You might be surprised to learn that an old 25-cent coin sitting in your junk drawer could be worth more than your monthly rent. The 1964 Washington quarter, especially in pristine condition, can fetch up to $38,500. That is not a typo.
Why is the 1964 quarter so valuable?
Back in the day, these coins were made with 90% silver. After 1964, the U.S. Mint switched to cheaper materials—mainly copper and nickel—because silver became too expensive. So if you have a quarter from 1964 or earlier, it has actual silver in it. That alone makes it more valuable than a modern quarter. But the real jackpot? That comes down to the condition of the coin and where it was minted.
What makes a 1964 quarter worth $38,500?
Now here’s the part that really matters. Most 1964 quarters are worth more than face value just because of their silver content. But a specific version—one that was minted in Denver and is in nearly perfect condition—is the real treasure.
You need to look for a small “D” mint mark on the coin’s reverse side (that means it was made at the Denver Mint). Then, check its condition. If it looks brand new, untouched, with no scratches or wear, you could be sitting on a goldmine.
Here’s what the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) says you could get depending on the condition of your 1964-D quarter:
- MS-62: up to $12
- MS-63: up to $14
- MS-64: up to $24
- MS-65: up to $30
- MS-66: up to $65
- MS-67: up to $475
- MS-68: up to $38,500
That last one is extremely rare. But it exists, and someone has already cashed in. So yes, that coin in your old jeans pocket could be worth thousands.
How can you tell if your 1964 quarter is valuable?
The best thing you can do right now is grab a magnifying glass and start checking those old quarters. You are looking for three key things:
- The Date: It must say 1964.
- The Mint Mark: Flip the coin over and look for a tiny “D” beneath the eagle’s tail.
- The Condition: Is the surface smooth and shiny? Are there any scratches, dents, or worn-out spots?
If your coin looks like it just left the mint, it might be worth getting professionally graded. But before you spend money, take it to a local coin dealer or reach out to a collector’s group. They can give you a free estimate and let you know if it is worth grading.
Where can you sell a valuable 1964 quarter?
Once you are sure you have a high-grade coin, there are a few places to make serious money:
- Online auction sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions
- Coin shows where collectors are willing to pay premium prices
- Local coin shops that buy and sell rare coins
Just make sure you do your research. Selling to the right buyer can mean the difference between $65 and $6,500—or even more.
Are all silver quarters worth money?
Not all of them will make you rich, but any quarter minted before 1965 contains real silver and is usually worth more than 25 cents. Right now, the silver content alone makes those coins worth about $4–$5 each, depending on the market.
But keep in mind, the big money comes from rarity and condition. If you find a 1964 quarter in mint condition, especially with that Denver “D,” you could be holding a small fortune.
