In the world of U.S. coin collecting, Washington quarters may seem common-but a few exceptional examples have stunned collectors by selling for thousands of dollars at auction. Condition rarity, dramatic mint errors, and elite PCGS grades can turn a 25-cent coin into a five-figure treasure.
In this article, we explore four ultra-rare Washington quarters that achieved record prices at Heritage Auctions-and explain exactly why they are so valuable.
Four Remarkable Washington Quarters That Commanded Premium Prices
These four examples demonstrate different paths to numismatic value: mint errors, condition rarity, and popular varieties. Each has a unique story that explains its exceptional worth.
1990-S Proof Washington Quarter – Double Die Obverse
A Perfect PR70 Deep Cameo with Dramatic Doubling
This extraordinary 1990-S Proof Washington Quarter features strong doubling on the date and mintmark. a clear indicator of a Double Die Obverse. Graded a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo, the coin displays flawless mirrored fields and razor-sharp contrast.
Despite its silvery appearance, this issue is not silver. What makes it truly special is its rarity-only two examples have been reported by PCGS in this condition. Proof coins with dramatic doubling errors are highly prized by both error collectors and condition specialists.
Sold for: $7,050
Grade: PR70 Deep Cameo (PCGS)
Auction Date: 2017
Auction House: Heritage Auctions
Key Factor: Double Die Obverse error with perfect proof grade
1982-P Washington Quarter – MS68 Condition Rarity
Legendary Condition Rarity with Minimal Surviving Examples
The 1982-P Washington Quarter is a legendary condition rarity. Only two coins have been certified by PCGS at the MS68 level. Its radiant pearl-gray surfaces are nearly flawless, with subtle powder-blue and tan toning adding depth and eye appeal.
This coin proves that condition alone can create enormous value, even without a major mint error. In modern coinage, achieving such a high grade requires exceptional preservation from the moment of minting, making these coins extraordinary finds for registry set collectors.
Sold for: $10,200
Grade: Mint State 68 (PCGS)
Auction Date: June 7, 2019
Auction House: Heritage Auctions
Key Factor: Extreme condition rarity with only 2 examples known at this grade
1971 Washington Quarter – Double Die Reverse (FS-801)
Extremely Rare FS-801 Variety with Dramatic Doubling
This 1971 Washington Quarter is an extremely rare FS-801 Double Die Reverse variety. All reverse legends show strong counter-clockwise doubling, a feature highly sought after by error-coin collectors.
The coin remains lustrous and unabraded, with light golden-brown toning. A small spot above Washington’s jaw is noted, but it does little to detract from the coin’s rarity. The FS-801 designation indicates it’s a recognized and cataloged variety by experts, adding to its collectibility.
Sold for: $8,812.50
Variety: Double Die Reverse (FS-801)
Auction Date: February 16, 2017
Auction House: Heritage Auctions
Key Factor: Recognized FS-801 variety with dramatic doubling error
1950 Washington Quarter – D Over S Variety
Famous Cherrypickers’ Variety with Visible Mintmark Error
The 1950 D over S Washington Quarter is one of the most famous Cherrypickers’ varieties. The underlying S mintmark is clearly visible beneath the D, especially along the curve at the top left.
Graded MS67, this coin boasts brilliant silvery surfaces, exceptional luster, and a sharp strike-qualities demanded at this elite grade level. The D over S variety occurs when a Denver mintmark is punched over a San Francisco mintmark, creating a highly collectible error that’s visible without magnification.
Sold for: $29,375
Grade: Mint State 67 (PCGS)
Auction Date: June 6, 2013
Auction House: Heritage Auctions
Key Factor: Iconic D over S variety in exceptional condition
Conclusion: What Makes These Washington Quarters So Valuable?
These remarkable Washington quarters prove that rare varieties, top-tier grades, and exceptional eye appeal can transform everyday coins into major investments. Several key factors contribute to their high values:
1. Condition Rarity
Coins like the 1982-P MS68 demonstrate that exceptional preservation alone can command premium prices. In modern mintages, finding coins that have survived without any marks or abrasions is exceedingly rare.
2. Mint Errors
Double die strikes and mintmark overprints create unique coins that error collectors passionately pursue. These mistakes at the mint become valuable treasures in the collector market.
3. Certification and Grading
PCGS and NGC certifications provide authenticity and grade assurance, which is essential for high-value transactions. Top-tier grades (PR70, MS68, etc.) represent perfection or near-perfection in coin preservation.
4. Market Recognition
Established varieties like FS-801 or D over S have documented recognition in numismatic literature, creating established collector demand.
Whether you’re searching through pocket change or building a high-end collection, knowledge is the key to spotting the next hidden treasure. Understanding these factors can help both novice and experienced collectors identify potentially valuable coins in their collections.
Remember: While these examples sold for thousands, most Washington quarters are worth face value.
True numismatic value requires a combination of rarity, condition, and collector demand.
