Quarters That Could Make You Rich
Quarter dollar coins are everywhere, from vending machines to change jars, but some are worth way more than 25 cents. Expert numismatist Sarah Thompson, with over 20 years of experience, recently shared her list of the top 10 most valuable U.S. quarters at a 2025 coin convention, according to FS USA News. These coins, due to rarity, errors, or historical value, have sold for thousands or even millions at auctions. Thompson’s insights have sparked a wave of excitement, encouraging people to check their pockets for hidden treasures.
Early Quarters Top the List
The oldest quarters often fetch the highest prices. The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, the first U.S. quarter ever made, is a collector’s gem with only a few hundred surviving. One sold for $1.74 million in 2022, says CoinValueChecker. The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is another rare find, with just 6,738 minted. It brought $1.74 million at a 2022 auction. These early coins, featuring Lady Liberty and an eagle, are prized for their scarcity and historical importance, making them top picks for collectors.
| Coin | Mintage | Top Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | ~6,146 | $1.74M (2022) |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 6,738 | $1.74M (2022) |
Washington Quarters with Big Value
Washington Quarters, starting in 1932, include some of the most valuable modern coins. The 1932-D, with a mintage of just 436,800, sold for $3.2 million in 2025, per PCGS. The 1932-S, even rarer at 408,000, fetched $75,000 recently. Both are from the first year of the Washington series, making them highly sought after. Thompson notes that their low mintage and crisp condition drive their value, especially in grades like MS-66 or higher.
Error Coins That Stand Out
Minting errors can turn ordinary quarters into treasures. The 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter with an extra leaf on the corn stalk sold for $6,000 in 2020, according to Bullion Shark. The 2005-P Minnesota Quarter, with a doubled die error showing extra trees, can fetch up to $100. Thompson says errors like these, along with coins struck on wrong planchets, like a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter on a dime, which sold for $9,200 in 2020, are exciting finds for collectors.
| Feature to Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Mint Mark | “D” or “S” for 1932 coins |
| Errors | Extra leaf, doubled die |
Silver Quarters and Proofs
Silver quarters, especially those minted before 1965, hold extra value due to their 90% silver content. The 1964-D Washington Quarter sold for $38,400 in 2021, says Yahoo Finance. Proof coins, like the 1942 Washington Quarter, struck for collectors with a mirror-like finish, sold for $16,800. Thompson advises checking for the “S” mint mark on pre-1965 quarters or proof coins, as these often carry higher value due to limited production and pristine condition.
Tips to Find Valuable Quarters
Thompson offers simple advice for spotting valuable quarters. Check the date and mint mark, usually near Washington’s head or under the eagle. Look for errors like doubled text or extra design elements using a magnifying glass. Keep coins in plastic holders to protect them, and never clean them, as it lowers value. Take potential finds to a coin shop or grading service like PCGS for appraisal. While million-dollar coins are rare, Thompson says quarters worth hundreds or thousands could be hiding in your change, making the hunt worthwhile.