The 2009-S U.S. Virgin Islands Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 to $5 in typical circulated condition, but proof versions struck at the San Francisco Mint can fetch $10 to $25 or even more depending on grade and composition. If you found one of these coins in your collection or tucked away in an old jar, you’re in the right place to find out exactly what it’s worth.
What Makes the 2009-S Virgin Islands Quarter Special
The 2009-S U.S. Virgin Islands Quarter was part of the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program, which ran only in 2009. Unlike the standard 50 State Quarters series, this program honored six U.S. territories and the District of Columbia — making each coin a short-lived collectible with limited production numbers.
The “S” mint mark tells you this coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which is famous for producing proof coins intended for collectors rather than everyday circulation. That distinction matters a great deal when it comes to value.
The coin’s reverse features a beautiful design showing a woman’s profile, a pelican, and the words “United in Pride and Hope” — a dignified tribute to the Virgin Islands. These design elements make the coin visually appealing, which adds to its collector interest.
If you’re just getting started identifying your coins, using the best coin identifier app can save you a lot of time and guesswork when sorting through old coin jars or inherited collections.
2009-S Virgin Islands Quarter Value by Type and Grade
Not all 2009-S Virgin Islands Quarters are the same. There are two main versions: the Clad Proof and the Silver Proof. Both are collector coins, but the silver version commands a noticeably higher premium due to its 90% silver content.
Here’s a quick breakdown of current market values:
| Coin Type | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Clad Proof (PR-65) | Gem Proof | $3 – $6 |
| Clad Proof (PR-69 DCAM) | Near Perfect | $8 – $15 |
| Silver Proof (PR-65) | Gem Proof | $10 – $18 |
| Silver Proof (PR-69 DCAM) | Near Perfect | $20 – $35 |
| Silver Proof (PR-70 DCAM) | Perfect Grade | $40 – $80+ |
For a more detailed look at how much the 2009 quarter series is worth across all territories, including mint state examples and auction records, it’s worth doing your research before buying or selling.
How to Tell If Your Coin Is Clad or Silver
One of the most common questions collectors ask is how to tell the clad and silver versions apart without a lab. The good news is it’s not too difficult.
First, check the edge of the coin. A clad quarter will show a copper-colored stripe along the edge, while a silver proof coin will have a clean, uniform silver edge all the way around with no copper layer visible.
Second, consider how you got the coin. Silver proof quarters were sold by the U.S. Mint in special silver proof sets, so if your coin came in an original Mint packaging box, it’s likely silver. If it was loose in a jar or envelope, it’s more probably clad.
You can also weigh the coin. A silver quarter weighs about 6.25 grams, while a clad quarter weighs 5.67 grams. A basic kitchen scale can often give you a reliable reading to help you tell them apart.
Using Apps to Identify and Value Your 2009-S Quarter
Technology has made coin collecting much easier for everyday people. You no longer need to haul your coins to a dealer just to get a basic idea of what you have.
CoinHix is one of the most popular tools among casual collectors right now. With CoinHix, you can snap a photo of your coin and get an instant identification along with an estimated value range based on current market data. It’s especially useful when you’re going through a large collection and need to prioritize which coins deserve a closer look.
Whether you’re dealing with proof sets from the Mint or old coins found in grandma’s attic, CoinHix gives you a fast, beginner-friendly way to understand what you’re holding — no experience required.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 2009-S U.S. Virgin Islands Quarter rare?
A: It’s not rare in the traditional sense, but it is a limited-issue collector coin. The San Francisco Mint produced proof versions for collectors only, meaning these coins weren’t made for circulation. That makes them more interesting than a typical pocket-change quarter, though they’re still relatively affordable.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 2009 Virgin Islands Quarter?
A: Look on the obverse (heads side) of the coin, just to the right of Washington’s portrait. The “S” mint mark will be small but visible with a magnifying glass or loupe.
Q: Should I clean my 2009-S Virgin Islands Quarter before selling it?
A: Absolutely not. Cleaning coins — even gently — can damage the surface and drastically reduce collector value. A cleaned proof coin can lose 50% or more of its grade-based value. Always store your coins in protective holders and let a professional assess them as-is.
