
1932 Washington Quarter: If you have a 1932 Washington Quarter sitting in your coin collection, you might be holding a potentially rare and valuable piece of history. Certain versions of this coin can fetch over $10,000, with some pristine examples selling for an astonishing $143,750 at auction!
The value of your 1932 quarter depends on specific mint marks, rarity, and overall condition. In this guide, we’ll explain how to identify valuable 1932 quarters, what makes them rare, and how you can get them authenticated and sold for top dollar.
1932 Washington Quarter
Key Information | Details |
---|---|
Coin Name | 1932 Washington Quarter |
Mint Marks | “D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco) |
Mintage | Denver: 436,800; San Francisco: 408,000 |
Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
Notable Features | Low mintage numbers; key date for collectors |
Estimated Value | Up to $143,750 (depending on condition and rarity) |
Authentication Needed? | Yes, certification by PCGS or NGC recommended |
Record Auction Price | $143,750 (PCGS MS66, 2008) |
Official Resources | PCGS CoinFacts |
The 1932 Washington Quarter is not just a piece of history—it could be a valuable treasure hiding in your collection. If you have a Denver (“D”) or San Francisco (“S”) mint-marked quarter, it’s worth checking its condition, getting it authenticated, and potentially selling it for a significant amount of money.
Understanding the 1932 Washington Quarter
The Washington Quarter series began in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. While the coin was originally intended to be a one-year commemorative issue, it became so popular that it replaced the Standing Liberty Quarter and has been minted continuously since then.
However, due to the Great Depression, the U.S. Mint reduced quarter production in 1932, making some of these coins—especially those minted in Denver (D) and San Francisco (S)—exceptionally rare today.
Identify a Valuable 1932 Washington Quarter
1. Check the Mint Mark
The mint mark is one of the most crucial factors in determining your coin’s value. It indicates where the coin was minted and is located on the reverse (tails side), just below the eagle.
- “D” Mint Mark: Denver Mint (Extremely rare – 436,800 minted)
- “S” Mint Mark: San Francisco Mint (Very rare – 408,000 minted)
- No Mint Mark: Philadelphia Mint (Common – 5,404,000 minted)
If your 1932 quarter has a “D” or “S” mint mark, it could be worth thousands of dollars!
2. Assess the Coin’s Condition (Grading)
Like all valuable coins, the better the condition, the higher the value. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated).
Coin Grade | Estimated Value (1932-D) | Estimated Value (1932-S) |
---|---|---|
Good (G-4) | $100 – $200 | $80 – $150 |
Fine (F-12) | $400 – $600 | $300 – $500 |
Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $1,200 – $2,000 | $800 – $1,500 |
Mint State (MS60-MS65) | $8,000 – $35,000 | $4,000 – $15,000 |
MS66+ (Auction Record) | $143,750 | $45,500 |
Even a worn 1932-D or 1932-S quarter is worth far more than face value due to its rarity!
3. Look for Errors or Special Features
Some 1932 quarters have errors, such as doubled die obverses or striking issues, which can make them even more valuable.
Common Error Types:
- Doubled Die Obverse – Doubling on letters and numbers
- Weak Strike – Some details may appear faint due to weak minting
- Clipped Planchets – Part of the coin appears cut off due to a minting error
If you suspect an error, getting it professionally authenticated can significantly increase its value!
Get Your 1932 Quarter Authenticated & Sold
Because of their high value, it’s crucial to have your coin professionally graded and certified before selling.
Where to Authenticate Your Coin?
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
- ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)
Best Places to Sell Your 1932 Quarter
- Online Auctions – Heritage Auctions & eBay
- Coin Dealers – Find a reputable dealer through the American Numismatic Association
- Local Coin Shows – Often a great place to get an expert evaluation.
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FAQs On 1932 Washington Quarter
1. How do I know if my 1932 quarter is valuable?
Check for a “D” or “S” mint mark on the back of the coin. If the coin is in excellent condition (MS60 or higher), it could be worth thousands of dollars.
2. Where can I sell my 1932 Washington Quarter?
You can sell through coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and Great Collections.
3. Should I clean my 1932 quarter before selling?
No! Cleaning a coin can significantly reduce its value. Leave it in its natural state and store it in a protective case.
4. Are all 1932 quarters valuable?
No, only the ones minted in Denver (“D”) and San Francisco (“S”) are rare and valuable. Philadelphia-minted coins (no mint mark) are more common and less valuable.
5. What if my 1932 quarter is worn or damaged?
Even in worn condition, a 1932-D or 1932-S quarter is still worth far more than face value, often in the hundreds or thousands of dollars.