Collecting quarters from the 20th century is not only a fascinating hobby but can also be a lucrative one. Over the years, certain quarters have become highly sought after due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors, often fetching thousands of dollars from collectors. Below, we’ll explore some of the most valuable quarters minted in the 20th century, with some coins valued at tens of thousands of dollars.
10 Most Valuable 20th Century Quarters
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest in the series, with only 436,800 coins minted. Its low mintage, especially from the Denver Mint, makes it highly prized. In mint condition (graded MS65), the coin’s value can reach an impressive $143,750, making it a top target for collectors seeking high-value pieces.
2. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is a key date for collectors due to its limited production of just 52,000 coins. As the first year of the Standing Liberty design, it is highly desirable, and coins in uncirculated condition can sell for as much as $25,000. This quarter’s rarity and historical significance contribute significantly to its high value.
3. 1913-S Barber Quarter
With a mintage of only 40,000, the 1913-S Barber Quarter is one of the scarcest quarters from the early 20th century. Even coins that show considerable wear can fetch around $1,550, while well-preserved examples are worth significantly more. The limited number of surviving coins drives up its value, making it a prized item in any collection.
4. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another highly coveted coin with only 72,664 pieces produced. A specimen in Good-4 condition, which is heavily worn, can still be worth at least $4,000. Superior quality examples in higher grades can command substantially higher prices, making this coin a valuable addition to a collector’s portfolio.
5. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter has the lowest mintage in the entire series, with just 396,000 coins produced. Its scarcity adds to its value, and even circulated coins can be valuable. In mint-state condition, the coin can reach prices as high as $10,000.
6. 1943 Washington Quarter (Double Die Error)
The 1943 Washington Quarter features a notable minting error with a double die on the inscriptions “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.” Depending on the coin’s condition, this error can significantly increase its value, with prices ranging from $142 to as much as $17,400 for specimens in near-perfect condition.
7. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
This quarter features an interesting minting anomaly, where the “D” mint mark was struck over an “S” mint mark. The unusual “D/S” designation makes it a favorite among error coin collectors. In immaculate, uncirculated condition, the coin can fetch as much as $29,375.
8. 1962-D Washington Quarter
While not inherently rare due to its high mintage, the 1962-D Washington Quarter becomes valuable when found in perfect, uncirculated condition. Coins with flawless detail and no signs of wear can reach prices up to $18,400, making this a surprising but lucrative find for collectors.
9. 1937 Washington Quarter (Double Die Error)
Another valuable error coin is the 1937 Washington Quarter, which features a double die error on the date and the words “In God We Trust.” The rarity of this minting flaw adds significant value, with auction prices reaching as high as $21,150 for coins in premium condition.
10. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
Although it’s a modern quarter, the 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter is highly valuable due to a minting error that includes an extra leaf on the corn stalk design. Depending on whether the extra leaf is high or low, uncirculated examples of this coin can sell for between $1,000 and $6,000.
| Quarter | Year | Mint | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Denver | Low mintage | $143,750 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | Philadelphia | Low mintage | $25,000 |
| 1913-S Barber Quarter | 1913 | San Francisco | Low mintage | $1,550+ |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | 1901 | San Francisco | Low mintage | $4,000+ |
| 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter | 1927 | San Francisco | Lowest mintage in series | $10,000 |
| 1943 Washington Quarter (Double Die) | 1943 | Philadelphia | Double die error | $17,400 |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | 1950 | Denver/SF | D over S mint mark error | $29,375 |
| 1962-D Washington Quarter | 1962 | Denver | High-grade mint state | $18,400 |
| 1937 Washington Quarter (Double Die) | 1937 | Philadelphia | Double die error | $21,150 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf) | 2004 | Denver | Extra leaf on corn stalk error | $1,000 – $6,000 |
Collecting quarters from the 20th century can be both rewarding and exciting, offering opportunities to find coins that are significantly more valuable than their face value. Whether looking for rare minting errors or low-mintage coins, these quarters hold a special place for collectors.
Why are certain quarters worth more than others?
Certain quarters are more valuable due to factors like low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance. Coins in better condition, especially uncirculated ones, tend to be worth more.
What is a minting error?
A minting error occurs when a coin is struck incorrectly during production, resulting in unique variations like doubled dies, overstrikes, or extra design elements, which often make the coin more valuable.
How can I determine the value of my quarter?
The value of a quarter depends on factors such as its condition, rarity, and any unique features like minting errors. Consulting a coin appraisal expert or using a professional grading service can help determine its worth.
