The 1987-D Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from its 25-cent face value in circulated condition to over $500 in top-tier mint state grades. If you have recently emptied your pockets and noticed a “D” mint mark on a 1987 quarter, you might be holding onto more than just spare change.
Introduction to the 1987-D Washington Quarter Value
Finding a 1987-D quarter in your change is a common experience, but understanding its true market potential requires a closer look at its condition and rarity. In the world of numismatics, the “D” signifies that the coin was struck at the Denver Mint. While millions were produced for general circulation, the hunt for high-grade specimens is what drives the collector market today.
Commonly circulated coins are generally worth their face value, but if you happen to find one that looks like it just came off the press, you could be looking at a nice profit. To help you determine the exact grade of your collection, many hobbyists use the best coin identifier app to get instant feedback on their finds. Using tools like CoinHix can bridge the gap between a casual finder and a serious collector by identifying subtle surface details that the naked eye might miss.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just someone who found an old coin in a jar, knowing the current 1987 quarter price charts is essential. Collectors often pay a premium for “Mint State” (MS) coins that lack the scratches and dings typically found on coins that have been circulating for over thirty years.
Specific Grading and Price Values for Denver Mint Quarters
The value of a 1987-D Washington Quarter is heavily dependent on the Sheldon Grading Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Most quarters found in change will grade between “Fine” and “Extremely Fine,” meaning they show significant wear on Washington’s hair and the eagle’s feathers on the reverse. For these coins, the value remains at 25 cents. However, as the grade reaches MS65 and above, the price starts to climb significantly.
In the higher echelons of grading, an MS66 or MS67 specimen can fetch between $20 and $100. If you are lucky enough to find an MS68—a nearly perfect coin—the price can jump to several hundred dollars at auction. Accurate information regarding the 1987 quarter value guide shows that Denver strikes from this year are often found with better luster than their Philadelphia counterparts, making high grades slightly more attainable but still very desirable.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Good to About Uncirculated) | $0.25 |
| Mint State 63 (Uncirculated) | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Mint State 65 (Gem Uncirculated) | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Mint State 66 | $25.00 – $45.00 |
| Mint State 67+ | $150.00 – $550+ |
Key Characteristics and Possible Mint Errors
When examining your 1987-D Washington Quarter, look for specific features that might enhance its value. The 1987 quarters were composed of a “clad” sandwich of copper and nickel. Because these coins were produced in large quantities, collectors are always on the lookout for mint errors. Errors can turn an ordinary twenty-five-cent piece into a valuable treasure worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Common errors to look for include “Double Die” strikes, where the lettering or the date appears doubled. “Off-center” strikes are also highly valued; this happens when the coin blank is not properly centered in the press. If you suspect your coin has a unique flaw, the CoinHix app can help you compare your coin against known error databases to see if you have a rarity.
Another thing to check is “die cracks” or “cuds,” which appear as raised blobs of metal on the coin’s surface. While these are less common on the 1987-D issue than in other years, they still represent a niche market for error collectors. Always handle your coins by the edges to preserve their condition, as fingerprints contain oils that can damage the delicate luster of an uncirculated coin over time.
Collecting the 1987 Washington Quarter Series
Many collectors aim to complete a “Date and Mint” set of Washington Quarters, which includes one coin from each year and each mint. The 1987-D is a vital part of this collection. During the late 1980s, the United States Mint was producing coins with high efficiency, which means that while there are many coins available, finding one in “Gem” condition is quite a challenge.
If you are just starting your collection, 1987 is a great year to focus on because it is still affordable. You can often find uncirculated coins in original Mint Sets, which were sold by the U.S. Mint directly to the public. These sets contain one of every coin produced that year, often in much better condition than anything you would find in your pocket.
Using digital tools like CoinHix allows you to track your collection progress and stay updated on market trends. As the price of silver fluctuates and more people get into coin roll hunting, the demand for high-quality vintage clad quarters continues to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 1987-D Quarter
Q: Where is the mint mark located on a 1987 quarter?
A: The mint mark on a 1987 quarter is located on the right side of Washington’s neck, just behind his ponytail and above the date. A “D” indicates Denver, while a “P” indicates Philadelphia.
Q: Is a 1987-D quarter made of silver?
A: No, 1987 quarters are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. The U.S. Mint stopped making quarters for circulation out of 90% silver after 1964. However, they are still very collectible in high grades.
Q: How can I tell if my 1987-D quarter is worth more than 25 cents?
A: Check the coin for “mint luster”—a shiny, cartwheel-like reflection when you tilt it under a light. If the coin has no scratches and all the fine details of the eagle’s feathers are visible, it should be evaluated for a higher grade.
