Do You Own This Rare Quarter Worth Up To $95,000?:- Owning a rare coin can feel like holding a piece of history in your hand, but when that coin could be worth up to $95,000, it’s even more thrilling.
Do You Own This Rare Quarter Worth Up To $95,000?
The 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters, minted in Denver and San Francisco, are two such coins that have captivated collectors and investors for decades.
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Their rarity and value make them highly sought-after among numismatists, with high-grade examples of these quarters fetching tens of thousands of dollars in auctions and private sales.
If you’re wondering whether you have one of these valuable quarters in your collection—or are just curious about what makes them so valuable—let’s dive into what these quarters are, why they’re worth so much, and how to identify them.
1. The Origins and Historical Significance of the Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth.
Initially intended as a one-year commemorative coin, its popularity led to continued production, with Washington’s profile on the obverse of the quarter becoming a fixture in American coinage.
The coin was designed by sculptor John Flanagan, whose rendition of Washington is still featured on quarters today (though with some design modifications over the years).
In 1932, quarters were minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. While the Philadelphia mint produced a large quantity, the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints produced a significantly smaller number, with only 436,800 and 408,000 quarters respectively.
These low mintages made the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters scarce right from the beginning, and over the years, the supply of these coins has only diminished as collectors and the passage of time have reduced their numbers.
2. Why Are the 1932-D and 1932-S Quarters So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the high value of the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters. The key factors include:
- Low Mintage: The Denver and San Francisco mints only produced a fraction of the number of quarters compared to the Philadelphia mint. The limited production of these coins makes them rare, particularly in high-grade, uncirculated condition.
- Historical Significance: These are the first quarters to feature George Washington, commemorating a pivotal American figure. This historical importance makes them more desirable among collectors.
- High Demand Among Collectors: The Washington quarter series is widely collected, and the 1932-D and 1932-S issues are recognized as key dates. A key date is a coin that is either the first, last, or one of the hardest to find in a series, and collectors will pay a premium to complete their collections.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades (MS65 and above) are much rarer and command the highest prices. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) use a grading scale that goes up to 70, and coins in grades of 65 or higher are considered highly collectible.
With all these factors combined, it’s no wonder that a high-grade 1932-D or 1932-S Washington quarter could be worth anywhere from tens of thousands to $95,000.
3. How to Identify the 1932-D and 1932-S Quarters
Identifying whether you have one of these rare quarters is relatively straightforward. Here’s what to look for:
- Obverse Design: Look for George Washington’s profile on the front, along with the inscription “Liberty” and the date “1932” below Washington’s chin.
- Mint Mark Location: On the reverse of the coin, under the eagle’s tail feathers, you’ll find the mint mark. A “D” indicates the coin was minted in Denver, while an “S” indicates San Francisco.
- If there is no mint mark, the coin was minted in Philadelphia, and while 1932 Philadelphia quarters are collectible, they are not nearly as valuable as their Denver and San Francisco counterparts.
- Condition and Grading: If you believe you have a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter, its value will be influenced greatly by its condition. Coins with minimal wear and no significant scratches or blemishes are more valuable.
- To get an accurate assessment, consider having the coin graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC, as professional grading adds value and guarantees authenticity.
4. Notable Auction Sales and Market Value
Over the years, 1932-D and 1932-S quarters in excellent condition have fetched impressive prices at auction. Some of the most notable sales include:
- A 1932-D quarter graded MS66 by PCGS sold for over $90,000 at a Heritage Auction, underscoring the high demand for top-quality specimens.
- In another sale, a 1932-S quarter graded MS65 reached around $80,000, which is a testament to the scarcity of high-grade examples.
The rarity of these coins, coupled with their historical importance, has made them a sound investment for collectors, with prices continuing to rise over time.
5. Investment Potential of Rare Quarters
Rare quarters like the 1932-D and 1932-S are more than just collectibles; they’re also viewed as investment opportunities. Unlike some forms of investment, rare coins tend to retain value over time and, in many cases, appreciate.
However, like any investment, there are risks involved, such as market fluctuations or the difficulty of liquidating a rare coin collection. For long-term collectors, however, the historical significance and rarity make these quarters appealing.
FAQs About the Rare Washington Quarter
Q1: How much is a 1932-D or 1932-S Washington quarter worth today?
The value depends on the coin’s condition. Coins in worn condition may be worth a few hundred dollars, while high-grade, professionally graded coins can be worth anywhere from $20,000 to $95,000.
Q2: How can I tell if I have a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter?
Check the reverse side of the coin, just below the eagle’s tail feathers. A “D” or “S” will indicate the mint, corresponding to Denver and San Francisco, respectively. The date “1932” should be on the obverse below George Washington’s profile.
Q3: What makes these quarters so valuable compared to other Washington quarters?
The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters have a much lower mintage than other Washington quarters, making them rare. Their historical significance as the first Washington quarters also adds to their desirability, especially among serious collectors.
Q4: How should I handle a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter if I find one?
Handle the coin carefully by the edges to avoid adding fingerprints or scratches, which could lower its value. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can also reduce its worth. If you believe the coin is valuable, consider having it graded by PCGS or NGC to determine its condition and authenticity.
Q5: Where can I sell a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter if I own one?
Rare coin dealers, major auction houses (like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers), or reputable online marketplaces are good options for selling rare coins. For high-grade coins, an auction may yield the best price due to competitive bidding among collectors.
Q6: Is it common to find one of these quarters in circulation?
No, finding a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter in circulation today is extremely unlikely. Most of these coins are already in private collections or have been graded and preserved. However, some coins occasionally turn up in estates or old coin collections.
Q7: How much does it cost to have a coin graded?
The cost of grading depends on the service and the coin’s potential value. Basic grading services start at around $30, but for high-value coins like the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters, fees can increase based on the coin’s potential value and turnaround time. Check PCGS or NGC for detailed pricing.
Q8: Can a counterfeit 1932-D or 1932-S quarter exist?
Yes, counterfeits exist. Some counterfeiters may add a fake “D” or “S” to a Philadelphia-minted 1932 quarter to create a counterfeit. For this reason, it’s advisable to have any potential 1932-D or 1932-S quarter authenticated by a professional grading service.
Conclusion
The 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters are iconic pieces of American coinage with immense value, both historically and financially. Owning one of these rare quarters, particularly in high-grade condition, can be a source of pride and potential profit for collectors.
If you think you may own one of these quarters, take care to verify its authenticity and condition, as this will greatly impact its value.
With the right care and knowledge, a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter can be a rewarding addition to any coin collection—or even a ticket to a sizeable investment return.
