My Hunt for the First W Quarter of the Year: A Coin Collector’s Triumph

Finding that first W quarter of the year? Pure adrenaline! That little ‘W’ mint mark still gives me the same rush every time I spot one. Sure, this one’s not perfect, but it’s worth way more than 25 cents to me – an instant highlight in my collection.

My W Quarter Hotspots

These sneaky coins pop up where you least expect them. I’ll never forget the laundromat score where I pulled three Ws from a single machine – felt like winning the lottery! Bank rolls have delivered surprises too, and just last week I added a 2020W from a coin show drawing. Moral of the story? Check your change religiously. That grocery store quarter could be your next trophy.

• Coin-op goldmines: Laundromats and car washes are circulation honey holes
• Bank roll roulette: Always worth asking for fresh quarter rolls
• Mail call miracles: Sometimes they hitchhike in with deliveries

What Makes These Quarters Special

With only two years of production from West Point (2019-2020), these are genuinely tough finds in everyday change. From what I’ve seen, even common dates like the 2020W typically fetch $10-$50 raw. When checking condition, I focus on the reverse details – crisp leaves on national park designs are my telltale sign of quality. Anything with deep scratches or heavy wear usually stays in my pocket, but mint-state finds? Straight into protective holders!

Field-Tested Hunting Strategies

After countless hunts, here’s what works: Make coin-checking part of your daily routine. Busy places with high coin turnover increase your odds, but patience is key. I’ve gone months between scores before. And please – hunt ethically! We’ve all joked about “raiding” coin returns, but never disrupt businesses or other collectors’ spaces.

The Thrill of the Hunt

Landing that annual first-W still makes me feel like a kid finding silver in my change. Whether you’re into precious metals or just love the chase, these quarters deliver excitement without breaking the bank. Here’s hoping your next coin roll coughs up that distinctive ‘W’ – happy hunting!