Despite being considered a common pocket change, the 1980 Washington quarter occasionally has a value significantly higher than its face value. Some extremely uncommon and error types have even brought values close to that of a house.
This article will explore the elements that affect the 1980 Washington quarter’s worth, the infrequent errors that may add to its value, and important information that collectors should be aware of.
A Brief Overview of the 1980 Washington Quarter
One of American history’s most enduring coin designs is the Washington quarter series, which debuted in 1932. Quarters were struck in 1980 at the mints in Denver (D) and Philadelphia (P).
1980 is significant to collectors because it was the first time the Philadelphia Mint added a “P” mint mark to their quarters, which had none before. This year’s quarters have no silver content and are made of a clad mixture of copper and nickel.
Although the majority of 1980s circulating quarters are only worth their 25-cent face value, uncirculated coins and coins with uncommon defects can command high prices.
Furthermore, San Francisco-minted proof coins (designated with a “S”) were made especially for collectors and, depending on condition, might fetch greater prices.
Factors Influencing a 1980 Washington Quarter’s Value
1. Condition/Grade
A quarter’s worth is mostly dependent on its condition, just like the value of any other collector coin. The value of coins in proof condition (PF) or mint state (MS) exceeds that of coins that have been in circulation. The grading ranges are MS60 (lower mint state) to MS70 (excellent condition).
2. Marks in mint condition
Three mint marks are possible for the 1980 Washington quarter: D for the Denver Mint and P for the Philadelphia MintS for Proof Coins from the San Francisco Mint.
The mint mark is on the coin’s obverse side, close to Washington’s ponytail. Philadelphia and Denver mint quarters have low value while specific proofs or errors in mint condition can increase their value.
3. Errors
Finding rare mint flaws is one of the most exciting components of coin collecting. Several inaccuracies boosted the 1980 quarter’s worth. Among them:
4. Off-Center Strikes Error
Incorrectly struck quarters with off-center patterns. The more mismatch there is, the higher the value.
5. Double Strikes
A coin with overlapping designs from being struck more than once.
6. Die Cracks and Breaks
These are fissures in the die used to strike the coin, which give it elevated lines or blobs.
7. Planchet Mistakes
This happens when a coin, such as a five-cent piece, is struck on a planchet that is the incorrect size. These mistakes are extremely uncommon and valuable.
Key Examples and Auction Records
1. 1980-P and 1980-D Quarters
These coins usually cost $0.30 to $0.85 in circulating condition. However, their value can be increased dramatically in uncirculated conditions (MS65 or higher). For example, an auction of a 1980-D quarter in MS67 condition brought in $1,380.
2. 1980-S Proof Quarters
Proof coins, made especially for collectors, can cost anywhere from $1.15 to $85, depending on their grade. A flawless PF70 DCAM (Deep Cameo) 1980-S proof quarter once brought in $253 at the auction.
3. Error Coins
1980 Washington quarter series error variants can fetch hefty auction prices. As an example :$253 was paid for a 1980-P quarter struck on a five-cent planchet.
Depending on their severity, off-center strike errors with 10% to 50% misalignment can be valued anywhere from $15 to over $150.
| Grade/Condition | 1980-P Estimated Value | 1980-D Estimated Value | 1980-S Proof Value | Error Coins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.30 – $0.85 | $0.30 – $0.85 | N/A | N/A |
| MS60 | $1.50 – $2 | $1.50 – $2 | N/A | N/A |
| MS65 | $15 | $15 | N/A | N/A |
| MS67 | Up to $210 | Up to $1,380 | N/A | N/A |
| PF70 (Proof) | N/A | N/A | Up to $253 | N/A |
| Off-Center Error (10%-50%) | N/A | N/A | N/A | $15 – $150 |
| Struck on Five-Cent Planchet | N/A | N/A | N/A | Up to $253 |
Due to its distinctive position in American coin history and the possibility of finding rare, valuable error coins, the 1980 Washington Quarter is highly sought after by collectors. Although the majority of 1980 quarters are only worth their face value, some with errors or in pristine condition might be valued at hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
In addition to carefully checking their coins for important mint marks and inaccuracies, collectors should consider having any interesting finds professionally graded.