Silver Washington Quarter pieces have long been a cornerstone of American numismatics. First introduced in 1932 to honor George Washington, these 90% silver quarters were minted until 1964, and certain dates, mintmarks, and errors have since become exceptionally desirable among collectors.
Below are ten rare silver Washington Quarters that can command impressive premiums—sometimes reaching thousands of dollars depending on condition and rarity.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D is one of the most coveted key dates in the series.
- Minted in Denver
- Low mintage of approximately 436,800
- Strong demand in all grades
- High-grade examples can bring five-figure prices
This coin is a foundational piece for any serious Washington Quarter collection.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Struck in San Francisco, this issue rivals the 1932-D in rarity.
- Mintage of roughly 408,000
- Difficult to find in uncirculated condition
- Premium values even in worn grades
Collectors often pursue both 1932 branch mint coins as a matched pair.
3. 1936 Doubled Die Obverse
This rare error variety is prized for visible doubling in the date and lettering.
- Strong doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Scarce in higher grades
- Significant premiums compared to regular 1936 issues
Authenticated examples attract competitive bidding at auction.
4. 1937 Doubled Die Obverse
Another dramatic error variety in the early series.
- Noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY”
- Scarcer than many standard-date coins
- Highly desirable among error collectors
Well-preserved specimens can bring substantial profits.
5. 1943-S Doubled Die Obverse
World War II-era quarters are common, but this variety stands apart.
- Visible doubling on obverse inscriptions
- Limited surviving examples
- Rare in mint state grades
Collectors prize this coin for its historical context and error status.
6. 1948-S Washington Quarter
The 1948-S is challenging in high grades.
- Produced in San Francisco
- Weak strikes common
- High-grade coins are scarce
Gem-quality examples often command strong auction results.
7. 1950-D/S Overmintmark
This fascinating mint error occurred when a D mintmark was struck over an S.
- Clear evidence of overpunched mintmark
- Popular among variety specialists
- Premium value compared to standard 1950-D coins
Magnified inspection reveals the underlying S beneath the D.
8. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
While the 1955 doubled die cent is famous, this quarter variety is also collectible.
- Subtle doubling on date and lettering
- Scarcer than typical 1955 quarters
- Increasing collector interest
Certified examples see steady demand.
9. 1964-D Washington Quarter
The final year of 90% silver quarters offers hidden rarity.
- Produced in Denver
- Look for high-grade mint state coins
- Transitional errors exist with unique characteristics
Exceptional condition examples can bring surprising premiums.
10. 1942-S Proof Washington Quarter
Proof quarters from the early 1940s are scarce and elegant.
- Struck with special dies for collectors
- Limited proof mintage
- Strong mirror-like finish
Well-preserved proofs remain highly sought after by advanced collectors.
What Makes These Quarters Valuable?
Several factors determine whether a silver Washington Quarter can bring large profits:
- Low original mintage numbers
- Mintmark location and rarity
- Error varieties such as doubled dies or overmintmarks
- Overall condition and grade
- Original luster and eye appeal
Professional grading by reputable services often increases buyer confidence and resale value.
Final Thoughts
Rare silver Washington Quarters continue to capture the attention of collectors and investors alike. From the key-date 1932 issues to dramatic doubled die varieties, these coins represent a blend of American history, artistry, and scarcity.
If you own pre-1965 quarters, it may be worth examining them carefully—one of these rare pieces could be sitting unnoticed in your collection, potentially worth far more than its face value.
