In a remarkable turn of events, a 1932 Washington Quarter—long forgotten in a dusty filing cabinet—has been appraised at an astonishing $20,000.
This unexpected find underscores the hidden treasures that may lie unnoticed in our everyday surroundings.
The Discovery
During a routine office reorganization, an employee stumbled upon an old filing cabinet tucked away in a storage room.
Amidst the clutter, a small envelope labeled “Old Coins” caught their attention. Inside was a 1932 Washington Quarter, remarkably well-preserved despite decades of obscurity.
Historical Significance of the 1932 Washington Quarter
The 1932 Washington Quarter holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history:
- Commemorative Issue: Introduced to honor the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.
- Design: Features a portrait of George Washington by sculptor John Flanagan.
- Composition: Minted from 90% silver and 10% copper.
- Mint Marks: Produced at three mints—Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”).
Rarity and Value
The value of a 1932 Washington Quarter varies significantly based on its mint mark and condition:
- 1932-D (Denver): Only 436,800 minted; highly sought after by collectors.
- 1932-S (San Francisco): Slightly more common with 408,000 minted.
- 1932 (Philadelphia): Highest mintage at 5,404,000 but still valuable in high grades.
In pristine condition, these coins can fetch impressive sums:
- 1932-D: Up to $75,000 in MS-66 grade.
- 1932-S: Approximately $38,400 in MS-66 grade.
The $20,000 Appraisal
The discovered coin, upon professional evaluation, was graded as MS-65, indicating a coin in mint state with only minor imperfections. Given its condition and historical significance, the coin’s value was appraised at $20,000.
Comparative Value Table
| Coin Type | Mintage | MS-65 Value | MS-66 Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 (Philadelphia) | 5,404,000 | $1,200 | $15,000 |
| 1932-D (Denver) | 436,800 | $20,000 | $75,000 |
| 1932-S (San Francisco) | 408,000 | $18,000 | $38,400 |
Note: Values are approximate and subject to market fluctuations.
Factors Influencing Value
Several factors contribute to the coin’s high valuation:
- Mint Mark: Coins from Denver and San Francisco mints are rarer.
- Condition: Higher grades (MS-65 and above) significantly increase value.
- Historical Context: As the inaugural issue of the Washington Quarter series, 1932 coins hold special appeal.
This extraordinary find serves as a compelling reminder of the hidden treasures that may reside in overlooked places.
The 1932 Washington Quarter, beyond its monetary value, offers a tangible connection to America’s rich history. For collectors and enthusiasts, it exemplifies the thrill of discovery and the enduring allure of numismatics.
FAQs
How can I determine the mint mark on a 1932 Washington Quarter?
The mint mark is located on the reverse side of the coin, below the eagle. A “D” indicates Denver, an “S” indicates San Francisco, and no mark signifies Philadelphia.
What does “MS-65” mean in coin grading?
“MS” stands for Mint State, and the number denotes the coin’s condition on a scale from 1 to 70. An MS-65 grade indicates a coin with strong luster and minimal contact marks.
Are all 1932 Washington Quarters valuable?
While all 1932 quarters have some value, those from the Denver and San Francisco mints, especially in higher grades, are particularly valuable due to their lower mintage.