The 1982-S Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 in circulated condition to over $5 in mint state — but the proof version can fetch $3 to $10 or more depending on quality. If you found one in an old coin collection or proof set, you might be sitting on a small but satisfying treasure worth knowing more about.
What Makes the 1982-S Washington Quarter Special
The “S” mintmark on a Washington Quarter tells you it was made at the San Francisco Mint. In 1982, the San Francisco Mint was not producing quarters for everyday circulation — instead, it was focused on striking proof coins for collectors.
That means if you have a 1982-S quarter, it’s almost certainly a proof coin, not a common pocket-change piece. Proof coins are specially made with polished dies and carefully prepared planchets, giving them a mirror-like finish that regular coins just don’t have.
This distinction matters a lot when it comes to value. A well-preserved 1982-S proof quarter in its original packaging is worth considerably more than face value, and if it grades PR-69 or higher, collectors will pay a premium. Using a free coin identifier app is a great first step if you’re not sure what you have — it can help you identify the mint mark and condition in seconds.
How Much Is the 1982-S Washington Quarter Worth Today
Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what the 1982-S Washington Quarter is worth in various grades and conditions:
| Grade / Condition | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 (Proof) | Clad Proof | $3 – $5 |
| PR-67 (Proof) | Clad Proof | $5 – $8 |
| PR-69 (Proof) | Clad Proof | $8 – $15 |
| PR-70 (Perfect Proof) | Clad Proof | $20 – $50+ |
| Circulated (if found) | Any | Face value – $1 |
For a deeper look at current market prices and graded sales data for Washington Quarters from 1982, it’s worth checking recent auction results and certified coin databases to see what buyers are actually paying.
Proof Coins vs. Business Strike Quarters — Know the Difference
A lot of people ask: “How do I know if my 1982 quarter is a proof?” It’s a fair question, and the answer is usually pretty obvious once you know what to look for.
Proof coins have a deeply reflective, mirror-like background (called the “field”) with frosted, sharp design elements on top. The contrast between the two is stunning — it’s not something that happens by accident or with normal coin production.
If your 1982-S quarter looks shiny all over in a flat, worn way, it may have just been cleaned — and cleaned coins are worth much less to collectors. But if it has that sharp, glassy look with visible frosting on Washington’s portrait, you’ve got a genuine proof.
CoinKnow is a handy app that helps everyday collectors identify whether a coin is a proof or business strike just by analyzing photos. It’s especially useful when you’re sorting through an old collection and need quick, reliable answers.
Does the 1982-S Quarter Have Any Errors Worth Money
Error coins from the 1982-S series are rare, but they do exist. The most talked-about 1982 quarter errors involve the 1982-P and 1982-D business strike issues — like the “No P” Roosevelt dime error that made headlines that year — but Washington Quarter errors are less common.
Still, collectors and dealers occasionally find 1982-S proof quarters with die cracks, doubled die features, or other minor anomalies. These can push value well beyond typical proof prices.
If you think your coin might have an error, examine it under a loupe or magnifying glass and look for doubling on the lettering or date. You can also use CoinKnow to scan your coin and compare it to reference images — it’s a fast way to catch something that a quick glance might miss.
For a full breakdown of 1982 Washington Quarter values across all mint marks and grades, including error varieties, that resource covers a lot of ground in plain language.
Tips for Selling or Storing Your 1982-S Washington Quarter
If your 1982-S quarter is still in its original proof set packaging from the U.S. Mint, keep it that way. The original holder protects the coin and signals to buyers that it’s never been mishandled.
If the coin is loose, store it in a coin flip or airtight capsule — avoid PVC holders, which can cause chemical damage over time. Never clean your coins, as this almost always reduces their collector value.
When it’s time to sell, you have options: local coin shops, online platforms like eBay, or coin shows where dealers compete for inventory. For rarer high-grade examples, submitting to PCGS or NGC for professional grading can significantly increase buyer confidence — and your final sale price. CoinKnow can help you estimate value before you make that call.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 1982-S Washington Quarter rare?
A: It’s not rare in the traditional sense — millions were minted as part of proof sets — but it’s uncommon in circulation because it was made only for collectors. High-grade examples (PR-69 and above) are harder to find and worth more.
Q: Can I find a 1982-S quarter in pocket change?
A: It’s very unlikely. The San Francisco Mint only struck proof coins in 1982, so these quarters were sold in special sets, not released into circulation. If you found one in change, someone probably spent it from a broken-up proof set.
Q: What should I do if I think my 1982-S quarter is worth a lot?
A: First, don’t clean it. Then assess the condition honestly or use an app like CoinKnow to get a quick read. If it grades PR-68 or higher, consider submitting it to a professional grading service before selling — certified coins almost always sell for more.
