Laundromat Loot: My Hunt for Coins Like the 1964 Quarter

Lately, I’ve been spending more time at laundromats – and not just for laundry! They’ve become my unexpected treasure trove for coin hunting. My latest thrill? Finding a stunning 1964 quarter with incredible toning that photos just can’t do justice. That one coin got me hooked all over again on this surprisingly rich source for numismatic finds, and I had to share the adventure.

Why Laundromats? A Collector’s Secret Spot

Laundromats have turned into my favorite coin-hunting ground, and here’s why: many still use older, mechanical changers. You feed in a bill, get a stack of quarters, and the washers take them without complaint. Unlike newer self-checkouts or CoinStar machines that spit out silver, these old workhorses often don’t know the difference. That means you might just pull a pre-1965 silver quarter like my ’64, which is solid 90% silver. Best of all? With staff usually busy elsewhere, it’s a relaxed way to hunt.

What Works for Me: My Laundromat Routine

After about a year and a half of regular visits, I’ve figured out a system:

• Time it right: I go during off-peak hours, usually after 3 PM when things are quieter and staff might be gone. While I’ve never been questioned, it feels smarter to be discreet.
• How much cash: I typically swap $20 or $100 at a time, depending on my budget. The changer gives you rolls’ worth of quarters, which I sort later by design – eagles, states, you name it.
• How often: I try to hit a couple spots each month. It’s definitely hit or miss – maybe half the time I find something cool – but sticking with it works. Last month alone, I landed three West Point ‘W’ quarters in one go!

What I’ve Found: More Than Just Spare Change

Honestly, I’ve pulled some real surprises from laundromat machines:

• Other silver coins, like a 1941 quarter – totally blew my mind since I figured modern setups wouldn’t take them.
• Modern rarities, especially those coveted ‘W’ mint marks from West Point.
• Coins with beautiful natural toning. My ’64 quarter had this amazing iridescent finish. A quick tip: I popped it straight into an acid-free holder to keep it looking sharp.

Making It Work: Practical Tips

Want to try it yourself? Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Cost: Doing actual laundry might run you $10 or so for a couple of loads. But if you’re just swapping cash for quarters, it’s cheaper than buying bank rolls. Sure, over a year you might save enough for a washer, but I’m in it for the hunt!
• Machine Types: Most older laundromats use simple slots that don’t care about silver or fake coins. Watch out for newer spots with card-only systems – stick to places that still love quarters.
• Be cool: Just be respectful. I’ve never seen a “no coin buying” sign, but keeping it low-key avoids any potential hassle.

Checking Out Your Finds: Grading & Care

When I snagged that ’64 quarter, the first thing I did was check it over carefully. Look for sharp details and minimal wear – mine had light marks but the toning made it special. For silver, focus on the luster and surfaces; an uncirculated piece could be worth much more. I always grab some good pictures in natural light and think about professional grading for the really special ones.

Honestly, hunting coins at the laundromat is a blast – a fun, easy way to add to your collection. Give it a shot next time you pass one. You might just find your own silver surprise!