Have you ever glanced at your change and thought, “What if this coin is worth a fortune?” Well, for some lucky collectors, that thought has turned into reality—especially when it comes to specific quarters. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the fascinating world of rare quarters, how to spot them, and what makes some of these coins worth staggering amounts of money.
The Allure of the Rare Quarter
When most people think of valuable coins, they often imagine gold or silver pieces, but the truth is that certain quarters can fetch prices in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. The coin that has generated the most buzz recently is the 1970-S Washington quarter, particularly one known as the “Doubled Die” variety. This coin has been reported to sell for as much as $456,000 at auction, captivating numismatists and casual collectors alike.
What Makes the 1970-S Doubled Die Quarter So Valuable?
- Minting Errors: The 1970-S quarter is notable for its minting error, known as the “doubled die.” This occurs when a coin is struck multiple times, resulting in a visible doubling of the features on the obverse side of the coin. Collectors highly prize such errors for their rarity and the uniqueness they add to a coin’s history.
- Limited Supply: Only a small number of these quarters are known to exist. The rarity combined with high demand drives up the price. In fact, the recent sales of this coin have created a frenzy in the collecting community, leading some to scour through their change, hoping to find one.
- Condition Matters: The condition of the coin significantly affects its value. Coins graded by professional services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) can command much higher prices than those that are circulated or damaged. A pristine example of the 1970-S quarter can attract bids in the high six figures.
How to Spot a Valuable Quarter
If you want to see if your quarters hold any hidden treasures, here are some tips to help you identify valuable coins:
- Check for Mint Marks: Look for the mint mark on the back of the coin. The 1970-S quarters will have an “S” mint mark, indicating they were struck in San Francisco.
- Inspect for Doubling: Examine the coin closely under a magnifying glass. Look for signs of doubling, particularly around the words “In God We Trust” and the date. If you see a shadow or a second image, you may have a winner.
- Consider Other Rare Quarters: While the 1970-S is the star of the show, other quarters have significant value as well. Examples include:
- 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters: These are some of the most sought-after coins, often selling for thousands of dollars.
- 1950-D Washington quarter: Another key date that can be quite valuable.
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How to Evaluate and Sell Your Quarters
If you believe you have a rare quarter, here’s how to evaluate its worth:
- Get it Graded: Consider sending your coin to a professional grading service. A good grade can significantly increase its value.
- Research Current Market Trends: Check auction sites, numismatic publications, and online marketplaces to see what similar coins are selling for.
- Find a Reputable Dealer: If you’re ready to sell, find a trustworthy coin dealer or consider selling at auction. Be prepared for potential fees and ensure that the dealer is reputable.
While it may seem unlikely, your pocket change could hold a small fortune. The excitement of discovering a rare quarter like the 1970-S Doubled Die is enough to make any collector’s heart race. So, the next time you dig into your coin jar, remember that what you find might be more than just pocket change—it could be a hidden treasure worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Happy hunting!