Did you know that a common coin like the 1990-D Washington Quarter could be worth $1,000 or more? It sounds too good to be true, but some 1990-D quarters have rare mistakes that make them incredibly valuable. These mistakes, called “double die” and “wing die clash” errors, can turn a regular quarter into a collector’s dream. Let’s take a look at how these rare coins became so valuable and how you can tell if you have one!
What Is a Washington Quarter?
The Washington Quarter is a U.S. coin that has been in circulation since 1932. It features a profile of George Washington on the front and an eagle on the back. The “1990-D” refers to quarters minted in 1990 at the Denver Mint, with the “D” being the mintmark indicating where the coin was made.
While most 1990-D Washington Quarters are worth just 25 cents, some are much rarer and can be worth a lot more. This is because of certain errors made during the minting process that make these coins unique.
What Are Double Die and Wing Die Clash Errors?
To understand why some 1990-D Washington Quarters are worth so much, we need to look at two types of errors: Double Die and Wing Die Clash.
Double Die Error
A double die error happens when the design of the coin is stamped more than once, causing a blurry or doubled appearance. This happens when the die (the tool used to stamp the coin) strikes the blank metal twice. The result is a coin where parts of the design, like the words or images, look duplicated.
For example, a 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die error might have the word “LIBERTY” or the date “1990” appearing twice, with the second image being slightly off-center. This mistake makes the coin special and more valuable to collectors.
Wing Die Clash Error
A wing die clash error occurs when two dies (the tools used to stamp the coin’s design) collide with each other without any metal in between. This can leave strange marks or images on the coin, which are called “clash marks.” For example, a wing die clash error on a Washington Quarter can make the eagle’s wing appear on the obverse (front) side of the coin, where it normally wouldn’t be. This unique error is very rare and adds to the coin’s value.
Why Is the 1990-D Washington Quarter with These Errors So Valuable?
The 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die or wing die clash error is so valuable because these types of errors are extremely rare. Many coins were made during the minting process, but only a few had these mistakes. As a result, collectors are willing to pay high prices to own a coin with these special features.
How Much Is the Rare 1990-D Washington Quarter Worth?
The value of a 1990-D Washington Quarter with these errors can vary depending on the condition of the coin and how clear the errors are. On eBay, a 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die and wing die clash error can sell for $1,000 or more!
Here’s a look at the value range for these coins:
| Type of Coin | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Regular 1990-D Washington Quarter | 25 cents |
| 1990-D Washington Quarter with Double Die Error | $500 to $1,000 |
| 1990-D Washington Quarter with Wing Die Clash Error | $1,000+ |
How to Spot a Rare 1990-D Washington Quarter with Errors
You might be wondering how to tell if your 1990-D Washington Quarter has a double die or wing die clash error. Here’s what to look for:
1. Examine the Date and Letters
Look closely at the year “1990” and the word “LIBERTY” on the coin. If you see any parts of the design that are doubled or blurry, it could be a double die error.
2. Check for Clash Marks
Look for strange marks or images on the coin that don’t belong. For example, you might see part of the eagle’s wing or other unexpected features on the front or back of the coin.
3. Compare with Photos Online
Search online for images of the 1990-D Washington Quarter with double die and wing die clash errors. Comparing your coin with these pictures can help you determine if you have a rare one.
How to Sell Your Rare 1990-D Washington Quarter
If you find a rare 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die or wing die clash error, you might want to sell it. Here are some ways to do it:
1. Sell on eBay
eBay is a popular place for buying and selling rare coins. You can list your coin there and reach a large audience of collectors who might be interested in buying it.
2. Visit a Coin Dealer
You can take your coin to a professional coin dealer for appraisal and potentially sell it to them. A reputable dealer can help you get a fair price.
3. Attend a Coin Show
Coin shows are events where collectors buy and sell coins. You can find a local show and bring your coin to see if anyone is interested in buying it.
Conclusion
The 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die or wing die clash error is one of the rarest and most valuable coins you can find. These mistakes turn a regular quarter into a collector’s item worth $1,000 or more. While it’s not easy to find one of these rare coins, it’s worth checking your pocket change and inspecting any 1990-D quarters you come across. Who knows? You might just have a valuable coin sitting in your pocket!
FAQs
1. What is a double die error on a coin?
A double die error happens when the coin’s design is stamped more than once, causing the design to appear doubled or blurry.
2. What is a wing die clash error?
A wing die clash error happens when two dies collide without any metal in between, leaving marks or designs on the coin that shouldn’t be there.
3. How much is a 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die error worth?
A 1990-D Washington Quarter with a double die error can be worth between $500 and $1,000, depending on the condition of the coin.
4. How can I sell my rare 1990-D Washington Quarter?
You can sell your coin on eBay, visit a coin dealer, or attend a coin show to find a buyer.
5. How do I know if I have a rare 1990-D Washington Quarter?
Look for doubled images or strange marks on the coin. If you find any unusual features, it could be a rare error coin.