Top 5 Ultra‑Rare Washington Coins Worth Over $100,000: Washington coins, particularly those featuring the likeness of George Washington, are some of the most recognizable and sought-after coins in the United States. These coins span a variety of series, with the most famous being the Washington Quarter. However, there are other rare coins featuring Washington, including early commemorative coins, error coins, and limited-edition pieces. What sets Washington coins apart is not only their historical significance but also their connection to one of the most revered figures in American history.
For numismatists, finding an ultra-rare Washington coin can be the ultimate treasure hunt. Some of these coins have become extremely valuable, reaching figures over $100,000. This guide highlights five of the rarest and most valuable Washington-related coins, providing insight into their significance, history, and why they command such high prices at auction.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most iconic and rare coins in American history. It was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. The design, created by John Flanagan, features a portrait of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
While the 1932 Washington Quarter was minted in large numbers, the 1932-D variety is particularly valuable due to its low mintage. Only 436,800 coins were struck at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest Washington Quarters ever produced. This scarcity, combined with the historical significance of Washington’s bicentennial, makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter a highly prized coin.
In terms of value, the 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the few coins that consistently fetches over $100,000 in high-grade condition, especially those graded as MS-67 or higher. Coins in lower grades are still valuable but are significantly less sought after.
- Estimated Value in 2026:
- In average circulated condition: $1,000 – $3,000
- In high-grade condition (MS-67): $100,000+
- Rarity: Extremely rare, with fewer than 500,000 minted.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Much like the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key coin in the Washington Quarter series. The 1932-S quarter was minted at the San Francisco Mint, and although it was struck in larger quantities than the 1932-D, it is still considered one of the rarest and most valuable varieties of the 1932 Washington Quarters.
The San Francisco Mint produced just 408,000 of these coins, making it one of the lowest mintage quarters in U.S. history. As a result, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is highly sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades. High-grade examples, particularly those graded MS-67 or higher, have been known to command prices over $100,000 at auction. Collectors value the 1932-S for its rarity and the historical importance of the year it was minted.
- Estimated Value in 2026:
- In average circulated condition: $300 – $600
- In high-grade condition (MS-67): $100,000+
- Rarity: Extremely rare, with only 408,000 coins minted.
3. 1934-D Washington Quarter (With Doubled Die)
The 1934-D Washington Quarter is another rare and valuable coin in the series. Although it has a higher mintage compared to the 1932-D and 1932-S, its value is significantly boosted by a known variety with a doubled die error. This error occurred during the minting process, where the design was struck twice, causing the features of George Washington’s portrait to appear doubled. This error, known as a “doubled die,” is rare and highly collectible.
The 1934-D Washington Quarter with a doubled die is an especially sought-after variety because the error is easy to spot with the naked eye. The doubling effect is visible in Washington’s hair and on the date, making it one of the more visually striking errors in U.S. coinage.
The rarity of this error, combined with the historical significance of the 1934 quarter, means that well-preserved examples can easily fetch over $100,000 in high-grade condition. These coins are highly prized by collectors, both for their error status and their place in the Washington Quarter series.
- Estimated Value in 2026:
- In average circulated condition: $300 – $500
- In high-grade condition (MS-65 or higher): $100,000+
- Rarity: Rare, with only a few examples known to have the doubled die error.
4. 1999 Washington Dollar Coin (Wide Rim)
The 1999 Washington Dollar Coin, issued as part of the State Quarters program, features the image of George Washington on the obverse. The coin was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the State Quarters program, with each state represented on the reverse of the coin. While most of the coins in this series are worth face value or slightly more, there is a particularly rare variety of the 1999 Washington Dollar Coin—the “Wide Rim” variety.
The 1999 Washington Dollar Coin with the wide rim error occurs when the coin’s design is misaligned during the minting process, leading to an unusually wide rim around the edge of the coin. This error is quite rare and only a handful of examples have been discovered. Because of its scarcity, the wide rim variety of the 1999 Washington Dollar Coin is highly valued by collectors.
In top condition, these wide-rimmed coins have been known to sell for over $100,000 at auction. Their rarity, combined with their status as part of a popular coin series, makes them one of the most sought-after Washington coins for collectors.
- Estimated Value in 2026:
- In average circulated condition: $500 – $1,000
- In high-grade condition: $100,000+
- Rarity: Extremely rare, with only a handful of examples known.
5. 1934 Washington Half Dollar (High Relief)
The 1934 Washington Half Dollar is a commemorative coin issued to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. However, the 1934 Washington Half Dollar is most valuable in its high-relief variety. This coin was struck with a higher level of relief compared to the standard version, which gave it a more pronounced 3D appearance. The high-relief version of the coin was not intended for mass production and was produced in limited quantities, making it exceedingly rare today.
The 1934 Washington Half Dollar with high relief is highly prized by collectors, especially those focused on U.S. commemorative coins. Because of its limited mintage and distinctive design, it commands a premium price at auctions, particularly in higher grades. Well-preserved examples in MS-65 or higher can fetch over $100,000.
- Estimated Value in 2026:
- In average circulated condition: $500 – $1,500
- In high-grade condition (MS-65 or higher): $100,000+
- Rarity: Rare, with only a small number produced in high relief.
Factors Affecting the Value of Washington Coins
Several factors play a role in determining the value of Washington coins, especially the ultra-rare examples featured in this guide. These factors include:
1. Condition (Grade)
The condition of a coin is perhaps the most significant factor in determining its value. Coins that are well-preserved and in high-grade condition (such as MS-65 or higher) are much more valuable than those that show signs of wear and tear. Coins that have been preserved in mint condition tend to attract the highest prices at auction.
2. Rarity
Coins with lower mintage numbers or those produced in limited quantities tend to be more valuable. The rarer a coin is, the more valuable it becomes over time, especially as demand for it increases among collectors.
3. Historical Significance
Washington coins are valuable not just for their rarity but also for their historical importance. Coins that commemorate George Washington’s legacy or significant milestones in American history tend to hold more value, as they carry cultural and historical relevance.
4. Mint Errors
Coins that feature mint errors, such as doubled dies or misaligned strikes, are highly sought after by collectors. These errors make the coin unique and increase its value. The rarity of these errors, combined with the desirability of the coin, can significantly raise the price.
Washington Coins Value Summary Table
Here’s a summary table outlining the estimated values of the top five ultra-rare Washington coins:
| Coin Description | Estimated Value (Average Condition) | Estimated Value (High Grade) |
|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | $1,000 – $3,000 | $100,000+ |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | $300 – $600 | $100,000+ |
| 1934-D Washington Quarter (Doubled Die) | $300 – $500 | $100,000+ |
| 1999 Washington Dollar Coin (Wide Rim) | $500 – $1,000 | $100,000+ |
| 1934 Washington Half Dollar (High Relief) | $500 – $1,500 | $100,000+ |
Conclusion: The Allure of Washington Coins
Washington coins, especially those in rare varieties or with mint errors, hold great appeal for collectors and investors alike. From the iconic 1932-D Washington Quarter to the rare 1999 Washington Dollar Coin with the wide rim error, these coins represent both historical significance and the potential for tremendous financial gain. If you’re a numismatist looking to expand your collection or an investor seeking rare assets with long-term potential, Washington coins are certainly worth considering.
As always, the value of these coins is influenced by their rarity, condition, and historical relevance. By staying informed and identifying the most valuable Washington coins, you can build a collection that com