These Two Quarters May Be Worth $144,000

Introduction

Quarters are perhaps one of the most widely distributed coins in the United States. They are often overlooked as every day pocket change. However, some rare quarters are highly valuable to collectors and could be worth up to $144,000. That is because their value could come from a combination of its rarity, minting error, historical significance, and great condition. This article looks at two specific quarters that have attracted numismatic interest, narrating their uniqueness, history, and how to spot them. Additionally, answers to five frequently asked questions about valuable quarters shall be provided here.

The Two Quarters Worth $144,000

1. The 1932-D Washington Quarter
   The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birthday. Only a few hundred examples of these coins were produced at the Denver Mint (“D”), but their value has skyrocketed over time due to their scarcity and grade. The highest grades of the 1932-D quarter, graded MS-66 or higher, sell for as much as $144,000 at auction.

Date: 1932
Mintmark: “D” on the back below the wreath.
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
Rarity: Tiny mintage of about 436,800 pieces.

2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
   Like the 1932-D, the San Francisco Mint (“S”) only minted a small quantity of Washington quarters in 1932. As well, the 1932-S is just as coveted for its low mintage and historical importance. They can bring upwards of $144,000 when discovered in MS-66 or better grades, uncirculated.

Key Features

Date: 1932
Mintmark: “S” on the reverse below the wreath.
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
Rarity: Estimated mintage about 408,000 coins.
Why Are These Quarters So Valuable?
Some of the reasons why the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters are valuable include the following:

1. Low Mintage
   The Denver and San Francisco mints of 1932 produced fewer quantities than in other years. The low quantity made these coins hard to find and, therefore, sought after.
2. Historic Value
   This first-year-of-issue 1932 Washington quarter commemorates the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. Its collectibility is augmented by its historical significance.
3. Grade
   The grade of the coin establishes a good deal of its value. Coins that have been graded MS-66 or higher, meaning they are nearly flawless with no indication of ever having been circulated, are extremely rare and bring a premium price.
4. Collector Demand
   Perhaps no run of U.S. coins is as popular with collectors as the Washington quarter. Important and quality examples in the series bring top dollars.
5. Auction Sales
   Recent auction sales have established high-dollar records for these quarters. A 1932-D or 1932-S Washington quarter graded MS-66 has brought more than $140,000 at major numismatic auctions.

How to Find Valuable Quarters

In case you suspect you have one of these precious quarters, here’s how to identify them:

1. Date and Mintmark
   Look on the coin’s obverse side for the year 1932.
   Flip the coin to check the mintmark (“D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco) on the backside, just below the eagle’s tail feathers.
2. Condition
   Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition are much more valuable.
   Inspect it with a loupe to look for scratches, wear, or marks.
3. Analyze the Composition
   The early 1932 quarters are composed of 90% silver. You can weigh the coin or use a silver test to be sure about the coin’s composition.
4. Have the Coin Graded
   Have your coin authenticated and graded by a professional service, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service, or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. A grade like MS-65 or MS-66 adds a lot to the value of a coin.
5. Auction Results Research
   Look up previous auction results in order to get an idea of the price at which the market will set your coin for its grade and condition
   Rare Quarters Preservation
   If you own a potentially valuable quarter, proper preservation is essential to maintain its worth:

Handle Carefully: Always hold the coin by its edges to avoid fingerprints or damage.
Store Securely: Use a coin holder, album, or airtight case to protect it from environmental damage.
Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning a rare coin can reduce its value. Leave it in its original condition.
Insure High-Value Coins: If your coin is worth thousands, consider insuring it for added protection.
How to Find These Rare Quarters
While chances are low that any 1932-D or 1932-S quarter has survived to circulate today, it is not impossible. Here are a few ways to find one:

Check Loose Change: Inspect your quarters carefully when receiving change.
Search Estate Sales: Rare coins often surface at estate sales or auctions where old collections are sold.
Visit Coin Dealers: Serious dealers will have these coins in inventory to sell or trade.
Join Coin Collecting Groups: Networking can generate leads for scarce coins.

Conclusion

The 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters are perhaps the ultimate examples of how an ordinary coin could turn out to be rare and very valuable. At $144,000, these coins are the historic perfect blend of rare quality, combined with collector demand. Whether you are an experienced numismatist or just a casual collector, the thrill of finding a treasure like one of these in your pocket change is always exciting. You can keep your eyes peeled and maybe strike gold or silver in pocket change.