My First W Quarter Discovery of the Year: Thrills and Tips

You know that jolt of excitement when you spot something special in your pocket change? That’s exactly how I felt finding my first W quarter this year. As someone who’s spent years hunting coins, there’s nothing quite like uncovering these modern treasures in everyday circulation. Let me share what I’ve learned to help you in your own search.

Where to Hunt for W Quarters

Despite being minted at West Point, W quarters are still out there hiding in plain sight. Through trial and error, I’ve found some reliable spots:

• Laundromats are my secret weapon – just last month I found three W quarters in a single load of forgotten change!
• Always give your change a quick glance after purchases. You’d be surprised how often they turn up in ordinary transactions.
• Don’t overlook coin roll hunting or local collector swaps – sometimes the easiest finds come through community connections.

Understanding Value and Condition

Even a well-circulated W quarter typically brings $10-20, but condition makes all the difference. Here’s what I check when examining a find:

• Focus on the reverse details – wear on features like the bat at Oklahoma’s Tallgrass Prairie significantly impacts value.
• Look for that distinctive mint luster and avoid coins with heavy bag marks. An MS-65 specimen can easily triple a circulated coin’s worth.
• Hang onto 2019 and 2020 issues especially – their lower mintages make them the stars of this series.

My Field Notes

I still remember the thrill of spotting that distinctive W mintmark in a laundromat coin tray. That moment reminded me why we do this – it’s not just about the coin, but the chase. My advice? Start small. Check your coffee change daily. That first discovery will fuel your passion like nothing else.

Parting Thoughts

Finding a W quarter feels like winning a tiny lottery – and the tickets are free! Stay observant during everyday transactions, enjoy the hunt, and remember: every coin has traveled through countless hands to reach yours. Here’s to your next great find!