Top 8 Ultra-Rare Washington
Welcome, coin enthusiasts and collectors from around the world 
Today we are diving into an extraordinary journey through the fascinating world of United States quarter dollars, exploring some of the rarest and most valuable examples ever discovered.
These are not just coins.
They are:
- Historical treasures
- Minting miracles
- Investment-grade collectibles
- And in some cases… life-changing assets
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just entering the hobby, this guide will help you identify quarters that are making waves in auctions, private sales, and elite collector circles worldwide.
Let’s begin.
1. Washington 1776–1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $1,000,000+
Why this coin is legendary 
This quarter commemorates the 200th anniversary of American independence, making it one of the most historically symbolic coins ever released for circulation.
Instead of the traditional eagle, the reverse features the famous Colonial Drummer Boy design by Jack L. Ahr – instantly recognizable and deeply patriotic.
It also carries a unique dual date: 1776–1976, something no other regular U.S. quarter has.
Special varieties that command huge prices
Not all Bicentennial quarters are equal. The most valuable include:
40% silver versions- San Francisco (S) mint proof strikes
- Deep cameo proof finishes
- Perfect or near-perfect graded examples (MS/PR-69 & 70)
Step-by-step: How to identify a valuable Bicentennial quarter
- Check for 1776–1976 on the obverse
- Look for the drummer boy on the reverse
- Check the mint mark (S is highly desirable)
- Weigh it (silver versions are heavier)
- Inspect condition – no scratches, strong luster
- Consider professional grading (PCGS / NGC)
Market value 
- High-grade clad versions: surprisingly high
- Silver proofs (deep cameo): extremely strong demand
- Top certified examples: $675,000 to over $1,000,000
Collectors continue to compete aggressively for the finest known examples, and demand is still rising.
2. 1966 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark, Circulated) – Up to $500,000+
Why it matters
This coin was minted during the historic transition from silver to copper-nickel coinage.
From 1965–1967:
- Mint marks were removed
- Silver was eliminated
- Coin shortages reshaped U.S. currency
That makes the 1966 quarter a true monetary transition artifact.
What collectors look for
- No mint mark (Philadelphia issue)
- Strong facial detail on Washington
- Clear eagle feathers
- Natural toning
- Minimal damage
Market value
- Attractive circulated examples: strong premiums
- Exceptional pieces: $220,000 – $500,000+
3. 1968 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark, Extra Fine) – Up to $770,000
1968 marked the return of mint marks, except in Philadelphia.
That means:
No mint mark = Philadelphia strike
Extra Fine survivors are becoming scarce after decades of circulation.
Value drivers
- Sharp hairlines and cheek detail
- Clean eagle feathers
- Original luster
- Minimal surface marks
Market value
- Strong examples: high 3–5 figures
- Exceptional eye-appeal coins: $400,000 – $770,000
4. 1969 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark, Even Dirty) – Up to $220,000
Yes… even dirty or circulated examples can be valuable.
Collectors prize:
- Survivability
- Structural integrity
- Die variations
- Historical context
Market value
- Many examples: $150,000+
- Premium survivors: up to $220,000
Never judge a 1969 quarter by appearance alone.
5. 1967 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark, Fine Condition) – Up to $800,000+
Another product of the no-mint-mark era.
High-grade survivors are extremely limited.
What boosts value
- Clear portrait detail
- Sharp eagle design
- Natural shine
- No harsh cleaning
Market value
- Fine condition: $800,000+ in elite auctions
6. 1970-D Washington Quarter (Circulated) – Up to $400,000
The Denver mint issue with the “D” mint mark.
Despite being circulated, collectors aggressively seek:
- Clean surfaces
- Sharp design
- Natural toning
- Original condition
Market value
- Quality circulated examples: up to $400,000
7. 1978 Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark, Very Good) – Up to $800,000+
Philadelphia strike again.
Coins without mint marks in strong condition are becoming extremely rare.
Market value
- Very good condition: $600,000+
- Near pristine: $800,000+
Collector’s Step-by-Step Strategy
Before selling or buying:
- Never clean your coins
- Use gloves or soft handling
- Check weight & magnetism
- Inspect details carefully
- Store in coin holders
- Track auctions regularly
- Use PCGS or NGC for grading
Final Thoughts
These Washington quarters prove one powerful truth:
Ordinary pocket change can become extraordinary wealth.
From patriotic Bicentennial issues to transitional era rarities, these coins combine:
- History
- Art
- Scarcity
- And financial power
Check your change.
Search your old collections.
Look through family jars.
Your next quarter could be worth more than a house.
