Discovering rare and valuable coins in your pocket change can be both exciting and rewarding. Among the most sought-after are certain U.S. quarters from the 1970s and 1980s that, due to errors or low mintages, hold significant value beyond their face worth. Here are five such quarters you might still find in circulation:
1. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter Planchet)
This rare error occurred when a 1970-S proof quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter planchet. The result is a unique coin that has fetched over $35,000 at auction.
2. 1974 and 1977 Quarters Struck on 40% Silver Clad Planchets
During the transition away from silver coinage, some 1974 and 1977 quarters were accidentally struck on 40% silver clad planchets. These transitional errors are scarce and can sell for more than $1,000 each.
3. 1983-P Washington Quarter
The 1983-P quarter is notable due to its higher value in uncirculated condition. A recent auction saw one of these quarters, featuring an offset error, sell for $300.
4. 1982 and 1983 Quarters in High Grades
In 1982 and 1983, the U.S. Mint did not produce official mint sets, making high-grade quarters from these years harder to find. Uncirculated examples can command significant premiums, with some fetching over $1,000.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarters
While most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are common, those struck in 40% silver are more valuable. A silver Bicentennial quarter can be worth about $1.50 to $2, depending on the current silver market.
| Year | Mint Mark | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | S | Proof quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter planchet | $35,000+ |
| 1974 | None/D | Quarter struck on 40% silver clad planchet | $1,000+ |
| 1977 | None/D | Quarter struck on 40% silver clad planchet | $1,000+ |
| 1983 | P | Washington quarter with offset error | $300 |
| 1982 | None/D | High-grade uncirculated quarter | Up to $1,000+ |
| 1983 | None/D | High-grade uncirculated quarter | Up to $1,000+ |
| 1976 | None/D/S | Bicentennial quarter (40% silver) | $1.50 – $2 |
Tips for Identifying Valuable Quarters:
- Mint Marks: Located on the obverse side, to the right of Washington’s neck. A “D” indicates Denver, “S” stands for San Francisco, and “P” (used starting in 1980) denotes Philadelphia.
- Silver Content: Quarters minted before 1965 contain 90% silver. However, certain error coins from the 1970s may also have silver content.
- Errors and Varieties: Look for anomalies such as off-center strikes, doubled dies, or coins struck on incorrect planchets.
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or mint state condition are more valuable. Look for coins with minimal wear and strong luster.
FAQs
How can I tell if my quarter is struck on a silver planchet?
Silver quarters have a distinct silver edge without the copper stripe seen on clad coins. They also weigh slightly more; a silver quarter weighs about 6.25 grams, compared to 5.67 grams for clad quarters.
What should I do if I find a potentially valuable quarter?
Handle the coin carefully, avoid cleaning it, and consider having it professionally graded to determine its condition and value.
Are Bicentennial quarters always valuable?
Most Bicentennial quarters are common and worth face value. However, those struck in 40% silver or in uncirculated condition can be worth more.
