This unassuming quarter is worth far more than its 25-cent face value. Though it may look like any regular coin, some versions are fetching hundreds of dollars on the collector’s market.
Rare coins often command high prices, especially when they feature unique errors, imperfections, or distinguishing characteristics. A recent eBay sale saw a 1983 Washington quarter with a rare minting flaw go for $300. So, checking your change might reveal a hidden gem worth a few hundred dollars!
This particular coin has a notable off-center stamp error, which adds to its value. It’s a standard 25-cent coin minted in Denver, with a “D” mint mark near Washington’s head on the reverse side. The “D” signifies its Denver origin, and an additional error where this mark appears filled-in and blurry enhances its rarity.
Washington quarters continue to circulate, yet the most prized versions come from the initial 1932 mintage year. To determine the date on your quarter, look below Washington’s portrait. The U.S. Mint produced Washington quarters at three facilities: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S), with Denver coins currently being the rarest.
The Most Sought-After Washington Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is particularly special, created to honor America’s 200th birthday. While millions were minted, a select few stand out due to rare minting errors, making them especially valuable to collectors.
Collectors prize double-struck coins, which contain design misprints that enhance their worth. However, only flawless coins in perfect mint condition reach the highest prices. Bicentennial quarters that have remained uncirculated are particularly valuable those that haven’t gone through daily use retain their condition and fetch top dollar.
What should you look for in a valuable Bicentennial Quarter? Here are a few key features:
High Mint State (MS68 or Higher)
Mint State coins that haven’t circulated hold the greatest value. An MS68 grade or higher greatly increases a quarter’s market value.
Distinctive Design
Look for dual dates (1776-1976) on the quarter. The obverse shows George Washington, while the reverse displays a colonial drummer, a victory torch, and 13 stars. This unique design was only produced in 1975 and 1976.
Double-Strike Error
This is the ultimate find! The highest-value 1976 Bicentennial Quarters feature a double-struck obverse, creating a rare shadow effect on Washington’s portrait. Collectors highly prize these unique errors.
How to Sell a Rare Washington Quarter
If you think you have a valuable quarter, consider having it professionally graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its condition. Once graded, you can explore selling it through an auction house or certified coin dealer.
So next time you’re sorting through spare change, take a close look your Bicentennial Quarter could be worth thousands! With the right combination of rarity, condition, and errors, it may just be a collector’s dream.
Don’t wait start checking your coins today; you might discover a quarter that’s worth a small fortune!
Conclusion
With just a quick check through your change, you might come across a Washington quarter worth far more than face value. Rare quarters with minting errors have proven valuable for collectors, with some coins even reaching prices in the hundreds.
By keeping an eye out for those unique features like off-center stamps or filled mint marks, you could turn spare change into a worthwhile find. So, don’t wait your next rare Washington quarter could be the beginning of an exciting discovery!
FAQs
What makes this Washington quarter worth $300?
This quarter has a rare minting error, making it valuable to collectors who are willing to pay a premium for such unique coins.
How can I tell if my Washington quarter is rare?
Look for features like off-center stamping, filled mint marks, or other visible errors on the coin.
Where can I sell a rare Washington quarter?
You can sell it on online auction sites, through certified coin dealers, or at reputable auction houses.
Which Washington quarter is the rarest?
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter and certain quarters from 1983 with minting errors are among the rarest and most valuable.