Been Awhile for Silver: Rediscovering Coin Roll Hunting Treasures
June 19, 2025My Meow Moments in Coin Roll Hunting: Surprises and Finds
June 19, 2025
I’ve been collecting coins for years, and lately, I can’t get enough of hunting for those elusive W quarters. They’ve added a whole new level of excitement to my hobby, and I thought I’d share what I’ve learned and some tips that might help you in your own search.
What Makes W Quarters So Special?
These special coins were made at the West Point mint in 2019 and 2020. They have the same America the Beautiful designs as the regular quarters, but with a tiny ‘W’ mint mark. Only 2 million of each design were made, so they’re real prizes. I love them because they’re a rare piece of recent U.S. Mint history, and finding one in your change is like discovering hidden treasure.
My Experiences with Coin Roll Hunting
Roll hunting has become my favorite way to find W quarters. I’ve spent countless evenings going through quarter rolls from my local bank, and it’s amazing what turns up. One time I spotted a W quarter in nearly perfect condition – my hands were actually shaking! Here’s what works for me:
- Start with bank rolls: Just ask your bank for uncirculated or customer-rolled quarters. It doesn’t cost much, and you never know what you’ll find.
- Check carefully: Look for that little ‘W’ mint mark near the edge. It’s easy to miss, so I always use a magnifier to be sure.
- Enjoy the hunt: You might go through box after box without finding one, but that makes the moment you do spot one even sweeter.
Challenges and What I’ve Noticed
These days, W quarters seem tougher to find in great shape. Many show wear from circulation, especially on details like the eagle’s feathers. I’ve noticed Denver-minted coins are particularly hard to find in perfect condition – maybe because of how they entered circulation. Honestly, you might search through thousands of quarters before finding one, but that’s what makes it special when you do!
Grading and Keeping Them Safe
When you score a W quarter, check it carefully to understand its value. I always examine the high points like Washington’s hair and lettering for wear. If it looks good, protect it immediately – slide it into a coin flip or holder to avoid scratches. Even worn examples can be valuable if they’re handled gently. I’ve seen lightly circulated ones still grade AU, and they’re definitely worth keeping.
Why You Should Join the Hunt
Beyond their rarity, W quarters connect us to the living history of coin collecting. I’ll never forget finding one in my own change jar – it showed me how magical this hobby can be. They’re perfect for any collector, blending history, scarcity, and the pure excitement of the chase. So next time you get quarters, give them a second look – your treasure might be waiting!
