday?
The $1.5M Error Combination: What to Look For
While a typical 1990-D quarter is only worth face value, one with these ultra-rare error combinations may be worth up to $1,500,000, if authenticated and graded in top condition:
1. Double-Die Mintmark (
)
- What it is: The “D” mintmark shows a clear, separated doubling.
- How to spot it: Use a 10x–20x magnifier. Look for distinct split lines—not blurry, flat doubling (that’s machine doubling).
2. “DD Wing” Die Clash (
)
- What it is: Obverse and reverse dies struck each other without a blank coin in between, transferring ghost-like details.
- How to spot it: Look for traces of Washington’s face or letters appearing faintly near the eagle’s wings.
3. “Spitting Eagle” Die Chip (
)
- What it is: A raised die chip that appears like a spit stream from the eagle’s beak.
- How to spot it: Use close-up images. Look for a small, raised line or dot near the mouth.
True Errors vs. Worthless Damage – Know the Difference
| Type | Value? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die |  Yes |
True minting error caused by die misalignment |
| Die Clash | Yes |
Mis-strike imprinting part of the opposite design |
| Die Chip (“Spit”) | Yes |
Caused by die damage; raised area, not post-mint damage |
| Machine Doubling |  No |
Flat, shelf-like doubling—not collectible |
| Post-Mint Damage | No |
Scratches, dings, or tool marks—no added value |
Condition = Cash: The Power of Grading
To unlock full market value, your coin’s condition matters:
| Grade | Condition | Impact on Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | Worn, but error visible | Some value |
| AU-50 | Light wear, some luster | Higher premium |
| MS-63 | Mint State, minor marks | Strong value |
| MS-65+ | Nearly perfect, brilliant luster |  Top-tier pricing potential |
| MS-67+ | Flawless, museum quality |  Could break auction records if errors exist |
What to Do If You Think You Found One
Step 1: DON’T Clean It!
Cleaning destroys original surfaces and ruins value.
Step 2: Get It Professionally Graded
Submit to PCGS or NGC to confirm error authenticity and grade.
Step 3: Sell with Confidence
Once graded, contact elite auction houses like:
They specialize in high-end error coins and have the network to get top dollar.
Spotting Fakes & Staying Safe
- Use high-resolution comparison photos from PCGS CoinFacts or NGC VarietyPlus.
- Only trust certified coins for big purchases or sales.
- Beware counterfeits! Coins with outrageous claims must be verified.
2024–2025 Coin Market Trend Snapshot
Multi-error coins are booming
Die clashes and rare anomalies are in demand
Collectors trust PCGS/NGC certification
The online coin community is growing rapidly
Bonus: Get Your Free Error Coin Checklist
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Found a Strange 1990-D Quarter?
Submit your coin photos to our experts for free preliminary evaluation. You might be the next person holding a million-dollar mistake in your hand.
