$19,200 Washington Quarter Found – Do You Have One in Your Pocket?

$19,200 Washington Quarter Found: You may have heard the headline: “$19,200 Washington Quarter Found – Do You Have One in Your Pocket?” It sounds like something out of a coin collector’s dream—and in many ways, it is. But this isn’t just clickbait. A rare Washington Quarter actually sold for $19,200 at a professional auction. So, what’s the story behind this extraordinary coin, and could you really find one in your spare change?

In this in-depth article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this valuable coin. We’ll explore its unique features, how it was discovered, why it holds such a high value, and the steps you can take to evaluate any quarters you might have lying around. We’ll also provide trusted resources and expert recommendations so you can navigate the world of coin collecting with confidence. Whether you’re a casual coin holder, a history enthusiast, or a budding numismatist (that’s a coin collector!), this guide will offer clarity, value, and actionable advice.

$19,200 Washington Quarter Found

While the chances of finding a $19,200 Washington Quarter in your pocket are slim, it’s not entirely impossible. With some basic knowledge, a careful eye, and a sense of curiosity, you might uncover a hidden gem in your coin jar or pocket change. Learning how to properly evaluate and protect your coins opens the door to a fascinating and potentially profitable hobby. Whether you’re just beginning or have a growing collection, staying informed and using trusted grading services can help you make the most of your discoveries.

So go ahead—check your change, raid your old coin jars, and ask your family if they have any quarters stashed away from the 70s. Who knows? Your next trip to the grocery store might lead to a once-in-a-lifetime find.

What Makes the $19,200 Washington Quarter So Special?

The coin that fetched $19,200 is a 1976-S Bicentennial Washington Quarter. This coin was not your everyday pocket change. It was part of a special collector’s edition minted in San Francisco to commemorate the United States’ 200th birthday. Designed to honor the Bicentennial of American Independence, this series featured unique reverse designs showcasing a colonial drummer boy, setting them apart from regular quarters.

Here are the key traits that made this quarter stand out:

• Mint Mark: The “S” under Washington’s neck means it was minted in San Francisco.
• Composition: Unlike standard quarters made from copper-nickel clad, this version was struck with 40% silver, making it a desirable option for both collectors and investors.
• Condition: It was graded MS-69 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), meaning it’s in near-perfect, uncirculated condition. Very few coins reach this level of perfection.
• Limited Release: These coins were never released into general circulation. They were part of special Mint Sets sold directly to collectors, meaning they stayed in protective packaging and avoided wear.

The combination of rarity, historical significance, silver content, and pristine condition is what made this coin so valuable at auction. Most coins of this type are worth $5 to $25, but in mint condition, their value can multiply dramatically.

Understanding Coin Grading and Value

Coins are graded on a 70-point scale created by Dr. William Sheldon. This scale helps buyers and sellers accurately evaluate a coin’s condition and market value.

The Sheldon Grading Scale Explained:

• MS-60 to MS-70: Mint State (uncirculated). MS-70 is flawless under magnification.
• AU-50 to AU-58: About Uncirculated. Minimal signs of wear.
• XF-40 to XF-45: Extremely Fine. Light wear on high points.
• VF-20 to VF-35: Very Fine. Moderate wear, clear details.
• F-12 to F-15: Fine. More wear but still readable and collectible.
• G-4 to G-6: Good. Heavily worn, but the design is still visible.

The value of a coin increases significantly as you go up this scale. A 1976-S quarter in MS-60 might be worth $5 to $10, but one in MS-69, like the $19,200 example, can command thousands.

It’s also important to note that proof coins and error coins can have added value, even in lower grades.

How to Tell If You Have a Rare Washington Quarter

Finding a rare coin is part art, part science. You don’t need to be an expert to start, but knowing what to look for is key.

1. Check the Date

Start by examining the obverse (front) of your quarter. If it has the dual date 1776-1976, you’re looking at a Bicentennial edition.

2. Look for the Mint Mark

• “P” or no mark = Philadelphia Mint (very common)
• “D” = Denver Mint (also common)
• “S” = San Francisco Mint (check for silver!)
• The mint mark is located just below Washington’s neck, near the rim.

3. Inspect the Edge

Use a side view. Silver quarters have a solid gray edge, while copper-nickel ones show a distinct copper stripe in the middle. That copper layer instantly reveals it’s a standard clad coin.

4. Examine the Coin’s Shine and Detail

High-quality quarters will have sharp, detailed designs, little to no wear, and a mirror-like finish if they are proofs. These features often indicate uncirculated or collector versions.

5. Check for Errors or Variations

Some coins feature double dies, off-center strikes, or even minting mistakes. These so-called “error coins” can sometimes be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars on their own.

Get Your Coin Appraised and Graded

If you believe your quarter might be rare or valuable, the next step is verification. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right.

• Handle with Care: Always use cotton gloves or hold the coin by its edges. Avoid wiping or cleaning the coin, as this can damage its surface and reduce its value significantly.
• Use Online Resources for Initial Research: Before sending your coin in, compare it to images and descriptions from reputable sites like,
  • PCGS Coin Facts
  • NGC Coin Explorer
  • US Mint Official Site
• Submit to a Reputable Grading Service: Two of the most trusted services in the industry are,
  • PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
  • NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Expect to pay between $20 and $75 for basic submissions. Premium coins may require higher-tier grading services.
• Evaluate Selling Options: Once your coin is graded and authenticated, you can,
  • Sell at Auction through Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers Galleries
  • List Online on platforms like eBay (be sure to include certification details)
  • Consult a Local Dealer who specializes in rare coins

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FAQs On $19,200 Washington Quarter Found

Q1: Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?

No. While Bicentennial quarters are fun to collect, most of them were mass-produced and remain common. The ones worth real money are typically high-grade, silver, or proof versions.

Q2: Can I find a $19,200 quarter in circulation?

Extremely unlikely. The valuable 1976-S silver quarter was released only in collector’s sets. However, checking your change can still be fun and occasionally rewarding.

Q3: How can I tell if my quarter is silver?

Inspect the edge. A solid silver-colored edge without any copper core is a good indicator. You can also weigh the coin (silver quarters weigh slightly more).

Q4: How much does it cost to have a coin graded?

Grading services start at around $20-$30 for basic submissions. Faster or high-value submissions will cost more, especially with added insurance and shipping.

Q5: Can a damaged or cleaned coin still be valuable?

Generally, no. Cleaning a coin can scratch its surface and destroy its collectible value. Even rare coins drop in value dramatically if they’ve been polished or altered.

Q6: Are there other valuable quarters I should watch for?

Yes! Keep an eye out for:

• 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters
• 1950-D/S overmint mark
• 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with extra leaf error