Coin collectors know that some coins can be worth a lot more than their face value, and the 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of those hidden treasures. Minted during the Great Depression, this quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history. In this article, we’ll explore why the 1932-D Washington Quarter is so valuable, its history, and how you can determine if you have one in your collection.
History of the 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter was minted during a tough time in the United States. The country was in the middle of the Great Depression, which meant fewer coins were being made by the U.S. Mint. The economy was struggling, and many businesses were forced to cut back on production. As a result, only 436,800 of these quarters were made, making them extremely rare today.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter was the first quarter to feature George Washington on the front. Before this, the U.S. Mint used the standing eagle design. The new design was part of a movement to honor the country’s first president. The quarter became part of a new series that continues to feature Washington on the front of quarters today.
Key Features of the 1932-D Washington Quarter
To identify a 1932-D Washington Quarter, you need to look for some key features that make it stand out:
- Mint Mark: The most important feature of the 1932-D quarter is the “D” mint mark, which is located on the reverse side of the coin beneath the eagle. This mint mark indicates that the coin was produced at the Denver Mint.
- Design: The front of the coin features a portrait of George Washington, designed by sculptor John Flanagan. On the reverse side, you’ll see an eagle with wings spread out, holding arrows and an olive branch in its claws.
- Composition: Like most quarters made before 1965, the 1932-D quarter is made of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it both historical and intrinsic value.
Why the 1932-D Washington Quarter is So Valuable
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is valuable for several reasons:
- Low Mintage: Only 436,800 of these quarters were made, which is much lower than most other quarters from that era. The limited number of coins means that fewer are available for collectors, increasing their value.
- Historical Significance: As the first quarter to feature George Washington’s portrait, the 1932-D quarter holds a special place in American history. It was minted during the Great Depression, adding to its appeal for collectors who are interested in coins from this era.
- Condition: The condition of a coin plays a huge role in its value. Coins that have been well-preserved and are in “Mint State” (MS-65 or higher) can fetch a higher price at auctions. The 1932-D quarter is especially valuable in top condition, with prices reaching up to $140,000 for a Mint State coin.
How to Determine the Value of Your 1932-D Washington Quarter
The value of the 1932-D Washington Quarter depends largely on its condition. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being perfect. Here’s an idea of how the condition can affect the price:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $100 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $1,000 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | Up to $140,000 |
- Good (G-4): A coin in this condition may show heavy wear, and the details of the design are less clear. These coins are still valuable, but not as much as those in better condition.
- Very Fine (VF-20): Coins in this condition show some wear, but the design is still clearly visible. A 1932-D quarter in this condition could be worth around $1,000.
- Mint State (MS-65): A coin in mint condition, with no signs of wear and a shiny appearance, can be worth up to $140,000 or more.
How to Authenticate Your 1932-D Washington Quarter
If you think you may have a 1932-D Washington Quarter, it’s important to make sure it’s authentic. Here’s how you can verify your coin:
- Look for the Mint Mark: The “D” mint mark on the reverse side of the coin is the first thing to check. If it’s missing, you may have a different version of the coin.
- Consult a Professional Grading Service: A professional grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) can help determine the grade of your coin and verify its authenticity.
- Check the Weight and Size: The 1932-D Washington Quarter should weigh 6.25 grams and have a diameter of 24.3 mm. If it doesn’t match, it may not be genuine.
Conclusion
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the history of U.S. currency. Due to its low mintage and historical significance, it holds a special place among coin collectors. If you own one of these coins, it’s worth checking its condition and getting it professionally graded. A 1932-D Washington Quarter in top condition could be worth up to $140,000, making it a valuable piece of American history.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter so valuable?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is valuable due to its low mintage of only 436,800 coins, its historical significance as the first Washington quarter, and its high silver content. Coins in excellent condition can be worth up to $140,000.
How can I tell if my 1932-D Washington Quarter is authentic?
Check for the “D” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse side. You can also have your coin graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and determine its value.
What is the value of a 1932-D Washington Quarter?
The value of a 1932-D Washington Quarter depends on its condition. In good condition, it may be worth around $100, while coins in mint condition can reach values up to $140,000.