Have you ever dug through your pocket change, hoping to stumble across a hidden treasure? Maybe you’ve heard stories of people finding rare coins worth thousands, and you’ve wondered if you’re sitting on a goldmine without even knowing it. Well, you might be! Quarters—those unassuming 25-cent pieces we use for vending machines and parking meters—can sometimes be worth far more than their face value.
In this blog post, we’re diving into the top 12 rarest quarter coins that are still floating around in circulation as of April 2025. So, grab your loose change, and let’s explore these numismatic gems together!
Why Quarters Can Be Worth More Than 25 Cents
Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why some quarters are so valuable. It’s not just about age—though that can play a role. Rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and condition all factor in. According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), a coin’s value skyrockets when it’s scarce or has a unique flaw.
Imagine finding a quarter that was accidentally stamped twice or minted with the wrong metal. These quirks turn everyday coins into collector’s dreams. And the best part? Some of these treasures are still out there, waiting to be found in your pocket!
The Top 12 Rarest Quarters Still in Circulation
Ready to become a coin-hunting pro? Here are the 12 rarest quarters you might still find in circulation today. Keep your eyes peeled—these could turn your spare change into serious cash.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter kicks off our list with a bang. Minted in Denver to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, only 436,800 were produced. That’s tiny compared to the millions of quarters churned out yearly! In circulated condition, it’s worth about $70, but a mint-state version could fetch over $1,000. Check the reverse for the “D” mint mark below the eagle.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Next up is the 1932-S, minted in San Francisco. With an even smaller mintage of 408,000, this quarter is a holy grail for collectors. Even in rough shape, it’s valued at $85, while pristine examples can hit $5,000 or more. Look for the “S” mint mark—it’s your ticket to a potential windfall.
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent (Oops, Quarter!)
Okay, confession time—I almost slipped a penny into this list! Let’s pivot to a true quarter: the 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter with a doubled die obverse. This error makes “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear doubled. Only a handful escaped into circulation, and they’re worth up to $35,000 in top condition. Check your proof-like quarters closely!
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf High Quarter
Fast forward to the State Quarters series. The 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter has a famous error: an extra leaf on the corn stalk. Dubbed the “Extra Leaf High” variety, it’s subtle but valuable—around $45 in circulated condition and up to $300 uncirculated. Experts think a mint worker might’ve added it intentionally, making it a quirky piece of history.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Low Quarter
The twin to the above, the “Extra Leaf Low” version has the bonus leaf pointing downward. It’s slightly less valuable—$50 circulated, $200 uncirculated—but still a rare find. Next time you grab a quarter from Wisconsin change, inspect that corn!
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
The 1999-P Delaware State Quarter features a horse that looks like it’s spitting, thanks to a die gouge error. It’s a fan favorite among collectors, fetching $20-$50 in circulation and over $300 uncirculated. Look for the “P” mint mark and that telltale “spit” on Caesar Rodney’s horse.
2019-W Lowell National Historical Park Quarter
In 2019, the U.S. Mint shook things up by releasing 2 million quarters with a “W” mint mark from West Point—mixed into regular circulation. The Lowell quarter from the America the Beautiful series is one of five designs. Circulated, it’s worth $10-$25; uncirculated, up to $650. Only 1 in 200 quarters from 2019 has this mark, so it’s a needle in a haystack!
2019-W War in the Pacific Quarter
Another 2019-W gem, this quarter honors Guam’s WWII history. Like its Lowell cousin, it’s scarce in circulation. Values mirror the Lowell—$10-$25 used, up to $650 pristine. Check below “IN GOD WE TRUST” for that elusive “W.”
1965 Washington Quarter (Transitional Error)
Pre-1965 quarters were 90% silver, but 1965 marked the switch to clad coins. Some 1965 quarters were accidentally struck on silver planchets, making them rare and valuable—$50-$100 in circulation, thousands if uncirculated. Weigh it: silver quarters are 6.25 grams, clad ones are 5.67 grams.
2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The 2005-P Minnesota Quarter has over 60 doubled die varieties, with extra spruce trees on the reverse. The most prominent ones show ghostlike outlines near the state’s border. Circulated, they’re worth $20-$75; uncirculated, up to $200. Grab a magnifying glass for this one!
1999-S Pennsylvania Proof Silver Quarter
Proof coins aren’t meant for circulation, but some 1999-S Pennsylvania silver quarters slipped out. With a mintage of 804,565, they’re 90% silver and stunning. If you find one, it’s worth $35-$50. Look for the “S” and a mirror-like finish.
1983-P Washington Quarter
Rounding out the list is the 1983-P. During the early ‘80s recession, few people saved quarters, so uncirculated examples are scarce. A circulated one is just 25 cents, but an uncirculated gem can hit $20-$50. Check for the “P” and pristine condition.
Real-Life Treasure Hunts – Stories That Inspire
Think these coins are just myths? Think again! In 2019, a Massachusetts man found a 2019-W quarter in his change at a gas station. He sold it for $200 on eBay—a nice bonus for a tank of gas! Then there’s the Texas mom who spotted a 1965 silver quarter in 2014, later valued at $500. These stories prove that rare quarters are out there, hiding in plain sight.
How to Spot These Rare Quarters
So, how do you join the treasure hunt? First, check the date and mint mark—usually a tiny “D,” “S,” “P,” or “W” near the design. Next, look for errors like doubling or extra features. A magnifying glass helps, especially for subtle flaws. Finally, weigh pre-1965 quarters to spot silver ones. Coin expert John Dannreuther says, “Condition is king—unworn coins fetch the highest prices.” Keep that in mind as you sift through your stash.
What to Do If You Find One
Found a winner? Don’t spend it! Get it appraised by a professional—PCGS or NGC are gold standards. They’ll grade it (1-70 scale) and certify its authenticity. Then, decide: sell at auction (Heritage Auctions is a top pick), to a dealer, or keep it as a family heirloom. A 1932-D in mint state once sold for $18,000—proof these coins can change your life!
Why This Matters in 2025
As of April 3, 2025, these quarters remain in circulation because people still use cash, and old coins keep cycling through. The U.S. Mint produces billions of quarters yearly, but rarities like these slip through the cracks. With inflation rising, finding a valuable quarter feels like winning a mini lottery—perfect timing, right?
Start Checking Your Pockets Today!
Next time you’re at the grocery store or emptying your coin jar, take a second look. These 12 rare quarters—whether silver errors, doubled dies, or low-mintage classics—could be hiding among your change. It’s a fun, free way to connect with history and maybe pocket some extra cash. So, what are you waiting for? Check your pockets again—you might just strike it rich!