My First W Quarter Find of the Year: Thrills and Practical Insights

Finding my first W quarter of the year the other day gave me that rush only collectors understand – like uncovering buried treasure in plain sight! As someone who’s chased these elusive coins for years, this little victory got me thinking about why they’re special and how to spot them.

Why These Quarters Make Collectors’ Hearts Race

Even though my find wasn’t mint-state perfect, that tiny ‘W’ mint mark means it’s automatically worth more than 25 cents. These West Point quarters (released 2019-2020 for the America the Beautiful series) are genuinely tough to find in the wild. With fewer than 2 million made per design, they typically sell for $5 to $20 in circulated condition – sometimes more for certain park designs. Always flip the coin over; the reverse artwork adds personality and can swing the value.

Field-Tested Hunting Strategies

• Check high-traffic spots: I’ve had my best luck at laundromats where coins constantly cycle through. Once scored three W quarters from a single load – talk about beginner’s luck! But consistent checking pays off.
• Watch for giveaways: Don’t sleep on coin club contests or online promotions. I added a 2020 W to my collection this way with zero effort.
• Inspect bank rolls and mail: Those quarter rolls from your bank? Goldmines. Even the coins jingling in delivery packages deserve a look – surprises hide in plain sight.

Straight Talk From the Trenches

Here’s what I’ve noticed: W quarters remain white whales for many collectors, but they’re definitely circulating if you stay alert. Make checking for the ‘W’ mint mark part of your daily routine, and handle finds gently – even worn examples command premiums. When examining condition, look for crisp details on high points like eagles’ wings. A quick swish in distilled water can reveal surface quality (just pat dry immediately!). At its heart, this hobby blends patience with possibility. Keep looking down – your next W quarter might be in your change right now!