1936 Quarter Coin Value Explained: Potentially Worth $9,000

1936 Quarter Value Guide

In 1931, the U.S. Congress approved the production of a special quarter to honor George Washington’s bicentennial. Initially intended as a commemorative issue for one year, the design became a permanent replacement for the Standing Liberty quarter in 1934.

Today, the Washington quarter is one of the longest-running coin designs in the history of American currency. Although the 1936 quarter was produced in large quantities, its age and silver content still make it a sought-after piece for collectors. Some rare and high-grade versions of this coin have sold for tens of thousands of dollars.

1936 Quarter Value Chart

Condition plays a significant role in the value of a 1936 Washington quarter. While common circulated coins still fetch more than face value due to their silver content, rare high-grade examples can be worth a great deal.

Coins struck in Denver and San Francisco tend to be more valuable, especially in uncirculated or near-perfect condition. The chart below gives an overview of how these coins are valued by mint mark and condition.

1936 Washington Quarter Value Breakdown

Although over 50 million quarters were minted in 1936, the Philadelphia Mint was responsible for the vast majority. Philadelphia also produced all the proof coins for that year, while the Denver and San Francisco Mints minted fewer coins, increasing their collectible value. The differences in mintage contribute significantly to the variation in values among these coins.

1936 No Mint Mark Washington Quarter

The Philadelphia Mint produced around 41.3 million regular quarters in 1936. Even though they are not particularly rare, their age and silver composition boost their worth well above face value. In lower circulated grades, these coins may be worth between $5 and $20.

However, uncirculated versions—particularly those graded MS 67 or higher—can command prices from $20 to $350 or more. A coin graded MS 68, while rare, could reach a market value as high as $9,000.

1936 Washington Proof Quarter

In 1936, the Philadelphia Mint also released a limited mintage of just 3,837 proof quarters. These coins are highly prized among collectors due to their rarity and exceptional finish. Proof coins from this year, depending on their grade, can range from about $400 for PR 60 to over $6,000 for those graded PR 67.

One record-setting proof quarter sold at auction in 2002 for $10,925, showcasing the high value potential of these limited-edition coins.

1936 D Washington Quarter

The Denver Mint minted 5,374,000 quarters in 1936. Lower-grade examples are often similar in price to those from Philadelphia, but values rise dramatically in higher grades.

Uncirculated coins from Denver can range from around $490 to over $3,000, depending on the condition. A top-tier example from this mint, graded MS 67, reached a sale price of $17,250 in 2004, reflecting its rarity and quality.

1936 S Washington Quarter

San Francisco produced the fewest 1936 quarters, with a mintage of just 3,828,000. These coins are considered the rarest of the 1936 Washington quarter series and are particularly valuable in higher grades.

Prices for these coins can range from around $85 to more than $1,100 in mint state, and a coin graded MS 68 could bring in as much as $31,000. A 1936 S quarter once sold for $31,200 at auction in 2021, setting a record for the series.

1936 Washington Quarter Errors

Although not commonly associated with error coins, the 1936 Washington quarter does include a few notable mistakes that are highly collectible.

These errors can greatly enhance a coin’s value, especially when found in excellent condition. Collectors should watch for these rare anomalies as they can be worth significantly more than standard issues.

1936 Washington Quarter Doubled Die

A standout error for this coin is the doubled die obverse (DDO), where the coin’s design appears duplicated due to a misalignment during the striking process.

These are among the most desirable errors for the 1936 quarter. Coins with this error in high mint state grades have sold for thousands. For instance, a coin graded MS 66 DDO fetched $6,600 at auction in 2018. Depending on grade, values for DDO coins can range from around $900 to over $3,000.

Off-Center Errors

Another type of minting error to look out for is the off-center strike. These errors can vary in percentage, with those showing about 50% off-center being the most collectible.

In rare cases, coins may feature both a doubled die and off-center strike, which significantly increases their desirability and market value among collectors due to their uniqueness and rarity.

History of the 1936 Washington Quarter

The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 and became a standard design in 1934, replacing the Standing Liberty design. The coin was issued by the mints in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, and was created to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday.

Composed of 90% silver, the coin became a staple of American coinage. Over time, this piece has gained historical and monetary value due to its design, composition, and association with American heritage.

How to Identify the 1936 Washington Quarter

Identifying a 1936 Washington quarter is fairly straightforward. These coins are composed of 90% silver and feature a profile of George Washington on the obverse and an eagle with spread wings on the reverse.

The mint mark, if present, can be found beneath the olive branches on the reverse side. Coins without a mint mark were struck in Philadelphia, while those with a “D” or “S” were produced in Denver or San Francisco, respectively.

Conclusion

The 1936 Washington quarter may not be extremely rare, but its value rises substantially in higher grades or with unique errors.

Of particular note are coins from the San Francisco Mint in MS 68 condition, which can reach values of over $30,000. Whether you are a long-time numismatist or a novice coin enthusiast, the 1936 quarter is a historically rich and potentially valuable piece to include in your collection.

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