People typically see brilliant, perfect coins that have been carefully preserved by collectors when they think of precious coins. However, even old quarters can sometimes hold significant value.
It is not necessary to be a coin expert to find these special coins, as many still remain in everyday circulation. Coins from important years, production mistakes, or remarkable mintmarks can transform an ordinary quarter into a precious coin.
The Special 2019-W and 2020-W West Point Quarters
In 2019 and 2020, the US Mint did something unusual by producing a limited number of special quarters at the West Point Mint and releasing them directly into circulation instead of selling them to collectors. These coins have a tiny “W” mark under the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the front.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter: A First-Year Treasure
The 1932-D Washington quarter is very important because it was made during the first year of the Washington quarter series at the Denver Mint, and only 436,800 of these coins were created. The small “D” symbol above the letters “ER” in the word “QUARTER” on the reverse is visible. It might be worth about $225 even if it appears to be very old and used, and more than $500 if it is in good condition.
The Rare 1932-S Washington Quarter
The San Francisco-made 1932-S quarter is much more difficult to find than the 1932-D. Only 408,000 were made, and today, experts consider 40,000 are still around. It also has a small “S” mark in the same spot as the Denver coin. A 1932-S quarter in better condition could sell for over $360, while one that is extremely damaged may sell for roughly $85.
The 1937-S Washington Quarter: A Good Find
The 1937-S Washington quarter isn’t as rare as the 1932 ones, but it’s still something special to find. Even a very used one could sell for about $8. If the coin is in better shape, it could be worth $100 or even more. A coin that looks almost new might be worth $165 or higher.
The 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with a Special Extra Leaf (Low Variety)
Something interesting happened during the 50 State Quarters program with the 2004-D Wisconsin quarter. The corn on the back of certain coins created an extra little leaf, which called the “Low Leaf” variety, shows the extra leaf pointing down. Even though millions of Wisconsin quarters were made, very few have this special error. The value of a well-maintained Low Leaf coin could range from $38 to $80.
The 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with a Special Extra Leaf (High Variety)
A “High Leaf” version of the 2004-D Wisconsin quarter is also available. The extra leaf in this one is partially covered by the grain and points upward. This version is even harder to find than the Low Leaf one. If the coin is in better condition, it may be worth $75 or more, but a slightly worn coin might sell for about $45.
FAQs
How can I identify the special 2019-W and 2020-W West Point quarters?
Look for a small “W” mintmark under “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the front of the coin.
What makes the 1932-D Washington quarter so valuable?
1932-D Washington quarter is a rare first-year issue with only 436,800 minted at the Denver Mint.
What is special about the 2004-D Wisconsin quarter?
Some have an extra leaf on the corn, called the “Low Leaf” or “High Leaf” variety.