Among the many coins in U.S. history, the 1932-S Washington Quarter stands out as one of the most coveted by collectors. With a mintage of just 408,000, this coin is exceptionally rare and one of the most valuable in the Washington Quarter series. Despite being slightly more common than its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S is still a highly sought-after piece. In this article, we’ll explore why the 1932-S Washington Quarter is so valuable, its historical significance, and its current market value.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter: A Brief Overview
The 1932-S Washington Quarter was released as part of the first-ever Washington Quarter series, featuring a design of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. This was a change from the previous Barber Quarter design, and the Washington Quarter quickly became an iconic part of U.S. coinage.
The S mintmark refers to the San Francisco Mint, where these quarters were produced. While the 1932-S is slightly more common than the 1932-D (Denver mint), it remains incredibly rare, making it a key coin for collectors. Only 408,000 of these quarters were minted, contributing to their scarcity and value.
Why Is the 1932-S Washington Quarter So Rare?
Low Mintage
The primary reason the 1932-S Washington Quarter is rare is its low mintage. The U.S. Mint produced only 408,000 of these quarters, a very small number compared to other coins in the series. The limited mintage means that fewer coins were available for circulation and collection, making well-preserved examples extremely rare today.
Condition and Preservation
In addition to its low mintage, the condition of the 1932-S is crucial in determining its value. Many of the coins that were produced were worn down over time or spent, meaning that finding one in uncirculated condition is a challenge. The best-preserved examples, with sharp details and no visible wear, are worth far more than coins in lower grades.
Value of the 1932-S Washington Quarter
The value of the 1932-S Washington Quarter depends largely on its condition and rarity. In general, the better the coin’s condition, the higher its value. Below is a table showing the estimated value range for 1932-S Washington Quarters in various conditions:
| Condition | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Significant wear but still recognizable | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear, with some details still visible | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | Light wear, with most of the design still sharp | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Slight wear, with nearly full details and a crisp appearance | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-65) | Perfectly preserved, with no visible wear or imperfections | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
As seen in the table, uncirculated coins (graded MS-60 to MS-65) fetch the highest prices, often surpassing $500,000 at auction. These coins are the most coveted by collectors, especially those in flawless condition with sharp, well-defined features.
How to Identify the 1932-S Washington Quarter
To find and identify a 1932-S Washington Quarter, here’s what to look for:
1. Obverse Design
- The obverse features a left-facing portrait of George Washington. The inscription “LIBERTY” is above his portrait, and the year “1932” is below.
2. Reverse Design
- The reverse side shows an eagle in flight, with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” around it.
3. Mintmark Location
- The S mintmark is located directly beneath the eagle’s tail on the reverse side, which helps identify it as a coin from the San Francisco Mint.
4. Condition
- The coin’s condition is crucial to its value. Examine the coin for signs of wear, scratches, or discoloration. A coin in excellent condition, with clear details and no visible damage, will be worth much more than one in poor condition.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter’s Role in Coin Collecting
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is not just a rare coin; it’s a key coin in the Washington Quarter series. Because of its low mintage and high demand, it is often considered one of the most important coins in U.S. numismatics. It is a cornerstone of any serious collection, and its rarity continues to attract collectors who are willing to pay high prices for well-preserved examples.
In addition to its rarity, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is a symbol of early 20th-century American coinage, making it a historically significant piece of U.S. currency. It marks the beginning of the Washington Quarter series, which continues to be one of the most popular and widely collected series of coins in the United States.
Conclusion
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history. With a mintage of just 408,000, it is an exceptionally rare coin that is highly prized by collectors. Coins in uncirculated condition, with flawless details, can fetch prices of over $500,000, making it one of the most valuable coins in the Washington Quarter series. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, understanding the value of the 1932-S Washington Quarter can help you appreciate its importance in U.S. coinage history—and perhaps even add it to your collection.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1932-S Washington Quarter so rare?
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is rare due to its very low mintage of just 408,000 coins. This limited production makes it highly sought after by collectors, especially those in uncirculated condition.
How much is a 1932-S Washington Quarter worth?
The value of a 1932-S Washington Quarter depends on its condition. In uncirculated condition, it can be worth anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000 or more at auction.
How can I identify a 1932-S Washington Quarter?
To identify a 1932-S Washington Quarter, look for the “S” mintmark located beneath the eagle’s tail on the reverse side. The coin features George Washington’s portrait on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.