The next time you rifle through your pocket change, don’t just gloss over those quarters. One of them could be worth thousands of dollars! A rare quarter, specifically the 1970-S Washington quarter, has been known to sell for as much as $95,000 at auction. If you have one, you might be sitting on a fortune without even realizing it.
The value of this quarter comes from a combination of factors, including its minting location, production year, and a specific error that makes it one of the most sought-after coins by collectors today. Here’s everything you need to know to find out if you own this rare and valuable coin.
What Makes the 1970-S Quarter So Valuable?
The 1970-S quarter is special because of a significant minting error. Some quarters were accidentally struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, creating a fascinating double-date coin. The minting error, combined with the scarcity of these pieces, makes it a high-value target for coin collectors.
How Can You Identify This Rare Quarter?
To identify this rare coin, first check the mint mark on your 1970 quarter. The rare version will have an “S” below the eagle on the reverse side, indicating it was minted in San Francisco. Additionally, you’ll want to inspect for any signs of the double-date error, or the appearance of the 1941 Canadian quarter’s features, such as faint traces of its original design under the Washington quarter details.
Why Is This Coin Worth So Much?
Coins with errors are highly valued because of their rarity. When an error occurs, only a few coins usually make it into circulation, which drives up their value. In this case, the 1970-S quarter has an extremely low number of known examples, making it a valuable find for collectors who specialize in error coins.
What Should You Do If You Find One?
If you believe you’ve found a rare 1970-S quarter, the first step is to have it professionally appraised. Contact a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert to verify the coin’s authenticity and condition, as these factors will affect its final value. Depending on the appraisal, your quarter could be worth anywhere from a few hundred dollars to upwards of $95,000.
FAQs
1. What does the “S” mint mark mean?
The “S” mint mark indicates that the quarter was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
2. How common is this error coin?
This particular minting error is extremely rare, with very few known examples in circulation, which is why it can fetch such high prices.
3. What makes the 1970-S quarter with the error different from a regular 1970-S quarter?
While many 1970-S quarters were minted, only a small number were struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, making those with the error significantly more valuable.
4. How can I tell if my quarter is worth $95,000?
Have the coin professionally appraised to determine its authenticity and condition, both of which are crucial to its value.
5. Where can I sell my rare quarter?
You can sell your rare quarter through auction houses, reputable coin dealers, or online platforms that specialize in rare coins.
