George Washington’s legacy as the first President of the United States endures as a cornerstone of American history. As a result, his coins frequently serve to honor important milestones and recognize influential individuals. The Washington Quarter has celebrated several significant milestones, including American Women (starting in 2022), the 50 US States (from 1999 to 2008), Washington D.C. and the five US Territories (in 2009), and America’s National Parks (from 2010 to 2021).
Since 1932, the obverse side has featured George Washington, although no quarters were produced in 1933. This coin holds significance for multiple reasons. From a commercial standpoint, it is the most frequently utilized coin in daily transactions. This 25-cent coin, commonly known as a quarter, carries significant symbolic value as well.
While you may not be deeply versed in the world of coin collecting, stories of rare coins fetching exorbitant prices can spark your interest and curiosity. Exploring the realm of valuable coins can be a fascinating journey, delving into the nuances of rarity, type, year, condition, and distinctive errors that can significantly impact a coin’s value. By examining some of the most sought-after quarters and understanding the factors that contribute to their worth, you can gain insight into the intricate world of numismatics.
Let’s embark on a discussion about the broader context of quarters and their significance. Since 1932, the iconic image of George Washington has graced the obverse side of the quarter, with the exception of the year 1933 when no quarters were minted. The quarter holds a special place in everyday transactions as the most commonly used coin, symbolizing value and ubiquity in American commerce.
Exploring the fascinating realm of coin errors sheds light on the intricate processes involved in minting coins. Errors that occur during the minting process, such as using incorrect dies, stamping imperfections, or planchet issues, can lead to unique and valuable coins. Understanding these errors, their causes, and their impact on a coin’s worth provides a deeper appreciation for the art and craftsmanship of coin production.
Let’s take a look at a list of the 16 most valuable quarter errors.
Most Valuable Quarter Errors List
1. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter Extra Leaf Low Business Strike
- Year: 2004
- Series: State Quarters
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Extra Leaf Low
- Grade: MS 67
- Date of Sale: 12th January 2020
- Price: $6,000
2. 1822 Capped Bust Quarter 25/50c Regular Strike
- Year: 1822
- Series: Capped Bust
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Error: Denomination Struck Twice – 25c over 50c
- Grade: MS 66
- Date of Sale: 1st April 2009
- Price: $184,000
3. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter Extra Leaf High Regular Strike
- Year: 2004
- Series: State Quarters
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Extra Leaf High
- Grade: MS 66
- Date of Sale: 7th July 2006
- Price: $2,530
4. 2000-P Maryland Quarter Muled with Sacagawea Dollar
- Year: 2000
- Series: State Quarters
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia
- Error: Mule – Maryland Quarter Obverse with Sacagawea Dollar Reverse
- Grade: MS 67
- Date of Sale: 21st March 2018
- Price: $192,000
5. 1828 Capped Bust Quarter 25/50c Regular Strike
- Year: 1828
- Series: Capped Bust
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Error: Denomination Stamped Twice – 25c over 50c
- Grade: MS 67+
- Date of Sale: 15th November 2013
- Price: $352,500
6. 1918/7-S Overdate Full Head Standing Liberty Quarter
- Year: 1918 over 1917
- Series: Standing Liberty
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Error: Overdate – 1918/7
- Grade: MS 64+ FH
- Date of Sale: 17th September 2020
- Price: $336,000
7. 2009-D District of Columbia DDR Quarter Business Strike
- Year: 2009
- Series: DC and Territories
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Doubled Die Reverse
- Grade: MS 66
- Date of Sale: 10th July 2014
- Price: $3,055
8. 1891 Seated Liberty Quarter MPD Regular Strike
- Year: 1891
- Series: Seated Liberty
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Error: Misplaced Date
- Grade: MS 64
- Date of Sale: 2nd August 2017
- Price: $1,058
9. 1999-P Susan B. Anthony $1 Struck on a 1999 Georgia Quarter
- Year: 1999
- Series: State Quarters
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia
- Error: Wrong Planchet – SBA $1 Struck on a Quarter
- Grade: MS 63
- Date of Sale: January 2009
- Price: $10,925
10. 1983-P Spitting Eagle Type 2 Clad Quarter Business Strike
- Year: 1983
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia
- Error: Die Clash – Spitting Eagle
- Grade: MS 66+
- Date of Sale: 13th March 2018
- Price: $504
11. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (1776-1976) DDO Regular Strike
- Year: 1976
- Series: Bicentennial Quarter
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Doubled Die Obverse
- Grade: MS 66
- Date of Sale: 7th May 2023
- Price: $8,400
12. 1970-D Quarter DDO Type 2 Regular Strike
- Year: 1970
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Doubled Die Obverse
- Grade: MS 65
- Date of Sale: 3rd January 2012
- Price: $2,875
13. 1957-D Misplaced MM Quarter Regular Strike
- Year: 1957
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Misplaced Mint Mark
- Grade: MS 66+
- Date of Sale: 14th July 2021
- Price: $1,860
14. 1990-S Proof Deep Cameo DDO Quarter
- Year: 1990
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Error: Doubled Die Obverse
- Grade: PR 70 DCAM
- Date of Sale: 4th January 2017
- Price: $7,050
15. 1943 DDO Quarter Business Strike
- Year: 1943
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Error: Doubled Die Obverse
- Grade: MS 67
- Date of Sale: 22nd March 2020
- Price: $22,250
16. 1942-D DDR Quarter Regular Strike
- Year: 1942
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Error: Doubled Die Reverse
- Grade: MS 66+
- Date of Sale: 16th November 2012
- Price: $8,225
EXPLORING CURRENCY COLLECTING
Diving into the realm of doubled die errors reveals a captivating aspect of numismatics. These errors, occurring when the second strike from the hub lands slightly off, result in a doubling effect on inscriptions, numerals, or design elements on the coin. Identifying and understanding these doubled die errors, whether on the obverse or reverse side of the coin, offers a glimpse into the meticulous process of coin production and the potential for rare and valuable collectibles.
Mint errors involving planchets present another intriguing facet of coin collecting. From coins minted on incorrect metals to those struck on the wrong size or denomination planchets, these errors add a layer of complexity to the world of numismatics. Distinguishing between different types of mint errors, such as double denominations or clad coins with two-tone appearances, underscores the attention to detail required in identifying and valuing unique coins.
As coins pass through the minting process, intricate details emerge about the production of these small but significant pieces of currency. From the creation of galvanos and master hubs to the striking of planchets with designated designs, each step in the coin production journey contributes to the final product’s uniqueness and value. Understanding the meticulous craftsmanship and potential for errors in this process enhances one’s appreciation for the artistry and history encapsulated in each coin.
Exploring the evolution and intricacies of coin production and errors reveals a rich tapestry of numismatic history. From the significance of dies and their wear patterns to the impact of metal compositions on coin designs, every aspect of coin minting contributes to the diversity and allure of coin collecting. Delving into the world of mint marks, overdates, and re-punched mint marks offers a glimpse into the historical context and technical precision involved in producing coins that transcend mere currency to become artifacts of culture and heritage.
As you delve deeper into the fascinating world of coin collecting, remember that each coin tells a story—a story of craftsmanship, history, and the intricate processes that transform raw materials into tangible symbols of value and identity. Whether exploring the nuances of doubled die errors, mint marks, or rare mint errors, each discovery enriches your understanding and appreciation of coins as more than mere currency but as artifacts that connect us to the past and reflect the artistry and ingenuity of human endeavor.
