Rare U.S. quarters, including some minted in 1967, can now be worth over $35,000, depending on unique errors, mint marks, and material composition. Whether you have an old 25 cent coin tucked away or you regularly check your pocket change, identifying rare quarters like a 1967 quarter, a 1964 silver quarter, or even special coins like the Bessie Coleman quarter could lead to a significant payday.
Here’s a detailed guide on the most valuable quarters, how to check if you own one, and how to sell them for the best price.
Why Are Some Quarters Worth Thousands?
While a typical quarter dollar is only worth 25 cents, rare variations are highly sought after by collectors and investors. Factors that drive the value include:
- Minting Errors: Double dies, off-center strikes, missing mint marks, and overstruck designs add value.
- Limited Mintages: Some quarters like the 1974 quarter or the 1967 quarter no mint mark versions are rarer than others.
- Silver Composition: Coins from before 1965, like the 1964 quarter or 1962 quarter, were made of 90% silver, making them far more valuable than modern us coin quarter dollar issues.
- Special Editions: Recent releases like the Harriet Tubman quarter, Maya Angelou quarter, and the Wilma Mankiller quarter have collectible variants and minting errors that increase their worth.
- High-Grade Condition: Quarters graded MS68+ by PCGS or NGC often sell for premium prices.
- Historical and Cultural Significance: Coins like the 2022 quarter error series or the Bessie Coleman quarter worth headlines can drive collector interest.
Most Valuable Quarters to Watch For
Here’s a breakdown of modern quarters commanding the highest prices today:
1. 1970-S Quarter Overstruck on 1941 Canadian Quarter
Value: Over $35,000
One of the rarest finds, this quarter features overlapping designs from two different countries. Scarcity and the fascinating production error make it incredibly valuable.
2. 1965-1967 Transitional Error Quarters
Value: $7,000–$12,000
After 1964, the U.S. Mint shifted from silver to copper-nickel coins. However, a few 1965, 1966, and 1967 quarters were accidentally struck on silver blanks. A 1967 quarter worth checking could weigh around 6.25 grams (like a silver coin) instead of the regular 5.67 grams. These are major finds if authenticated.
3. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
Value: $2,000–$6,000
These state quarters were minted with a visible extra leaf on the corn stalk, either a “high” or “low” variant. Sharp-eyed collectors hunt these aggressively.
4. 1999-S Delaware Proof Quarter (Deep Cameo)
Value: $4,000–$5,000
Proof quarters like this 1999 quarter feature deep mirror finishes and flawless designs. Their rarity and pristine condition make them incredibly valuable in auctions.
5. 2000-P South Carolina Off-Center Strike Quarter
Value: $1,000–$3,000
Off-center strikes, especially on important coins like the 2000 quarter, are highly collectible. Coins with clear date and mint marks despite the error are prized higher.
How to Tell If Your Quarter is Valuable
Finding a rare quarter isn’t about luck alone—it’s about knowing what signs to look for:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark: Years like 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1978, 1981, 1982, and 1999 could have valuable editions.
- Look for Mint Errors: Doubled images, missing mint marks, strange textures, or off-center designs increase value.
- Weigh the Coin: Silver quarters weigh about 6.25 grams. A 1967 quarter with a silver composition would be heavier than typical.
- Use a Magnifying Glass: Tiny errors or unique die features can mean a big difference.
- Consider Getting It Graded: Professional services like PCGS or NGC can verify authenticity and value.
Tip: Avoid cleaning any old quarter coin—this can damage its surface and reduce its worth.
Where to Sell Rare Quarters
Once you spot a valuable coin, selling it at the right place can maximize your earnings:
- eBay: Great for reaching global buyers for coins like the 1978 quarter, 1972 quarter, and 1788 quarter value collectibles.
- Local Coin Shops: Coin dealers often offer fair prices for coins like 1966 quarter worth ones or rare quarter coins.
- Auction Houses: Specialized auctions through Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers can fetch top dollar for rare coins.
- Grading Services: Having your coin graded boosts buyer confidence—and value.
- Online Collector Forums: Places like CoinTalk allow you to interact with serious collectors.
- Coin Shows: Events attract competitive buyers looking for coins like rare gold quarter editions or unusual finds like the tiny quarter.
Rare quarters—whether it’s a 1967 quarter, a 1974 quarter, a unique Wilma Mankiller quarter, or even quarter dollar Georgia 1999 coins—can turn spare change into real cash. If you have old coins lying around, it’s time to start checking them carefully. You might just be sitting on a fortune without realizing it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much is a 1967 quarter worth today?
A circulated 1967 quarter is typically worth face value. However, if it was struck on a silver planchet or has errors, it could fetch $7,000–$12,000.
Q: How much is a silver quarter worth?
90% silver quarters like the 1964 quarter or 1962 quarter can sell for $5–$7 based on current silver prices—and even more if in mint condition.
Q: What about modern 2024 and 2025 quarters?
New issues like the 2024 quarter or recent state and commemorative quarters could become valuable if minting errors are found early.
Q: Are quarters from 1974 or 1978 valuable?
1974 quarter value and 1978 quarter value mainly depends on condition and errors. Regular coins are not very rare but unique mistakes can fetch $100–$500+.
Q: Should I invest in quarter coins?
Collecting coins like the Maya Angelou quarter worth or error-filled issues like the 2022 quarter error series can be rewarding with proper knowledge and patience.