9 Most Valuable American Quarters in Circulation

Are you curious if the spare change in your pocket could be worth a fortune? Some American quarters, especially older or rare ones, are now highly sought after by collectors and can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. From mint errors to silver content and low mintages, certain quarters still in circulation carry surprising value.

In this article, we highlight the 9 most valuable American quarters you might still find in circulation. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just getting started, this list can help you identify the coins that stand out from the rest. We’ll cover key details like mint years, special varieties, and what makes each coin unique and valuable. Keep reading—you might discover that a rare quarter has been hiding in plain sight all along.

1. 1982-P Washington Quarter Regular Strike

The 1982-P Washington Quarter is considered one of the most valuable quarters still in circulation today due to its unique production issues. In 1982, the U.S. Mint stopped producing uncirculated sets, which meant fewer high-quality coins were saved by collectors. This specific coin from the Philadelphia Mint lacks a mintmark, as was common for coins from that facility at the time. However, the real value comes from its condition and scarcity in higher grades.

Most of these coins were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples extremely rare. Collectors often seek this coin in mint state (MS65 or higher), where it can be worth $30 to $100 or more depending on demand and condition. Its base metal composition (rather than silver) doesn’t limit its value, as rarity and state of preservation play a bigger role. Coins with strong details and minimal wear will always command a premium among collectors.

2. 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter Business Strike

The 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter marks a significant change in U.S. coinage history. This was the first year the U.S. Mint switched from 90% silver to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters, mainly to reduce production costs during the rising silver prices. However, the transition wasn’t entirely smooth. Some collectors believe that early 1965 quarters used leftover silver planchets, although these are extremely rare and controversial.

The Type 2 Clad quarters are standard copper-nickel versions, but finding one in excellent condition is difficult due to the lack of mint sets and mass circulation. High-grade examples in MS66 or above are quite scarce, making them desirable. Even without silver content, their historical context and low survival rate in high condition make them collectible. Values typically range from $20 to over $100 for pristine specimens, especially those graded by top-tier grading services like PCGS or NGC.

3. 1942 Proof Washington Quarter

The 1942 Proof Washington Quarter is a special coin not intended for general circulation, but some may have found their way into everyday use over the decades. These coins were struck using polished dies and planchets, giving them a mirror-like finish and sharp details. Only around 21,000 of these coins were made at the Philadelphia Mint, which makes them highly sought after by collectors today.

Their value depends heavily on condition, especially whether the proof surfaces remain intact. Coins that retain their original luster and sharp definition can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Many collectors are drawn to this coin due to its combination of low mintage, high craftsmanship, and silver content. While not likely found in your pocket change, some circulated examples have surfaced. A certified Proof 65 coin can fetch upwards of $500, while flawless examples can sell for $1,000 or more.

4. 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike

The 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter is another collectible piece that stands out due to its silver composition and the quality of strikes from the Denver Mint. This coin contains 90% silver, adding intrinsic bullion value on top of collector demand. Millions of these quarters were produced, but many were either melted down for silver or circulated heavily, resulting in significant wear. As a result, finding a 1962-D in mint state, especially MS65 or better, is increasingly difficult.

While common in lower grades, high-grade examples can fetch between $15 and $100, depending on the market. Collectors also look for any signs of doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, or strong strikes. These small differences can significantly increase the value of the coin. The fact that silver quarters were phased out shortly after the early 1960s adds to this coin’s collectible appeal, especially among those focused on precious metal content.

5. 1976-S Silver Washington Quarter Business Strike

The 1976-S Silver Washington Quarter was specially issued for the United States Bicentennial celebration and is unique because of its reverse design featuring a colonial drummer. Most of these coins were sold in special collector sets, but some business strike versions were made from 40% silver, unlike the regular copper-nickel clad issues. The “S” mintmark indicates they were struck in San Francisco.

While not extremely rare, these coins are still highly desirable, particularly in uncirculated or proof-like condition. A 1976-S business strike quarter in pristine shape can sell for $20 to $50, and even higher for those graded MS67 or above. Their appeal lies in both their silver content and their commemorative design. Collectors are often drawn to these coins as a reminder of America’s 200th anniversary. Some of them may still be found in circulation, although that is becoming increasingly uncommon as more are pulled out by collectors and investors.

6. 1943 DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) Washington Quarter Business Strike

The 1943 DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) Washington Quarter is one of the most exciting error coins in the series. This variety features noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the inscriptions such as “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date. These types of minting errors occur when the die used to strike the coin shifts slightly during production, resulting in a doubling effect. Collectors love these kinds of varieties because they’re rare and visually interesting.

The 1943 DDO was struck in 90% silver, adding intrinsic value as well. Depending on the severity of the doubling and the condition of the coin, values can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand for high-grade specimens. Many collectors actively search for this error in circulated coins, though finding one is quite rare. It’s one of the best examples of how a mint error can transform an otherwise common coin into a prized collectible.

7. 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike

The 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter is a solid entry on this list due to its silver content and rising collector interest. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin is made from 90% silver, giving it a melt value that fluctuates with the silver market. However, its collectible value often exceeds the bullion price, especially in higher grades. While millions were minted, the number of well-preserved examples is much lower due to circulation and melting over the years.

Mint state coins with sharp details and little to no wear can bring in $20 to $100 depending on the grade. The D mintmark is found on the reverse side, and some collectors look for varieties or die errors that can increase the coin’s value even more. It’s a favorite among silver stackers and traditional coin collectors alike, representing a time when U.S. coins still held substantial precious metal value.

8. 1964-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike

The 1964-D Silver Washington Quarter was the last year the U.S. Mint produced quarters with 90% silver before switching to the clad composition in 1965. This makes it a historically significant coin. Minted in Denver, the coin has a small “D” mintmark on the reverse and was produced in very high numbers. Even so, collectors still prize it, especially in mint state. Many of these coins were hoarded during the coinage transition, so circulated examples are common.

However, finding pristine, uncirculated coins is less easy. MS65 or better coins can fetch $20 to $80 or more, particularly those with strong luster and no contact marks. Some varieties and die errors can boost value significantly. The 1964-D is a common starting point for new collectors interested in silver coins, and it’s often included in U.S. coin type sets. Its combination of silver content and end-of-era status keeps demand strong.

9. 1932-D Washington Quarter Regular Strike

The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable quarters in the Washington series and a true key date. It was one of only two mintmarks used in the first year of the series (the other being the 1932-S), and both had very low mintages. The Denver Mint struck just 436,800 of these coins, making them extremely rare in any grade. Even heavily worn examples can sell for several hundred dollars, while mint state versions can reach thousands.

This coin was released during the Great Depression, which contributed to its low production numbers and extensive circulation. Collectors often look for this quarter to complete a Washington series set, driving its demand. The 1932-D quarter has no special varieties, but its rarity and historical importance make it a top-tier collectible. Anyone lucky enough to find one in pocket change has a real treasure—though it’s increasingly unlikely given how rare they’ve become.

Bottom Line

American quarters can be worth far more than 25 cents if you know what to look for. Key dates, silver content, mint errors, and proof strikes can significantly increase a coin’s value. Coins like the 1932-D, 1943 DDO, and 1976-S Silver Quarter are examples of valuable finds that collectors are always hunting for. Even in circulated condition, some of these coins are worth real money. So next time you check your change, keep an eye out—one of these rare quarters could be sitting in your pocket!

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