The 1932-D Washington Quarter is a collector’s dream. With its unique pinkish and olive tones, this coin has gained fame and value over the years. Although it was initially minted in low numbers due to the Great Depression, it holds a special place in American numismatic history. Learn what makes this rare coin so valuable, and discover why collectors are willing to pay thousands to own it.
The Story Behind the 1932-D Washington Quarter
A Tribute to George Washington
The 1932-D quarter marked the debut of John Flanagan’s iconic Washington design, commemorating the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. This unique design set the foundation for one of America’s longest-running coin series. The coin’s rarity isn’t just because of its design but also because of the economic challenges during its release.
Minted During Tough Times
In the early 1930s, America was going through the Great Depression, so demand for new coins was low. No quarters were minted in 1931 or 1933. When minting resumed in 1932, the Philadelphia Mint struck 5.4 million quarters. However, only a limited number—436,800 at Denver (D) and 408,000 at San Francisco (S)—were produced, making these coins much rarer.
Why Is the 1932-D Washington Quarter So Valuable?
Low Initial Interest
Back in 1932, collectors weren’t too excited about quarters. Most people focused on collecting cents, nickels, and dimes, which were cheaper. More affluent collectors preferred the Walking Liberty half dollar for its beauty. As a result, only a small number of 1932-D quarters were saved by collectors, with the majority entering circulation and showing heavy wear over the years.
Increased Demand After WWII
After World War II, the numismatic community began to recognize the value of the 1932-D Washington Quarter. By the 1960s, collectors were actively searching for these coins in good condition. However, finding high-grade quarters from this year is difficult since most circulated heavily, making them rare in top condition.
Rarity in Gem Condition
Coins are graded on a scale, with “Gem” (or MS65+) being one of the highest and rarest grades. The 1932-D quarter is extremely rare in Gem condition, even rarer than the 1932-S. PCGS, a top coin-grading company, has only certified two 1932-D quarters at MS66, the highest grade found so far.
Record-Breaking Auctions
The first 1932-D quarter in MS66 was sold in 2001, fetching $89,125. Another sale in 2008 saw the coin reach $143,750—a record for this coin that remains unbeaten. With a perfect, scratch-free surface, beautiful toning on both sides, and unique olive-copper hues, this coin continues to be highly sought after.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | 1932 |
| Mint Location | Denver (D) |
| Total Minted | 436,800 |
| Highest Grade Certified | MS66 |
| Recent Sale Prices | $89,125 (2001), $143,750 (2008) |
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
Other High-Value Coins
- Small Detail, Big Value – Some coins are worth much more than their face value because of small errors or unique features. For example, one U.S. coin is valued at $352,500 due to a specific design detail.
- Rare Error Coins – Another U.S. coin with a minting error has reached a value of $840,000, showing that unusual features can make a huge difference in price.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter so rare?
It’s rare because of its limited production during the Great Depression and heavy use in circulation, especially in high grades.
How much is a 1932-D Washington Quarter worth today?
A top-grade (MS66) 1932-D quarter can be worth over $100,000, depending on condition and demand.
What makes the MS66 grade special?
MS66 is an extremely high grade indicating near-perfect condition, which is rare for coins that circulated heavily.