15 Rare Washington Coins Worth Big Money: Washington coins, particularly quarters, have fascinated collectors for decades. While most are worth only their face value, certain rare issues, mint errors, and historically significant varieties can command prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. This guide explores fifteen of the most valuable Washington coins, their history, and what makes them so desirable to collectors in 2026.
The Origins of the Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter was first struck in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Intended as a one-year commemorative, it became a permanent fixture of U.S. coinage. Over the years, the series has produced numerous rarities and varieties that collectors continue to seek.
Factors That Influence Value
- Date and Mint Mark: Certain years and mint locations produced fewer coins.
- Condition: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition fetch far higher prices.
- Historical Significance: First-year issues or coins tied to major events are highly prized.
- Errors and Varieties: Misstrikes, doubled dies, and unusual minting anomalies can make a coin extremely valuable.
Fifteen Rare Washington Coins Worth Collecting
| Coin | Year | Mint | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Quarter | 1932-D | Denver | $20,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1932-S | San Francisco | $15,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1934 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $6,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1937 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $5,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1943 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $3,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1950-D/S Overmintmark | Denver/San Francisco | $7,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1950 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | $5,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse | Denver | $2,500+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1970-S Struck on Canadian Planchet | San Francisco | $35,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1974 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $2,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | $1,500+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1995 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $1,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf High | Denver | $1,500+ |
| Washington Quarter | 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Low | Denver | $1,500+ |
| Washington Quarter | 2019-W Lowell National Park | West Point | $500+ |
Mint Errors That Add Value
Collectors prize error coins because they are unique anomalies. Some of the most valuable Washington quarter errors include:
- Off-Center Strikes: Coins struck outside the normal alignment.
- Double Dies: Letters or numbers appear doubled due to die misalignment.
- Wrong Planchet Errors: Coins struck on blanks intended for other denominations.
- Clipped Planchets: Coins missing a portion of their edge.
The 1932-D and 1932-S Quarters
The first-year Washington quarters are among the most coveted. The Denver and San Francisco issues had very low mintages, making them scarce in all grades. High-grade examples can command tens of thousands of dollars.
The 1970-S Canadian Planchet Error
One of the most famous modern rarities, the 1970-S quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter planchet, is valued at over $35,000. This extraordinary mint error is a highlight of any advanced collection.
The Wisconsin Extra Leaf Varieties
In 2004, quarters from the Wisconsin state series were discovered with an extra leaf on the corn stalk design. Both the high leaf and low leaf varieties are highly collectible and continue to attract strong demand.
Modern West Point Issues
The 2019-W quarters marked the first time circulating quarters were struck at the West Point Mint. Released in limited numbers, they quickly became collector favorites. The Lowell National Park issue is particularly sought after.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Washington Coins
- Check Mint Marks: Located on the reverse (older coins) or obverse (modern coins).
- Inspect for Errors: Use magnification to spot doubled dies or misstrikes.
- Grade Professionally: Services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and assign value.
- Preserve Condition: Store coins in protective holders to prevent wear and tarnish.
The Collector’s Perspective
Washington coins are unique because they have been continuously produced for nearly a century. Each design reflects American history, from the original 1932 commemorative to the modern America the Beautiful and American Women series. Collectors value these coins not only for their rarity but also for the stories they tell.
Conclusion
Rare Washington coins are more than currency; they are artifacts of American heritage. Whether you are searching through pocket change or investing in high-grade specimens, understanding key dates, mint marks, and varieties can help you uncover treasures worth far more than their face value. For collectors in 2026, these fifteen coins represent both financial value and a tangible connection to the nation’s past.