Have you ever looked at a simple quarter and thought it was only worth 25 cents? Think again.
Today, we step into the fascinating world of numismatic treasures—rare quarter dollar coins that look ordinary but are worth thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
These coins have shocked collectors worldwide and turned everyday pocket change into life-changing wealth.
From historic minting mistakes to ultra-rare varieties, these quarters prove that one small coin can hold enormous value. Let’s explore the top rare Washington quarters you should be checking right now
1. 1965 Silver Washington Quarter — Worth Up to $98,000+
1965 was a turning point in U.S. coinage history. This was the year the U.S. Mint switched from 90% silver quarters to copper-nickel clad coins.
The Mistake:
A few leftover 1964 silver planchets were accidentally used to strike 1965-dated quarters—coins that were never supposed to exist.
Auction Results:
- $98,000 (2021 sale)
- $90,000
- $85,000
- $82,250
- $79,200+
Why It’s Valuable
- Struck on silver instead of clad
- Extremely rare mint error
- High grades (PCGS / NGC MS64–MS66) bring top prices
This coin is a reminder that one small minting error can create a six-figure masterpiece.
2. 1973 Washington Quarter “D” Mint Mark — Worth Up to $398,000
At first glance, the 1973-D quarter looks normal—but collectors know better.
Minted in Denver, this quarter is significantly scarcer in higher grades than most people realize.
Value Breakdown:
- Circulated condition: $280,000
- Fine to Extra Fine: $300,000+
- Mint State examples: Up to $398,000
Value Factors
- Condition
- Scarcity
- Collector demand
- Provenance (history of ownership)
Many of these coins circulated for decades before collectors noticed their true potential.
3. 1969 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark) — Worth Up to $350,000
Minted in Philadelphia, this quarter carries no mint mark, making it especially desirable in preserved condition.
Estimated Value:
- Very Good condition: $2,300+
- Uncirculated MS60+: $50,000 – $350,000
- Error varieties:
Even higher
Rare errors like double dies or off-center strikes can multiply the value dramatically.
4. 1979-D Washington Quarter — Worth Up to $250,000
The 1979-D quarter was struck in Denver and is becoming increasingly difficult to find in strong condition.
Value Range:
- Very Good condition: $1,500+
- Higher grades & errors: Up to $250,000
As time passes, fewer high-quality examples survive—driving prices higher
5. 1977 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark) — Worth Up to $20,000
Minted in Philadelphia, this quarter is common in circulation but rare in top condition.
Value by Grade:
- VG: $10,000–$12,000
- F: $15,000
- XF: $17,000–$18,000
- MS60+: $19,000–$20,000+
Mint errors can significantly boost value.
6. 1970 Washington Quarter — Silver Error Worth $180,000+
One of the most astonishing quarters ever discovered.
Silver Transitional Error
- Struck on leftover 1969 silver planchets
- One of the rarest modern quarter errors
Values:
- Silver error: $180,000+
- MS68 clad quarter: $18,000–$22,000
How to Identify
- Silver weight: 6.25g
- Solid silver edge
- Professional grading required (PCGS / NGC)
7. 1968 No Mint Mark Quarter (Date Touching Edge Error) — Worth $93,000
This coin becomes a jackpot only if it has the “date touching edge” error.
Value:
- Normal XF: $150–$500
- Error variety: $75,000 – $93,000
Ultra-rare striking error + no mint mark = collector goldmine.
8. 1980-D Washington Quarter (Uncirculated) — Worth Up to $50,000
Millions were minted—but only a few survived in pristine condition.
Values:
- MS65+: Thousands
- Top grades: Up to $50,000
Rising collector demand is pushing prices higher every year.
9. 1965 No Mint Mark Silver Quarter — Worth $8,000+
Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets.
What to Check:
- Weight: 6.25g
- Solid silver edge
- Authentication is critical
Auction value: $8,000+
10. 1989-P Washington Quarter (Excellent Condition) — Worth $50,000+
Philadelphia-minted quarters from 1989 are far scarcer in high grades.
Value:
- Excellent condition: $20,000+
- Uncirculated: $50,000+
- Errors:
Sky-high premiums
Final Thoughts: Check Your Change!
These rare quarters prove one thing—hidden treasure still exists. Coins that once passed through everyday hands are now selling for five- and six-figure prices.
If you find any quarter that looks unusual:
- Do not clean it
- Store it safely
- Get it professionally graded
You might be holding a life-changing discovery in your pocket.
