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YOU might be in possession of a coin collector’s $74,400 dream, and you might not even know it.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter, graded MS66 by PCGS, holds a unique place in numismatic history because of its unique hues.
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This coin marks the debut of John Flanagan’s Washington quarter design, created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.
Released during the Great Depression, when demand for new coinage was low, no quarters were minted in 1931 or 1933.
While the Philadelphia Mint produced 5.4 million quarters in 1932, the Denver and San Francisco Mints struck significantly smaller quantities, with just 436,800 and 408,000 pieces, respectively.
COIN CORNER
Quarter collecting was not particularly popular in 1932.
Lower-denomination coins like cents, nickels, and dimes were favored by budget-conscious collectors, while more affluent numismatists were drawn to the beauty of the Walking Liberty half dollar.
As a result, few 1932-D Washington quarters were saved by collectors, and the majority entered circulation, where they saw heavy use until the 1950s.
It wasn’t until after World War II that numismatic demand for the coin began to rise, and most of the surviving 1932-D quarters were culled from circulation by 1960.
While the coin is not considered rare in lower Mint State grades, it becomes exceptionally scarce in Gem condition (MS65 or better).
In fact, the 1932-D is the rarest of the Washington quarter series in Gem grades, even rarer than the lower-mintage 1932-S.
WHAT A RARITY
PCGS has certified only two examples of the 1932-D quarter in MS66 condition, with none graded higher, and NGC has graded just one at the same level.
The first MS66-certified coin appeared in an auction in 2001, where it realized an impressive price of $89,125, a significant sum at the time.
In a subsequent 2008 auction, the coin fetched $143,750, setting a record for the issue that still stands today.
This particular coin is remarkable for its clean surfaces, free from the abrasions commonly seen on this issue.
The reverse is mostly brilliant, with subtle hints of olive-copper toning at the lower rim.
How coins are graded
Coins are graded on a scale of one to 70, with one being the poorest grade, and 70 being the most pristine example.
Numbers 60 to 70 are generally the most sought-after by collectors and are known as Mint State coins.
Pieces that fetch thousands at auction are commonly found in MS67, MS68, and MS69 conditions.
An MS-70 is near-impossible to find among older coins.
The obverse, however, is extraordinary, featuring a bright center encircled by a golden-olive band of toning, with occasional scarlet flecks adding depth to its appearance.
With its exceptional quality, rarity, and eye appeal, this 1932-D Washington Quarter in MS66 condition stands as a premier example for any Washington quarter collection or Registry Set.
Its historical significance and striking beauty make it one of the most sought-after coins in the series.
Weighing 6.25 grams and composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin has been certified by both PCGS and NGC under the numbers 5791 and 2448, respectively.
Its auction history, including its appearances in 2001 and 2008, solidifies its status as a top-tier rarity in the numismatic world.
This unique quarter isn’t the only coin collectors can get cash from.
A historic coin that was meant to be worth a small amount is actually valued at $352,500 thanks to a small detail.
Another coin has an error that can make it worth $840,000.
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