As an avid coin collector, one of the most common questions I get is: "What is my 1972 quarter worth?" The simple answer is that a regular 1972 Washington quarter in circulated condition is worth only face value of 25 cents. However, some 1972 quarters are worth much more due to their pristine condition, scarce varieties, or rare errors and varieties.
In this ultimate guide, we‘ll dive deep into everything you need to know about 1972 quarter values. We‘ll explore the coin‘s rich history and mintage, breakdown the values for each variety across different condition grades, reveal the errors and variations that make some 1972 quarters incredibly valuable, and provide some expert tips on how to find these treasures hiding in pocket change or old collections.
By the end, you‘ll know how to spot the difference between a 25-cent quarter and one potentially worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let‘s get started!
History of the 1972 Washington Quarter
First, a little background. The Washington quarter was first struck in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America‘s first president. The 25-cent coin featured a left-facing bust of George Washington on the obverse (front) based on a famous sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon. The reverse depicts a majestic eagle with wings spread perched on a bundle of arrows with two olive sprigs. This iconic design by John Flanagan was used on quarters for over 50 years until the 50 State Quarters program began in 1999.
In 1972, the U.S. Mint struck Washington quarters at three facilities: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark). Here are the original mintage figures for each variety that year:
- 1972 Philadelphia (no mintmark) – 215,048,000
- 1972-D Denver – 311,067,732
- 1972-S San Francisco (proof) – 3,260,996
As you can see, a huge number of quarters were produced in 1972, especially in Denver. This high mintage means that many 1972 quarters survived in tip-top condition and are not especially rare. However, there are still some very valuable 1972 quarters out there for astute collectors to cherrypick.
1972 Quarter Value by Variety & Condition
The value of any coin depends on two main factors: the variety or specific version of the coin and its condition or grade. Here‘s a rundown of the three main varieties of 1972 quarters and a ballpark of what they‘re worth in different conditions:
1972 Quarter (No Mintmark)
Circulated (worn): 25 cents
Average Uncirculated (MS-63): $5.25
Choice/Gem Uncirculated (MS-65): $20
Superb Uncirculated (MS-66): $40
Stunning Uncirculated (MS-67+): $1,500+
1972-D Quarter
Circulated: 25 cents
Average Uncirculated (MS-63): $5.25
Choice/Gem Uncirculated (MS-65): $15
Superb Uncirculated (MS-66): $30
Stunning Uncirculated (MS-67+): $350+
1972-S Proof Quarter
Circulated/Impaired Proof: $1
PR-65 (Gem Proof): $5
PR-67 Deep Cameo: $15
PR-68 Ultra Cameo: $25
PR-69 Ultra Cameo: $120
As you can see, circulated 1972 quarters that you‘ll find in pocket change are only worth their face value of 25 cents. Uncirculated quarters jump up in value but still only trade for around $5 unless in pristine mint state with no nicks, scratches or blemishes.
The most valuable regular issue 1972 quarters are those in MS-67 or higher grades. In January 2014, a 1972-D quarter graded an astounding MS-68 by PCGS sold for $3,055. That‘s currently the auction record for the most valuable 1972 quarter.
For comparison, the record for a 1972 (P) no mintmark quarter in MS-67+ condition is $1,320 according to PCGS CoinFacts. Meanwhile, the finest known 1972-S proof quarter graded PR-69 Ultra Cameo is valued around $120.
1972 Quarter Errors & Varieties To Look For
Some of the most desirable and valuable 1972 quarters are those with mint errors or die varieties. While uncommon, these anomalies can turn an otherwise ordinary quarter into a highly sought-after rarity. Here are some of the most important error types to look for:
1972 Doubled Die Quarters
Doubled dies occur when the coin die imprints two slightly offset images onto the blank coin, creating a doubling effect. Check the lettering and devices for signs of a doubled image, especially on the words "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST". A genuine doubled die quarter can sell for $25 to over $100 depending on the magnitude of the doubling.
1972 Off-Center Quarters
Off-center errors happen when the blank coin isn‘t perfectly centered between the dies before striking. This misalignment causes the design to be struck off-kilter and not fully on the coin. The value depends on how far off-center the design is struck. A 10% off-center may fetch $20 while a dramatic 50% off-center could be worth $250 or more.
1972 Broadstrike Quarters
A broadstrike error occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar die, resulting in a wider, flatter coin that‘s missing the usual reeded edge. Instead, a broadstrike quarter will have a flat, smooth edge. These oversized errors are worth $20 to $30 depending on the amount of extra metal.
1972 Clipped Planchet Quarters
Sometimes the coin blank gets clipped or cut before striking, resulting in a straight or curved clip on the coin‘s edge. The value depends on the size and location of the clip. A small clip may add $3-$5 in value while a large, dramatic clip could push the coin‘s worth over $100.
Keep in mind that these are just a few of the many possible mint errors and varieties that can occur. Other errors like die cracks, cuds, missing clad layers, and off-metal strikes are also possible. Anytime you notice something odd or unusual about a 1972 quarter, it‘s worth having an error coin expert take a look.
Tips For Finding Valuable 1972 Quarters
Now that you know what to look for, here are some tips for uncovering valuable 1972 quarters:
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Always check your change. Rare quarters can turn up in circulation, so get in the habit of scanning your pocket change. Focus on quarters that look like they were never used.
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Bust open coin rolls from your bank. This is a great way to search through large quantities of quarters without having to pay a big premium.
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Attend local coin shows or club meetings. Network with other collectors and dealers for leads on high-grade or error quarters coming up for sale.
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Consider buying 1972 mint sets or proof sets. These uncirculated sets are the best source for high-grade quarters. A 1972 mint set retails for around $10 to $15.
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Get coins professionally graded. If you think you have a rare or high-grade 1972 quarter, send it to a reputable third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC. They will authenticate, grade and encapsulate the coin in a plastic holder, giving you peace of mind.
Are 1972 Quarters Good Investments?
Ultimately, that‘s up to you to decide. Most circulated and lower grade uncirculated 1972 quarters are relatively common and have limited investment potential. However, ultra high-grade examples in MS-67 or better can be decent investment vehicles or trophy coins for registry set collectors. Error coins are also highly sought-after by collectors.
As with all coins, prices are ultimately determined by supply and demand. Do your own research, buy the best quality you can afford, and be patient. Over time, the most pristine and attractive examples tend to appreciate in value. But collecting coins should be more about the thrill of the hunt and appreciating these historical works of art up close.
The real value of any coin is in the joy it brings you. Hopefully this guide helps you understand the 1972 quarter a little better and adds to your excitement as a collector. Happy hunting!
