Coin collecting is an exciting hobby, especially when it comes to discovering rare and valuable quarters from the past. Over the years, certain quarters have become highly sought after by collectors, and some can be worth a significant amount of money. In this blog, we’ll dive into five rare quarters from more than 20 years ago that have appreciated in value, making them prized possessions for any serious numismatist.
From historic coins with unique minting errors to limited-issue designs, these quarters are more than just pocket change—they are valuable pieces of American history. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just getting started, understanding which quarters hold the most value can make a huge difference in your collection. Keep reading to discover these rare treasures and learn how much they could be worth today.
1. 1932 Washington Quarter
The 1932 Washington Quarter is one of the most sought-after quarters by collectors, especially those in excellent condition. Produced to commemorate the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth, this coin marks the first year the Washington design was used.
It is estimated that over 24 million 1932 quarters were struck, but many were circulated heavily, making high-quality examples rare. The coin is valuable, particularly in mint state or uncirculated conditions, where it can fetch prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, or more, depending on the grade.
Additionally, a rare variety exists known as the 1932-D, minted in Denver, which has a smaller mintage, making it even more valuable to collectors. This quarter has become a cornerstone of any serious U.S. coin collection due to its historical significance and scarcity.
2. 1943 Silver Quarter
The 1943 Silver Quarter is another key rarity in the world of coin collecting, especially given that it was minted during World War II. During this time, the U.S. government made a special decision to use silver for certain coins due to the need for nickel and other metals for the war effort.
While the 1943 silver quarters are common in the sense that they were circulated heavily, coins in mint or near-mint condition are extremely rare. Collectors pay a premium for coins in such conditions, with prices ranging from $100 to upwards of $10,000 depending on the grade and mintmark.
The high silver content and historical context of the 1943 quarter make it an attractive piece for collectors looking to acquire a tangible reminder of wartime America.
3. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Special 90% Silver)
Although the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is not technically a quarter, it’s worth mentioning in the same breath due to its similarity in terms of rarity and high value. The 1964 issue is unique because it was struck with 90% silver, which was the last year the U.S. Mint produced silver half dollars for circulation.
Although millions of these coins were minted, most were either lost in circulation or hoarded, making well-preserved examples highly valuable today. Minted in such large quantities, it is not rare in itself, but the coins that have been preserved in pristine condition—especially uncirculated pieces—can reach values of up to $10,000 or more, with some varieties fetching higher prices due to special minting conditions or minor design flaws.
4. 1970-S Proof Quarter
The 1970-S Proof Quarter is another rare find, largely because it was part of the 1970 proof set and has a much lower mintage compared to standard quarters of that year. Unlike regular circulation coins, proof coins are specially minted with a polished die and are intended for collectors.
In 1970, only a small number of proof sets were made available to the public, which makes the 1970-S proof quarter rare, especially in uncirculated or pristine condition. Depending on the quality of the coin, its value can vary dramatically, ranging from $50 to $200 for typical examples, but rare versions can command prices upwards of $1,000 for those with higher grades.
5. 1999 Statehood Quarters (Especially Delaware and Connecticut)
The 1999 Statehood Quarters marked the beginning of the U.S. Mint’s 50-State Quarter Program, and while many of these coins are still common, certain states, such as Delaware and Connecticut, are more valuable due to errors during minting and the limited number of uncirculated coins that were saved.
The Delaware quarter, for example, had a unique mistake where a portion of the die was damaged, leading to certain quarters having a distinctive doubling effect. Coins with this error can fetch thousands of dollars in auctions, while standard 1999 quarters can still see a value increase of up to $200 or more, especially those in pristine or uncirculated condition.
This particular series is also highly collectible due to the sheer number of collectors who pursued completing their sets, adding to the coin’s historical significance and appeal.
Bottom Line
While many quarters may circulate in everyday transactions, some rare quarters from the past 20 years have appreciated in value. Whether due to minting errors, historical significance, or limited production runs, these coins are highly sought after by collectors.
Coins like the 1932 Washington Quarter and the 1999 Statehood Quarters can fetch substantial prices in the right condition. If you happen to have any of these rare quarters, it could be time to get them appraised. Always remember to handle valuable coins with care to preserve their worth for future generations.
FAQs
What makes a quarter rare and valuable?
Quarters become valuable due to factors like minting errors, low production numbers, or historical significance. Coins in excellent condition or with unique features can also significantly increase in value.
How can I find out if my quarters are valuable?
To determine the value of your quarters, check their mint year, condition, and any potential minting errors. Consulting with a professional appraiser or using a coin valuation guide can help.
Are all 1999 Statehood Quarters worth a lot?
Not all 1999 Statehood Quarters are valuable, but certain ones—especially those with minting errors or in pristine condition—can be worth significantly more than their face value.
Where can I sell rare quarters?
Rare quarters can be sold to coin dealers, at auctions, or through online platforms that specialize in numismatics. It’s recommended to get coins appraised before selling to ensure you’re getting a fair price.