Typically, older coins tend to fetch higher prices, with vintage or antique coins often worth a lot of money. However, if you’re a recent collector, you might not have access to rare, vintage coins just yet. Fortunately, many modern coins also carry significant value—sometimes worth hundreds of dollars, which is still impressive for a quarter! Let’s explore the most valuable modern quarters and uncover the stories behind these exceptional coins.
1. 2010 Hot Springs Arkansas NP Washington Quarter
When we talk about “modern” coins, we typically refer to those that have been minted in recent decades. In the world of resale, an antique is considered to be at least 100 years old, and a vintage collectible is one that’s between 50 and 99 years old. In that context, all Washington Quarters, minted since 1932, are considered modern. Let’s dive into one particularly notable coin from this category.
- Year: 2010
- Series: America the Beautiful National Parks & Monuments – Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 69
- Date Sold: November 15, 2012
- Price: $999
As we continue exploring, we’ll look at other notable series like America the Beautiful, American Women Quarters, 50 State Quarters, and DC & Territories Quarters.
2. 1981-S Proof Deep Cameo Washington Quarter
The design of the Washington Quarter has changed multiple times over the years, especially on the reverse side of the coin. But the obverse, featuring George Washington, has remained consistent since 1932, albeit with three different versions of Washington’s portrait. Let’s take a look at one coin that has garnered significant attention and value.
- Year: 1981
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Grade: PR 70 DCAM
- Date Sold: November 29, 2007
- Price: $2,530
This coin is especially prized for its deep cameo finish and near-perfect grade, making it highly sought after among collectors. The coin’s quality and rarity play a big role in its premium price.
3. 1984-P Clad Type 2 Washington Quarter Business Strike
In the early 20th century, Congress briefly considered minting a commemorative coin for George Washington’s bicentennial in 1932. Ultimately, the plan was scrapped due to cost concerns, but a circulating coin was agreed upon. This led to the Washington Quarter, which became an iconic symbol of American coinage.
- Year: 1984
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia
- Grade: MS 67
- Date Sold: February 4, 2016
- Price: $1,293
This particular coin is part of the “Clad” series, and its high-grade condition makes it particularly valuable to collectors. The rarity of such well-preserved quarters contributes to their increasing demand.
4. 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike
The history of the Washington Quarter is tied to its design, which was chosen through a public competition. The winning design, by Laura Gardin Fraser, was used for several commemorative coins before it was adopted for the Washington Quarter. The high-quality 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter remains one of the most valuable coins from this era.
- Year: 1963
- Series: Washington Quarter
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Grade: MS 68
- Date Sold: August 31, 2022
- Price: $24,000
This particular coin is valued for its pristine quality and its status as a silver quarter. Its rarity and historical significance in American coinage contribute to its high market price.
5. 1999-S Delaware Proof Deep Cameo Washington Quarter
The State Quarters program, which started in 1999, became a huge success. Delaware was the first state to be honored with its own commemorative quarter. The 1999-S Delaware Proof Deep Cameo Washington Quarter is a standout piece from this series.
- Year: 1999
- Series: State Quarters – Delaware
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Grade: PR 70 DCAM
- Date Sold: November 29, 2007
- Price: $1,323
With a perfect grade and deep cameo finish, this coin is one of the most valuable of the State Quarters series. The pristine condition of this quarter, along with its historical significance as the first state to be honored in the program, makes it highly sought after.
Conclusion
While vintage and antique coins typically fetch the highest prices, don’t overlook modern quarters! Coins minted in recent decades—especially those with unique designs, special minting finishes, or limited releases—can be worth quite a bit. Whether it’s a rare proof, a limited-run commemorative coin, or one from a celebrated series, modern quarters have the potential to become valuable collector’s items.
If you’re just starting your coin collection or are looking to add to it, keep an eye out for these rare and high-value modern quarters. Their prices can vary, but you’ll likely be surprised at how much some of these coins can sell for. Happy collecting!
. What factors make a modern quarter valuable?
Modern quarters can become valuable for several reasons, including their rarity, unique production characteristics, and condition. Coins with special features—like proof finishes, deep cameos, or limited mintage numbers—are especially prized by collectors. Additionally, coins from commemorative series such as America the Beautiful or State Quarters, which carry historical significance, often command higher prices.
2. How do I assess the value of my modern quarters?
The worth of a modern quarter is mainly determined by its grade (condition), rarity, and any special attributes, such as minting errors or limited production runs. To get an accurate valuation, you may want to have your coin professionally graded by organizations like PCGS or NGC. You can also check auction sites or numismatic marketplaces to gauge the current selling prices of similar coins.
3. Are all modern quarters worth more than face value?
Not all modern quarters are valuable. While coins in pristine condition may be worth slightly more than face value, most regularly circulated quarters are only worth 25 cents. However, certain editions, such as limited-issue commemorative coins, proof coins with high grades, or coins from special minting series (like the State Quarters or America the Beautiful series), can be worth much more.
4. How can I tell if my quarter is a proof coin?
Proof coins are specially produced with a higher level of craftsmanship, typically featuring a shiny, mirror-like finish and enhanced detail. These coins are often produced for collectors and not for circulation. Proof quarters minted in San Francisco usually have an “S” mintmark. Additionally, coins marked with “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) denote a high-quality proof coin, with frosted designs against a mirrored background.
5. Where can I sell my valuable modern quarters?
If you own valuable modern quarters, you can sell them at local coin shops, through online auction sites like eBay, or through professional numismatic dealers. For particularly rare or high-value coins, it’s worth considering specialized auctions or seeking out a well-regarded dealer to get the best price. Always ensure your coin is professionally graded to maximize its potential sale price.