The 2009-S Guam Quarter is worth anywhere from $0.50 in circulated condition to over $500 for a perfect specimen. While most pocket change examples are worth face value, the “S” mint mark indicates specialized production that often commands a premium among collectors.
| Condition/Type | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Clad) | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Uncirculated (MS65) | $1.00 – $3.00 |
| Proof (S Mint Clad) | $3.00 – $7.00 |
| Silver Proof (S Mint) | $15.00 – $35.00 |
The History and Significance of the 2009-S Guam Quarter
The 2009 Guam Quarter is part of the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Program. This series followed the famous 50 State Quarters program. It honored the diverse geography and culture of the American territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa.
If you have found one of these coins in your change, the first thing to check is the mint mark. Most Guam quarters were struck in Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D). However, the San Francisco (S) mint produced specific versions aimed at collectors.
To quickly verify if your find is a rare variety, many hobbyists use the best coin identifier app to scan the surface details and identify the specific finish.
The design features the outline of the island of Guam, a flying proa (a traditional sailing vessel), and a latte stone. These elements represent the Chamorro culture and the resilience of the local people. Knowing the historical context helps understand why the CoinHix app lists certain grades as highly desirable.
Identifying the 2009-S Guam Proof Quarters
There are actually two different types of 2009-S Guam quarters. Both were struck at the San Francisco mint, but they differ significantly in their metal composition and market value. Identifying which one you have is crucial for an accurate appraisal.
The first type is the Clad Proof. These are made of a copper-nickel sandwich, just like regular quarters. They have a mirror-like finish and a frosted design. While they are beautiful, they were produced in larger numbers than the silver versions.
The second type is the Silver Proof. These are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. You can usually tell the difference by looking at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver color without a copper stripe, you likely have the more valuable silver version.
Collectors often use professional tools to verify weight and authenticity. If you are unsure, checking the detailed 2009-S Guam Quarter price guides can provide visual cues to distinguish between clad and silver proofs.
| Composition | Weight | Mintage Count |
|---|---|---|
| Copper-Nickel Clad | 5.67 grams | 2,113,490 |
| 90% Silver | 6.25 grams | 993,584 |
Grading and Condition Impacts 2009-S Value
In the world of coin collecting, condition is king. A 2009-S Guam quarter that has been handled and scratched is only worth a fraction of one that is still in its original US Mint packaging.
Coin grading uses a scale from 1 to 70. A grade of PR70 (Proof 70) indicates a perfect coin with no visible flaws under 5x magnification. For the 2009-S Guam Silver Quarter, a PR70 grade can skyrocket the value into the hundreds of dollars.
Most “S” mint quarters found in circulation are considered “impaired proofs.” This means they were originally in a collector set but were broken out and spent. These typically sell for $1 to $2 because they have scratches and lose their original luster.
Using an app like CoinHix can help you learn how to spot “cameo” contrast. This is where the design looks white and “frosted,” while the background is deep and “mirrored.” High contrast usually leads to higher auction prices.
Modern Rarity: Mint Errors on the 2009-S Guam Quarter
While the San Francisco mint has very high quality control, errors do occasionally slip through. Error hunters look for “Double Dies” or “Off-Center Strikes.”
On the 2009-S Guam Quarter, look closely at the lettering “GUAM” and “TANO I MAN CHAMORRO.” If you see a slight doubling of the letters, you might have a Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) or Reverse (DDR).
Another rare occurrence is a “Proof on a Clad Planchet” error where a silver coin’s dies were used on a standard copper-nickel blank. These are extremely rare and require professional authentication or a high-end mobile scanner like CoinHix to verify.
If you suspect your coin has a physical deformity from the factory, don’t clean it! Cleaning a coin destroys its numismatic value. Keep it in a protective sleeve and consult a professional.
| Grade (Silver Proof) | Estimated Market Price |
|---|---|
| PR65 (Average Proof) | $12.00 |
| PR68 (Near Perfect) | $25.00 |
| PR69 (Exceptional) | $45.00 |
| PR70 (Perfect) | $200.00+ |
How to Sell Your 2009-S Guam Quarter
If you have determined that your coin is worth more than twenty-five cents, your next step is finding a buyer. For common clad proofs found in change, local coin shops might not be interested unless they are buying in bulk.
For silver proofs or high-grade coins, online marketplaces like eBay are a popular choice. However, you must take high-quality photos that show the mint mark and the surface condition clearly.
Auctions are usually reserved for coins graded by third-party services like PCGS or NGC. If your 2009-S Guam Quarter is in a plastic “slab” with a grade of 70, you could see competitive bidding at a professional auction house.
Always remember to factor in shipping and insurance costs when selling. Sometimes, the sentimental value of having a complete set of territory quarters is worth more than the small profit from a single sale.
| Selling Channel | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local Coin Shop | Instant cash | Lower payout (wholesale) |
| eBay | Market prices | Fees and shipping work |
| Heritage Auctions | Best for high grades | Long wait times |
Summary of 2009 Washington Quarter Collectors Trends
2009 was a unique year for the U.S. Mint. Because of the economic recession, mintage numbers for all 2009 quarters (including the P and D business strikes) were significantly lower than in previous years.
This lower mintage across the board has made the entire 2009 set, including the Guam quarter, more desirable to collectors today. Even circulated “P” or “D” Guam quarters can often sell for $0.50 to $1.00 simply because they are harder to find than a 1999 or 2000 quarter.
Building a complete collection of the 2009 Territory quarters is a great gateway into the hobby. Whether you found a 2009-S in a roll or inherited a silver proof set, these coins represent a fascinating moment in American numismatic history.
Frequently Asked Questions
### Q: How can I tell if my 2009-S Guam Quarter is silver or clad?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If you see a copper-red stripe, it is a clad coin. If the edge is solid silver-colored, it is likely the 90% silver version. You can also weigh it; a silver quarter weighs 6.25g, while a clad one weighs 5.67g.
### Q: Is a 2009-S Guam Quarter rare?
A: While over 2 million clad proofs were made, they are not found in daily circulation often. They are considered “semi-numismatic.” The silver versions are rarer, with less than 1 million minted.
### Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 2009-S Guam Quarter?
A: High-grade silver proofs in PR70 Deep Cameo condition have sold for over $500 at major auctions, though most average proof specimens sell for between $10 and $30.
### Q: Can I spend a 2009-S Guam Quarter?
A: Yes, it is legal tender worth 25 cents. However, it is worth at least double that to a collector, so it is better to save it or sell it to a coin shop.
### Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2009 Guam Quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the “heads” (obverse) side, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail, just below the “In God We Trust” motto. Look for a tiny “S.”
