The Washington quarter has been a staple of U.S. coinage since 1932. While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, a few rare varieties—sometimes called “ultra quarters”—can be worth thousands of dollars to collectors.
Knowing which ones to look for can turn pocket change into a small fortune. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 4 ultra valuable Washington quarter dollar coins in 2025 and explain why they’re worth so much.
Why Washington Quarters Can Be Valuable
Not every quarter has hidden value, but certain factors can dramatically increase a coin’s price:
- Low Mintages: Fewer coins produced means higher rarity.
- Errors/Varieties: Striking mistakes, like doubled dies, can skyrocket value.
- Condition (Grade): Mint State (MS65 or higher) coins are significantly more valuable than worn examples.
- Historical Significance: First-year issues and special mint marks attract collectors.
The Top 4 Ultra Valuable Washington Quarters
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Why It’s Valuable: This was the first year of the Washington quarter series, and the Denver Mint produced only 436,800 coins.
- Value Range (2025): Circulated examples bring $250–$1,000, while Mint State coins can fetch $20,000+.
- Key Feature: Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse, under the wreath.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- Why It’s Valuable: Another first-year rarity with only 408,000 struck at the San Francisco Mint.
- Value Range (2025): Circulated examples sell for $300–$1,200, while high-grade coins exceed $25,000.
- Key Feature: The “S” mintmark beneath the wreath is the giveaway.
3. 1964-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
- Why It’s Valuable: A striking error shows doubled features on “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.” Error varieties are always in high demand.
- Value Range (2025): Typical coins can bring $300–$1,500, while Mint State examples reach $7,500–$15,000.
- Key Feature: Use a magnifying glass to spot doubling on the obverse lettering.
4. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter (High Leaf & Low Leaf Varieties)
- Why It’s Valuable: This Statehood Quarter design features an extra leaf on the ear of corn, created by a die gouge. Both “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” versions are prized.
- Value Range (2025): Circulated examples sell for $200–$1,500, and pristine Mint State pieces can bring $5,000+.
- Key Feature: Examine the corn husk for the extra leaf below the ear.
Top 4 Ultra Valuable Washington Quarters
| Coin | Year / Variety | Mintage | Value Range (2025) | Key Identifier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D | First-year issue, Denver Mint | 436,800 | $250 – $20,000+ | “D” mintmark under wreath |
| 1932-S | First-year issue, San Francisco Mint | 408,000 | $300 – $25,000+ | “S” mintmark under wreath |
| 1964-D DDO | Doubled Die Obverse | High | $300 – $15,000+ | Doubling on “Liberty” & motto |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf | High Leaf & Low Leaf varieties | Unknown (die error) | $200 – $5,000+ | Extra leaf on corn stalk |
How to Identify a Valuable Quarter
- Check the Date and Mintmark: Key rarities are concentrated in early years (1932-D, 1932-S) and in certain error varieties.
- Inspect Carefully: Look for doubling, extra leaves, or unusual marks that signal an error.
- Condition Matters: Coins graded MS65 or higher by PCGS or NGC bring significantly higher prices.
- Compare with Current Guides: Rare coins fluctuate in value with market demand, so always check updated pricing.
The Market for Rare Quarters in 2025
Coin collecting has grown rapidly, fueled by online marketplaces and increased demand for error coins and low-mintage issues. While not every quarter in your pocket is valuable, these ultra varieties remain favorites for both investors and collectors.
The Washington quarter may seem like just another coin, but certain rare issues—like the 1932-D, 1932-S, 1964-D Doubled Die, and 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf—are worth thousands of dollars in today’s market.
If you pay attention to dates, mintmarks, and errors, you might discover that a coin worth 25 cents to most people is actually a small fortune. Always check your pocket change—you never know when you’ll find an ultra quarter hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters are the rarest by mintage, both under 500,000 coins struck.
Most are common, but the 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf quarters are a major exception, worth hundreds to thousands.
Look for key dates, mintmarks, errors, and condition. Certification by a grading service confirms authenticity and value.