The Washington Quarter Value 2026 represents strong interest from both collectors and investors seeking affordable entry points into American numismatics. These quarters, minted since 1932, are one of the most collected coin series in United States history. The market continues to see strong demand for both circulated and uncirculated grades, with significant premiums being paid for specimens with higher silver composition and specific dates, appealing to both hobbyists and precious metal investors.
Coin Specifications
Washington quarters have varying specifications depending on their mintage. Pre-1965 silver quarters contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper, weigh 6.25 grams, and measure 24.3 millimeters in diameter. Modern clad quarters minted after 1965 have a copper core with copper-nickel outer layers that remain the same diameter but weigh 5.67 grams. These precise measurements help collectors authenticate genuine specimens and calculate intrinsic metal values.
Metal Composition
Metal composition during different production periods significantly impacts the Washington Quarter Value 2026. Silver quarters minted between 1932 and 1964 contain approximately 0.18084 troy ounces of pure silver, making them significantly more precious metal than their face value. Clad quarters minted after 1964 have outer layers of 75 percent copper and 25 percent nickel bonded to a pure copper core. Special collector editions and proof sets may have different compositions, including 90 percent silver strikes.
Rarity and Demand
Rarity factors significantly influence prices in the Washington Quarter Series. Special dates like the 1932-D and 1932-S command a premium due to their low mintage figures and survival rates. Common-date silver quarters maintain consistent demand from collectors of 90% silver coins. State quarters and America the Beautiful quarters attract specialized collectors seeking to complete sets. Modern proof and mint-set quarters appeal to enthusiasts seeking vintage, non-circulation examples with a mirror-like finish.
Minting Details
Washington quarters have been struck at several United States Mint facilities throughout their production history. The Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints produced circulation strikes with the correct mintmark on the obverse and reverse until 1964. Proof quarters come exclusively from the San Francisco facilities. Annual mintage figures range from millions for early rarities to billions for modern circulation strikes, directly impacting each coin’s availability and collector interest.
Condition and Grading
Professional grading significantly impacts the 2026 Washington Quarter Value across all dates and mint marks. Third-party grading services authenticate and encapsulate coins in protective holders with numerical grades assigned from 1 to 70. Circulated grades range from Good-4 to About Uncirculated-58, while uncirculated grades range from Mint State-60 to Perfect MS-70. Proof quarters receive a separate PF grading scale. Eye appeal, strike quality, luster, and surface protection determine the final grade assignment and corresponding market value.
Market Value
Current market values vary greatly depending on date, mintmark, condition, and composition. Circulated silver quarters with common dates trade near the silver spot price and at a slight premium. Uncirculated silver quarters are available for $5 to $50, depending on grade. High-grade date rarities reach hundreds or thousands of dollars. Modern clad quarters generally trade at face value, unless premiums are charged for certified uncirculated or error varieties. Proof quarters range from $5 to $25, depending on the year and condition.
Investment Potential
Investment potential for Washington quarters includes precious metal content, numismatic premium, and long-term appreciation potential. Silver quarters, with their recognized constitutional silver content, offer tangible asset diversification. High-grade dates offer numismatic growth opportunities linked to collector demand, rather than solely to metal prices. Complete sets appeal to investors seeking assembled collections. Modern quarters generally lack investment potential unless they have significant flaws or perfect grades, which attract registry set collectors seeking condition rarity.
Verdict: Washington Quarter Value 2026
The Washington Quarter Value 2026 demonstrates the enduring appeal of America’s longest-lasting quarter design among collectors and investors. Quarters with high silver content offer precious metal value, while special dates and high-grade specimens command numismatic premiums. Marketability at multiple price points makes Washington quarters ideal for both new collectors and experienced numismatists. The combination of historical significance, precious metal content, and collecting community support ensures continued market interest and long-term, stable value.