Everyday pockets and register tills still hide coins that can be worth far more than face value. This guide explains which quarters collectors prize, how to spot them, and what to do if you find one.
How quarters become valuable
Value comes from rarity, condition, metal content, and mint errors. Coins made before 1965 contain 90% silver and have intrinsic melt value. Key dates and low-mintage issues or noticeable minting errors also raise collector interest.
Even modern quarters can be valuable if they have clear die errors or rare design varieties from state and national park series.
13 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation
Below are 13 types and specific issues collectors commonly look for. Values change with condition and demand, so treat the numbers as general guidance.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
This is a key-date Washington quarter with a low mintage. In circulated grades it can be worth significantly more than face value, and much more in higher grades.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
The San Francisco-minted 1932-S is another scarce early Washington quarter issue. Quality and eye appeal drive the price for this date.
3. Pre-1965 Silver Washington Quarters (1932–1964)
All quarters struck before 1965 are 90% silver. Even common dates have value linked to silver content and collector interest.
- Melt value baseline: driven by silver market price.
- Collector value: depends on scarcity and condition.
4. Standing Liberty Quarter (1916–1930)
The 1916 Type 1 Standing Liberty quarter is especially sought after. Other early dates and high-grade examples are collectible too.
5. Barber Quarter (1892–1916)
Barber quarters include several scarce dates, such as the 1896. These coins are often far more valuable than face value when found in decent condition.
6. Draped Bust Quarter (1796–1807)
Very rare in any condition, Draped Bust quarters are major rarities. Finding one in circulation is almost impossible, but they remain one of the most valuable quarter types.
7. Key-Date Washington Varieties
Certain Washington quarter dates beyond 1932 are scarce because of low mintages. Look for obvious mint marks and check reference guides for key-date lists.
8. State Quarters with Die Errors
Several state quarters have known die errors or varieties that can be valuable. The 2004 Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” and similar varieties in other issues are examples collectors chase.
9. National Park Quarters with Varieties
The America the Beautiful series produced multiple varieties and error strikes. Some circulation strikes with strong doubling or unusual breaks can attract premiums.
10. Doubled Die and Repunched Mint Mark Quarters
Doubled die obverses or repunched mint marks can make a common-year quarter worth more. Strong, clear doubling is the most valuable.
11. Mint State or Near Uncirculated Older Quarters
An older quarter in unusually high condition can be more valuable than a scarce worn example. Uncirculated pieces from classic series often command high prices.
12. Error Strikes: Off-Center, Clipped Planchet, Broadstrike
Major minting errors are collector magnets. The larger the error and the more eye-appealing, the higher the market interest.
13. Modern Low-Mintage or Special Proof-Like Circulation Strikes
Some mint runs produced proof-like or low-mintage circulation strikes that later rose in value. These are less predictable but worth checking.
How to spot valuable quarters in circulation
Inspect coins under good light and use a loupe or smartphone macro camera. Look for:
- Mint marks (D, S, P) and rare dates.
- Unusual doubling, missing design elements, or off-center strikes.
- Silver color (pre-1965 coins) or differences in weight and sound.
What to do if you find a potentially valuable quarter
Handle coins by the edges and keep them in clean flips or coin pages. Avoid cleaning; cleaning often reduces value.
Compare the coin to reference photos online, then consult a reputable dealer or third-party grading service for a valuation if the coin appears rare or error-filled.
All U.S. quarters dated 1964 and earlier contain 90% silver. That simple date check can instantly tell you if a coin has intrinsic metal value above face.
Quick tips for sellers and buyers
- Get a second opinion on rare finds before selling.
- Use recent auction results to set price expectations.
- Keep documentation and avoid cleaning coins.
Real-world example: A find from pocket change
A hobbyist emptied a change jar at a coin shop and noticed a worn 1932-D Washington quarter. After a quick comparison to reference images and a dealer check, the coin was confirmed as a key-date in circulated condition. The owner sold the piece to the dealer; the sale netted several times face value and funded more collecting supplies.
Final checklist when you find a quarter
- Note the date and mint mark.
- Do not clean or file the coin.
- Photograph it and compare to reference guides.
- Seek a reputable dealer or auction estimate for higher-value items.
Finding a valuable quarter in circulation is rare but not impossible. A careful eye and a bit of knowledge can turn ordinary change into an unexpected reward.