Exploring the 11 Most Valuable Modern Quarters to Look For: For coin collectors, modern quarters offer a fascinating mix of history, rarity, and potential value. While older coins typically steal the spotlight, some modern quarters have become highly sought after due to minting errors, limited production, and unique design features. If you are a collector or simply curious about the coins in your pocket, here are the 11 most valuable modern quarters to look for:
Table of Contents
- 1 1965 Silver Quarter – $7,000+
- 2 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter – $30,000+
- 3 1983-P Washington Quarter – $1,000+
- 4 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter – $500+
- 5 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter – $1,500+
- 6 2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter – $500+
- 7 1966 Quarter – $3,000+
- 8 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – $4,000+
- 9 1995 Washington Quarter – $3,500+
- 10 2000-P South Carolina Quarter – $1,000+
- 11 2019-W Lowell Quarter – $1,500+
- 12 Conclusion
1965 Silver Quarter – $7,000+
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver quarters to copper-nickel-clad versions. However, a few 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets meant for 1964 coins. These error coins are rare and have fetched over $7,000 at auction. To verify authenticity, weigh the coin—silver quarters weigh approximately 6.25 grams, while clad quarters weigh around 5.67 grams.
Also Read: The 15 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dimes: A Collector’s Guide to Rare Treasures
1970-S Proof Washington Quarter – $30,000+
One of the most unique error coins, the 1970-S proof quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian silver quarter. This error is particularly valuable due to its distinct composition and historical mix-up. It has sold for over $30,000, with collectors eager to find more examples of this minting mishap.
1983-P Washington Quarter – $1,000+
Because the U.S. Mint did not release official mint sets in 1983, high-quality examples of this quarter are rare. This scarcity has increased its value, with uncirculated specimens commanding $1,000 or more. Collectors often seek out well-struck examples with minimal wear.
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter – $500+
This quarter from the State Quarters series features a well-known die crack error that makes it look like the horse, Caesar Rodney’s mount, is “spitting.” This error occurred due to a small break in the die during the minting process, creating a raised line from the horse’s mouth. Collectors prize this error, with high-grade versions valued at $500+.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter – $1,500+
A minting error created two variations: the “high leaf” and “low leaf” Wisconsin quarter. These variations were caused by accidental modifications to the coin dies. These rare varieties have sold for over $1,500 each in top condition, making them some of the most sought-after state quarters.
2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter – $500+
The 2005 Minnesota quarter features a doubled die error that results in noticeable doubling of the trees in the background. This minting mistake was caused by the die shifting slightly between strikes. Well-preserved specimens can be worth $500 or more, particularly those with clear doubling visible to the naked eye.
Also Read: Exploring the 10 Most Valuable Wheat Penny Errors
1966 Quarter – $3,000+
Special Mint Set (SMS) 1966 quarters missing the designer Frank Gasparro’s “FG” initials on the reverse are rare. This error is due to over-polishing of the die before striking the coins. These pieces can be worth over $3,000, with the value depending on condition and authentication.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter – $4,000+
Special 40% silver Bicentennial quarters were issued in collector’s sets. While many were saved, high-grade proof and mint-state examples have sold for over $4,000. These quarters feature the unique dual-date (1776-1976) and the drummer boy reverse, making them popular among collectors.
1995 Washington Quarter – $3,500+
A rare doubled die obverse error makes the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear doubled. This type of error occurs when the coin’s design is accidentally struck twice slightly out of alignment. High-grade examples can fetch $3,500+, and the demand continues to rise among error coin collectors.
2000-P South Carolina Quarter – $1,000+
A misaligned strike created a major off-center error in some South Carolina quarters, resulting in an incomplete design with large blank areas. The degree of off-centering impacts the value, with more extreme misalignments worth $1,000 or more. Coins with visible dates and mintmarks are generally more valuable.
Also Read: Unveiling the 9 Most Expensive Gold Coins
2019-W Lowell Quarter – $1,500+
The U.S. Mint released 2019-W (West Point) quarters in limited numbers to encourage coin collecting. These quarters were mixed into circulation rather than sold in sets, making them difficult to find. The Lowell quarter, one of five designs from 2019, has sold for $1,500+ in mint condition due to its rarity and the “W” mint mark.
Conclusion
Modern quarters may seem ordinary, but some are rare and valuable due to errors, unique designs, and limited production. Checking your pocket change might lead to an exciting discovery worth thousands. Whether you’re an avid numismatist or a casual collector, these 11 modern quarters are worth looking out for! Keep an eye on coin auctions, grading services, and roll-hunting opportunities to find these hidden treasures.
