My Laundromat Coin Haul Adventure

Just the other day, I was feeding cash into a laundromat change machine when something caught my eye—a 2015 S Blue Ridge Parkway quarter. As a long-time collector, I’ve found everyday places like laundromats often hide surprises, and this reminded me why I love the hunt. Let me tell you about what I found and what it means for folks like us.

Spotting the Difference: Proof or Business Strike?

When I first picked up the quarter, I wasn’t sure if it was a proof or regular strike. Proofs usually have that frosty, mirror-like look even after wear, but this seemed more ordinary. After checking it under good light, I’m pretty sure it’s a business strike. Here’s why:

• Surface Clues: No deep mirrors or strong contrasts you’d see on proofs, even circulated ones.
• Mint Mark Story: For these America the Beautiful quarters, the S mark can mean either proof or business strike. Business strikes from San Francisco (S) were collector-only releases between 2012-2021, but they sometimes escape into the wild.
• Metal Tells: You can spot copper on the edges—definitely clad. Silver proofs are much tougher finds!

My rule of thumb: if an S-minted coin looks clean but lacks that mirror finish, it’s likely a business strike. Always check under bright light to be sure.

Why S-Minted Quarters Are Hidden Gems

This little quarter got me thinking about the America the Beautiful series. S business strikes are actually rarer than the famous W quarters—only about a million per design—but they don’t get as much attention. Here’s what makes them special:

• Collector Value: While not as pricey as W quarters, nice uncirculated S strikes can bring a small premium. But let’s be honest—it’s more about the thrill than profit.
• Circulation Mystery: Ever wonder how these end up in laundromats? I’ll confess: collectors sometimes order mint rolls, keep the best, and spend the rest. That’s probably how this quarter landed here—I’ve found others like a Kisatchie forest quarter the same way.
• Grading Tip: Look for sharp details and original shine. Even after circulation, they can still grade well if the wear’s minimal.

Modern coins like these keep the hobby exciting—you never know what’ll turn up in your change!

My Field-Tested Coin Hunting Tips

After countless laundromat trips, I’ve learned a few things about hunting coins in public machines:

• Best Spots: Hit high-volume machines like laundromats, car washes, or arcades. I bring cash, feed the machine, and collect my quarters. Once scored a whole roll of keepers at a car wash!
• Stay Clean: Always wash up after handling coins—especially in grimy spots like laundromats. I keep sanitizer in my coin bag.
• Timing Matters: I visit a few times monthly with $100 or so. Machines supplied by banks often have fresher batches. Skip the return bins—not worth the mess or germs.

This routine’s become my secret weapon for finding cool coins.

Parting Thoughts for Fellow Hunters

Looking back at this haul, I’m reminded that collecting’s about the chase as much as the finds. S-minted business strikes add spice to modern hunting, and finding them in the wild makes ordinary errands exciting. Keep your eyes open—these little treasures show how our collector habits shape what’s out there. Happy hunting, and enjoy the adventure!