For coin collectors and enthusiasts, some U.S. quarters hold immense historical and monetary value.
Rare quarters are prized for their unique features, mint errors, or limited production, making them a collector’s dream. Here are 10 rare U.S. quarters that are worth big money in 2024.
10 Rare U.S. Quarters Worth Big Money in 2024
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. Produced at the Denver Mint with a low mintage of only 436,800 coins, this quarter has become rare in high-grade conditions. Depending on the coin’s state, its value can range from $100 to a staggering $143,750.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key date for the Washington Quarter series. Only 408,000 quarters were minted in San Francisco, making this coin rare and valuable. In good condition, it can sell for over $100, and top-graded examples have fetched prices upwards of $35,000.
3. 1943 Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1943 Washington Quarter with a doubled die obverse (DDO) is another valuable coin, especially in mint condition. This error coin can fetch between $22,250 to $40,000, depending on its grade.The doubling on the obverse adds a unique feature that collectors crave.
4. 1950-D Washington Quarter
Though produced in relatively larger numbers, the 1950-D Washington Quarter is valuable in uncirculated condition with a high mint state grade (MS67). A 1950-D quarter in excellent condition can sell for $6,000 to $7,500.
5. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
This modern coin became famous for its “extra leaf” minting error. A few Wisconsin State Quarters from 2004 were struck with an additional leaf on the corn stalk, significantly increasing their value. Depending on the version of the error (high or low leaf), these coins have sold for up to $6,000.
6. 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Planchet)
While most quarters minted in 1965 were made of copper and nickel, a few were mistakenly struck on silver planchets left over from previous years. This error is extremely rare, with some examples selling for up to $7,500 in high-grade condition.
7. 1971-S Washington Quarter (Proof Deep Cameo)
The 1971-S Proof Washington Quarter with a deep cameo finish is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and pristine condition. Coins graded PR69DCAM (Deep Cameo) have sold for as much as $7,475.
8. 1999 Delaware State Quarter (Experimental Planchet)
The 1999 Delaware State Quarter was part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters program, but a few coins were mistakenly struck on an experimental planchet made of a different alloy. These error coins can be worth thousands, with high-grade examples fetching up to $4,888.
9. 1828 Capped Bust Quarter (25/50C Overstrike)
The 1828 Capped Bust Quarter with the unique “25/50C” overstrike is one of the most valuable early quarters. The coin’s rarity stems from its overdate and unique denomination marking. In excellent condition, this quarter can sell for as much as $112,176.
10. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
One of the oldest and rarest quarters, the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is a coveted piece for collectors. With only 6,738 coins minted, it is rare even in circulated condition. This coin has been known to fetch anywhere from $2,800 to $75,000, with top-graded uncirculated versions reaching nearly $500,000.
| Quarter Year | Unique Feature | Estimated Value (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington | Low mintage (436,800) | $100 – $143,750 |
| 1932-S Washington | Low mintage (408,000) | $100 – $35,000 |
| 1943 DDO Washington | Doubled die obverse | $22,250 – $40,000 |
| 1950-D Washington | High mint state grade | $6,000 – $7,500 |
| 2004 Wisconsin | Extra leaf minting error | Up to $6,000 |
| 1965 Washington | Silver planchet error | Up to $7,500 |
| 1971-S Washington | Proof deep cameo | $7,475 |
| 1999 Delaware | Experimental planchet | Up to $4,888 |
| 1828 Capped Bust | 25/50C overstrike | $112,176 |
| 1804 Draped Bust | Limited mintage (6,738) | $2,800 – $500,000 |
Conclusion
Collecting rare U.S. quarters can be a rewarding hobby, with some coins fetching prices that far exceed their face value.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, it’s worth keeping an eye out for these rare and valuable quarters.
From historical coins like the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter to modern errors like the 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter, these treasures may still be out there waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my quarter is valuable?
Look for unique features such as low mintages, special mint marks, or minting errors like double strikes or planchet mistakes. High-grade conditions (mint state) increase value, and professional appraisals can confirm a coin’s worth.
2. Can valuable quarters still be found in circulation?
Yes, though rare, some valuable quarters like the 1932-D or 1932-S Washington Quarters and error coins like the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter might still be in circulation. Keep an eye out for unusual dates or mint marks.
3. Where can I sell rare quarters?
Rare quarters can be sold through coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms such as eBay. It’s recommended to get a professional appraisal for higher-value coins before selling.
4. Why are some quarters worth more than others?
Quarters can be valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, historical significance, or condition. Coins with low mintages or unique features tend to be more sought after by collectors.
5. What is the most valuable U.S. quarter?
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most valuable, with prices reaching up to $500,000 for uncirculated versions. Other valuable quarters include the 1828 Capped Bust Quarter and the 1932-D Washington Quarter.
References
- L&C Coins, “9 Most Valuable US Quarters,” 2024.
- USA Coin Book, “Most Valuable US Quarters,” 2024.
- GBF News, “Top 10 U.S. Quarters Worth Big Money,” 2024.
- CoinValueChecker, “16 Most Valuable Modern Quarter Coins,” 2024.