Most people look at quarters as just another coin in their pocket, but if you have a quarter from 1932, you might be sitting on a small fortune. That year marked the beginning of the Washington Quarter series, and several coins from this era are now highly prized by collectors. Some have even sold for $20,000 or more due to their rarity, condition, and minting errors. Here are three rare 1932 quarters that could transform your spare change into serious money.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D (minted in Denver) Washington Quarter is among the rarest in the series. It was the first year the Washington quarter was minted, and the Denver Mint produced only 436,800 of them—a very low number compared to modern production levels. Collectors often seek this coin, especially in well-preserved condition. Even a heavily circulated example can sell for $100 to $1,000, while higher-grade pieces have fetched over $20,000 at auction. If you find a quarter with a small “D” mint mark on the reverse under the eagle, it’s worth a closer look.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the Denver mint, the San Francisco Mint also produced a limited number of Washington quarters in 1932—just 408,000 coins. The 1932-S quarter is another key date in the series and highly desirable in the coin-collecting world. A worn example might still be worth a few hundred dollars, but if it’s in excellent condition (graded MS65 or higher), the value can jump to $15,000–$25,000 or more. Look for the small “S” mint mark beneath the eagle’s tail feathers.
1932 Proof-Like Washington Quarter (No Mint Mark)
While the Philadelphia Mint didn’t mark its coins with a mint letter in 1932, some proof-like specimens from that year have surfaced. These coins weren’t official proofs, but they appear with a brilliant finish and exceptional strike. Because of their rarity and eye appeal, collectors prize these coins, especially when they come with original luster and minimal wear. A pristine proof-like 1932 quarter can easily bring in several thousand dollars, and in top condition, one sold for over $18,000.
The next time you go through your coin jar or old family collections, keep an eye out for any 1932 Washington quarters—especially those with a D or S mint mark. These coins are considered key dates and are among the most sought-after quarters in U.S. history. With the right condition and rarity factor, your 25-cent coin could be worth $20,000 or more. Getting it authenticated and graded could reveal you’re holding a collector’s treasure.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my quarter is from 1932?
Look at the date on the front (obverse) of the coin. If it says “1932,” check the reverse for a mint mark below the eagle.
2. Where is the mint mark located on a Washington Quarter?
The mint mark (D or S) is on the back of the coin beneath the wreath and above the word “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
3. What makes the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters so valuable?
Both were produced in very low numbers. Their scarcity makes them highly collectible, especially in good condition.
4. Can a coin still be valuable if it’s worn?
Yes. Even circulated 1932-D or 1932-S quarters can fetch hundreds or thousands depending on their rarity and market demand.
5. Should I get my coin graded before selling it?
Absolutely. A professional grading can significantly impact its value and ensures buyers trust its authenticity and condition.