Washington Quarter Value Guide 2026: Washington quarters are among the most familiar coins in everyday life. For decades, they have passed through hands at grocery stores, parking meters, and vending machines with little attention. Yet beneath this ordinary appearance lies a series filled with history, variety, and surprising value. As collectors head into 2026, interest in Washington quarters has grown steadily, with many people discovering that certain dates and varieties can be worth far more than twenty-five cents.
This value guide explores what makes some Washington quarters desirable, why collectors are paying close attention in 2026, and which ten high-value coins are worth looking for.
A Brief History of the Washington Quarter Series
The Washington quarter was first issued in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. The design was well received and soon became the standard quarter design in the United States. Over the years, billions of quarters were minted, making the series one of the most widely collected in American coinage.
Early Washington quarters were struck in silver, a fact that alone adds value to older examples. Later versions transitioned to a copper-nickel composition, and modern quarters have seen several design updates. Each era has produced its own varieties and quirks that collectors study closely.
What Makes a Washington Quarter Valuable
Several factors influence the value of a Washington quarter. Rarity is the most obvious. Coins with low mintage numbers or limited survival rates naturally attract more attention. Condition also plays a major role. A well-preserved quarter with sharp details and minimal wear can be worth significantly more than a heavily circulated example of the same date.
Mint marks matter as well. Quarters struck in Denver and San Francisco can be scarcer in certain years, especially in high-grade condition. Errors and unusual varieties add another layer of interest, as they create unique coins that stand out from standard issues.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in the series. With relatively low production numbers, it has long been considered a key date. Most examples saw heavy circulation, making well-preserved pieces particularly scarce.
Collectors seeking to complete a Washington quarter set often view this coin as a major milestone. High-grade examples can command strong premiums due to their scarcity and importance within the series.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Alongside the Denver issue, the 1932-S quarter is another cornerstone of the series. Its low mintage and widespread circulation mean that finding a high-quality example is a challenge.
The San Francisco mint mark adds to its appeal, and demand remains strong among collectors who value early dates and historical significance.
3. 1934 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
Some 1934 quarters exhibit doubled die features on the obverse, most noticeable in the lettering. These varieties are less common than standard issues and attract collectors interested in minting errors.
Because doubled die varieties can be subtle, many examples went unnoticed for years. As awareness has grown, so has interest in identifying and collecting these coins.
4. 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
The 1937 doubled die obverse quarter is another error variety that has gained attention. The doubling can be seen in certain design elements, making it a distinctive piece for collectors who specialize in varieties.
These error coins add diversity to collections and appeal to those who enjoy the challenge of spotting subtle differences.
5. 1943 Silver Washington Quarter in High Grade
While 1943 quarters are not rare by date alone, high-grade silver examples are increasingly difficult to find. Many were heavily circulated during World War II, leaving few in near-pristine condition.
Collectors value these coins not only for their silver content but also for their connection to a significant historical period. Exceptional examples can carry notable premiums.
6. 1950-D Washington Quarter in Top Condition
The 1950-D quarter is another coin where condition plays a critical role in value. While not extremely rare in circulated grades, high-quality examples with strong strikes and minimal wear are much harder to locate.
As collectors focus more on building high-grade sets, demand for well-preserved mid-century quarters has increased.
7. 1964 Silver Washington Quarter
The 1964 quarter marks the final year of silver composition for the series. This transition year carries added interest, as it represents the end of an era in American coinage.
While many 1964 quarters were saved due to rising silver prices, finding examples in exceptional condition remains a challenge. Collectors often seek these coins as symbolic pieces within their collections.
8. 1965 Transition Error Quarter
The year 1965 marked the switch from silver to clad composition. Transition errors from this period, such as quarters struck on the wrong metal planchet, have become highly desirable.
These errors offer a tangible reminder of the changes happening at the Mint during the mid-1960s. Their unusual nature makes them standout pieces in any collection.
9. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter With Unusual Characteristics
Proof quarters from 1970-S are generally common, but certain examples with distinctive features or striking anomalies attract collector interest. Proof coins are known for their mirror-like finish, and any deviation from the norm can create a collectible variety.
Collectors who focus on proof sets often seek out these unusual examples to add variety to their holdings.
10. Modern Error Quarters
Modern Washington quarters occasionally feature minting errors such as off-center strikes, doubled dies, or planchet issues. While not all errors are valuable, distinctive and well-documented examples can command strong premiums.
As minting technology has improved, some types of errors have become rarer, increasing interest when they do appear.
How Collectors Are Finding High-Value Quarters
Many collectors search through old coin jars, inherited collections, and bank rolls in hopes of finding valuable quarters. Roll hunting has become a popular method, allowing enthusiasts to examine large numbers of coins efficiently.
Estate sales and flea markets can also yield surprises, especially when sellers are unaware of the potential value of older coins. These everyday sources keep the hunt accessible and engaging.
Tips for Evaluating Your Quarters
When examining quarters, start by checking the date and mint mark. Next, assess the condition by looking at the sharpness of details and the overall surface quality. Using a magnifying glass can help identify subtle doubling or unusual features.
Comparing coins to reliable reference images can prevent misidentification. If a coin appears unusual or potentially valuable, professional evaluation can provide clarity.
A Familiar Coin With Lasting Appeal
Washington quarters may seem ordinary, but within the series lie coins that continue to capture collector interest and command impressive prices. As 2026 approaches, renewed attention to high-value dates and varieties has reminded people that hidden treasures can exist in the most familiar places.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone curious about the coins in your pocket, taking a closer look at Washington quarters can reveal a small window into history and the enduring appeal of American coinage.