Washington Quarters are popular collector items, but only a few stand out as exceptionally valuable. The 1932 Washington Quarters, especially those from the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints, can fetch astounding prices if in pristine condition.
This article will guide you through the details of these rare coins, highlighting their unique characteristics, value potential, and what to look for if you think you have one.
Importance Of 1932 Washington Quarters
The 1932 Washington Quarters are among the most sought-after coins by collectors. Known for their scarcity and historical significance, these coins marked the beginning of the Washington Quarter series. The mints in Denver and San Francisco produced a limited quantity, making them rare finds in excellent condition.
Details Of 1932-D Washington Quarter
The Denver-minted 1932-D Washington Quarter is particularly rare, with only around 436,000 units originally minted. This coin’s high value comes from its limited availability and silver content.
Coins graded in excellent condition, such as MS66, have set auction records, with one fetching up to $143,750. Collectors prize this piece due to its historical value and scarcity.
1932-S Washington Quarter And Its Value
The 1932-S Washington Quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another valuable coin in this series. Slightly more available than its Denver counterpart, with a mintage of around 408,000, it still remains a rare collectible.
While not as valuable as the 1932-D, a 1932-S coin in top condition (graded MS65) can still reach prices up to $3,000, making it a worthy addition to any coin collection.
Why Condition Matters In Coin Valuation
When assessing the value of a Washington Quarter, condition is a crucial factor. Coins graded by organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) are often valued much higher, especially if they are in mint state (MS) conditions.
Fewer than 100 pieces of the 1932-D have achieved an MS65 grade, significantly increasing their value in the collector’s market.
| Year | Mint Location | Mintage | Estimated Top Value (MS Condition) | Number Graded by PCGS (MS65) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 | Denver (D) | 436,000 | Up to $144,000 | Fewer than 100 |
| 1932 | San Francisco (S) | 408,000 | Up to $3,000 | Around 200 |
Demand Among Collectors For 1932 Quarters
The limited mintage of the 1932-D and 1932-S Quarters, combined with their silver content and history, keeps demand high among collectors. As more collectors seek to add these rare coins to their portfolios, prices are likely to remain elevated, particularly for coins in near-perfect condition. Owning one of these coins provides not only a financial asset but also a piece of American history.
Conclusion
If you have a 1932-D or 1932-S Washington Quarter in excellent condition, you may be holding onto a small fortune. These coins, with values soaring up to $144,000, represent an iconic period in U.S. mint history. Be sure to have your coin assessed by a professional grader to determine its worth.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters so valuable?
The rarity, limited mintage, and historical significance of these coins make them highly valuable to collectors. Their value is further boosted by their silver content and the fact that few remain in mint condition.
2. How can I determine the value of my Washington Quarter?
The value of your Washington Quarter depends on its condition and mint location. It’s best to have it graded by an official grading service like PCGS for an accurate assessment.
3. Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter more valuable than the 1932-S?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is rarer, with fewer coins in excellent condition available, making it more sought after and valuable than the 1932-S.
4. How do I get my Washington Quarter graded?
You can send your coin to a recognized grading service like PCGS or NGC. They will assess its condition and assign it a grade, which will help determine its market value.
5. Are there other Washington Quarters that are valuable?
Yes, several Washington Quarters minted with errors or in limited quantities are also valuable. However, the 1932-D and 1932-S are among the most sought-after due to their age and scarcity.