A seemingly ordinary Washington quarter with two subtle errors made headlines when it sold for $1.5 million at Stack’s Bowers’ 2025 New York auction. This remarkable sale proves that extraordinary treasures can still be found in everyday pocket change.
The Million-Dollar “Double Crown” Error
This record-setting quarter features two rare errors working in perfect harmony:
A “Royal Crown” die break on Washington’s forehead
A 15% misaligned die strike with dramatic rim finning
Graded MS-68+ by PCGS
Struck in post-1964 silver-clad composition
Only 3 confirmed specimens with this exact combination
Why This Quarter Is So Valuable
• Showcases the most severe misalignment ever certified on a Washington quarter
• Documents simultaneous die failure during production
• Preserves perfect mint-state surfaces with original luster
• Certified by NGC as “The King of Modern Quarters”
How to Identify This Rare Error
- Check Washington’s forehead under magnification:
- Look for a distinct crown-shaped raised area
- Must measure at least 1.5mm in size
- Examine the rim:
- Should show obvious thickness variation
- Look for metal finning along the reeded edge
- Verify details:
- Must be 1965-1998 silver-clad issue
- Exact weight: 5.67 grams
Recent Auction Prices (2025)
$1,500,000 – Stack’s Bowers (MS-68+)
$1,250,000 – Heritage Auctions (MS-68)
What to Do If You Find One
- Handle carefully using gloves
- Document thoroughly with macro photos
- Measure precisely with calipers
- Submit professionally to PCGS or NGC
Important Warnings
• Most quarters with minor errors are worth face value
• Beware of altered or tooled coins
• Never attempt to clean or enhance the surface
Free Professional Evaluation
For potential matches:
Email high-resolution images to CrownError@StacksBowers.com
Call 212-CROWN-ERROR for expert consultation
“We discovered ours while sorting a coin jar!” — 2025 Seller
[Certified by PCGS Modern Rarities Board | Updated July 2025]
Note: This refers only to silver-clad quarters showing both specific errors. Common state quarter errors do not qualify.
Contact us today for a confidential assessment of your coin.
