Rare Washington Quarters Worth a Fortune in 2026: The Washington Quarter, one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history, has captivated coin collectors for decades. Originally issued in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the Washington Quarter has gone through several design changes and historical shifts over the years. While many Washington Quarters are still in circulation, a select few have become rare treasures worth a small fortune. As of 2026, collectors are keenly hunting down these valuable pieces, driven by their scarcity, historical significance, and the exciting stories they tell. This guide will introduce you to the rare Washington Quarters you should keep an eye out for in 2026 and provide insight into their value and background.
The History of the Washington Quarter
The Washington Quarter has been a staple of U.S. coinage since 1932, replacing the earlier Standing Liberty Quarter. Its design, featuring the profile of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, was created by sculptor John Flanagan. This simple yet powerful image of the first U.S. president has made the coin instantly recognizable. While the basic design remained in place for decades, various changes, minting errors, and key dates have led to the creation of rare and highly collectible coins within the Washington Quarter series.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the most coveted early issues in the series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, the coin has a mintage of just over 408,000 pieces, making it the lowest mintage Washington Quarter from that year. Due to its low production, the 1932-S is especially rare, and finding one in excellent condition is a challenge for collectors.
In 2026, the value of a 1932-S Washington Quarter can range from a few hundred dollars for a worn specimen to several thousand dollars for a coin in high-grade condition. If you manage to find one of these in your pocket change or during a coin hunt, you’re holding a key date that’s worth serious attention.
1932-D Washington Quarter
Although not as rare as the 1932-S, the 1932-D Washington Quarter still commands a premium due to its relatively low mintage of around 436,000 coins. Minted in Denver, this coin was one of the first to feature the design of George Washington, and it is highly sought after by collectors who specialize in early Washington Quarters. The 1932-D is one of the key dates in the Washington Quarter series, and even coins in less-than-perfect condition can fetch a respectable price.
In 2026, well-preserved specimens of the 1932-D Washington Quarter are valued at several thousand dollars. For collectors, finding one of these coins in high-grade condition is an exciting and rewarding experience, as it’s a significant piece of American numismatic history.
1942/1 Washington Quarter (Overdate Error)
Among the many error coins produced over the years, the 1942/1 Washington Quarter stands out as one of the most famous and valuable. This overdate error occurred when a die from the previous year, 1941, was mistakenly used to strike 1942 coins. As a result, the 1942/1 Washington Quarter features a distinctive “1” visible beneath the “2” in the year.
The rarity and appeal of the 1942/1 Washington Quarter come from the fact that it’s one of the few overdate coins in U.S. history, and there are only a small number of these coins known to exist. In 2026, the 1942/1 Washington Quarter is a prized find among error coin collectors, and specimens in good condition can easily sell for thousands of dollars, depending on the grade.
1934 Washington Quarter (Low Mintage)
Although not as well-known as some of the earlier coins in the series, the 1934 Washington Quarter holds significant value due to its relatively low mintage. The coin was produced in limited numbers, with only around 1.7 million pieces struck at the Philadelphia Mint. As a result, it is more difficult to find in high-grade condition.
Collectors in 2026 continue to seek out the 1934 Washington Quarter, particularly well-preserved examples. While not as rare as some other key dates, this coin is a must-have for those looking to complete a full Washington Quarter collection. A 1934 Washington Quarter in excellent condition can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on its state of preservation.
1950-D Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Error)
The 1950-D Washington Quarter is another example of a coin with an error that has drawn the attention of collectors. This coin is known for a doubled die error, where the die that struck the coin was misaligned, resulting in a noticeable doubling effect on the coin’s design. The 1950-D Doubled Die is particularly notable for the doubling of the letters “LIBERTY” and the word “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
In 2026, the 1950-D Washington Quarter with the doubled die error is considered a rare find, with well-preserved examples often fetching thousands of dollars at auction. Its appeal to error coin collectors has made it one of the more valuable Washington Quarters, and finding one in mint condition is a thrilling discovery.
1964 Washington Quarter (Silver Version)
The 1964 Washington Quarter holds special significance because it is the last year the coin was struck in 90% silver before the U.S. Mint transitioned to a copper-nickel composition. Due to its silver content, the 1964 quarter remains popular among collectors, especially in a time when the price of silver continues to rise. While the 1964 Washington Quarter was produced in large quantities, the coin still holds value due to its silver composition and historical importance.
In 2026, a 1964 Washington Quarter in excellent condition can be worth more than its face value, especially when silver prices are high. While it may not be as rare as some other Washington Quarters, it’s still a key coin in the series and worth keeping an eye out for in your collection.
1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter (Error or Varieties)
The 1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter is a special issue, commemorating the 200th anniversary of American independence. While the standard version of the coin is relatively common, there are several error varieties and unique versions that have become highly sought after by collectors. For example, some 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were struck with the wrong dies, creating distinctive flaws in the design.
Additionally, a special set of 1976 Bicentennial Quarters was struck with a dual mintmark, a rare feature that adds to the coin’s appeal. In 2026, collectors of modern U.S. coins continue to hunt for these error and variety coins, and certain examples of the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the error.
1982 Washington Quarter (Proof and High-Grade Specimens)
While not typically considered rare in the same way as earlier Washington Quarters, the 1982 Washington Quarter is a noteworthy coin for collectors due to its status as a proof coin. Proof coins are specially made for collectors, and they have a mirror-like finish and sharp details. The 1982 proof version of the Washington Quarter is a beautiful example of coinage artistry.
In 2026, a 1982 Washington Quarter in proof condition can be a desirable addition to a coin collection, especially when paired with other high-grade proof coins from the same era. Although the 1982 quarter is not rare in terms of mintage, its quality and finish make it a desirable coin for collectors.
1999-2008 State Quarters (Low-Mintage and Error Coins)
The State Quarters program, launched in 1999 and running through 2008, featured designs honoring each of the 50 U.S. states. While most of the quarters from this program are common and still in circulation, there are some that are worth a fortune due to low mintage or errors in the design. For example, certain State Quarters were minted in very limited numbers or have unique design flaws that increase their value.
In 2026, collectors are still hunting down these rare State Quarters, especially error coins or those from low-mintage years. The 2004 Wisconsin Quarter, for instance, is known for an error where a die break created a “corn stalk” on the reverse. These coins, along with others from the State Quarters program, can fetch significant premiums at auction.
Conclusion
Washington Quarters are more than just coins; they are pieces of history that continue to capture the attention of collectors in 2026. From the early key dates like the 1932-S and 1932-D to modern errors and low-mintage examples, there are plenty of treasures within the Washington Quarter series. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, these rare Washington Quarters provide exciting opportunities to own a piece of numismatic history. Keep an eye out for these valuable coins, as you might just stumble upon a hidden treasure worth a fortune.