My Laundromat Coin Haul: Surprises, Insights, and Numismatic Treasures

You never know where a coin adventure might begin! Mine started with a routine laundry day when I fed cash into the change machine and spotted a 2015 S Blue Ridge Parkway quarter among the clattering coins. That unexpected find sent me on a research journey every collector will recognize. Let me walk you through what I discovered about this little treasure and how it changed my approach to coin hunting.

The Thrill of the Find

During my monthly laundromat run (I usually swap about $100 for quarters), I watched the coins tumble out and immediately noticed one that stood apart. The Blue Ridge Parkway quarter had unusually sharp details and that distinctive S mint mark. Though I could see the copper edge confirming it wasn’t silver, its condition made my collector’s instincts kick in. Moments like this are why I always check everyday change – car washes, parking meters, vending machines – you’d be amazed what escapes into circulation!

Deciphering Proof vs. Business Strike

My first puzzle was figuring out whether this was a proof or business strike. Proofs usually keep that telltale mirror-like shine even after years in pockets, while business strikes look like regular quarters. Here’s what helped me crack the case:

• The surfaces showed typical wear for a circulated coin – nice shape but missing that liquid-mirror effect
• Remember that San Francisco minted both proofs and special clad business strikes for collector sets
• My rule of thumb? If it’s lost that frosty contrast, it’s almost certainly a business strike

Turned out I’d found an S-minted business strike – technically not meant for circulation, but collectors sometimes spend them!

Insights on S-Minted Quarters and Rarity

Digging into the story behind these coins revealed something interesting. Between 2012-2021, the Mint produced about a million of these S business strikes per design for the America the Beautiful series. They’re actually scarcer than individual W quarters but don’t command the same premiums – maybe $5-$10 in mint state. What fascinates me is how they enter circulation. I picture collectors buying rolls, keeping the finest examples, and spending the rest. That’s likely how my laundromat quarter ended up in a change machine! It’s a great reminder to always check S-minted coins.

Practical Tips for Collectors

Want to try your luck? Here’s what I’ve learned works best when hunting in the wild:

• Stick to change machines at laundromats or car washes – much less awkward than rooting through return bins
• Wash your hands right after handling coins! These things pass through countless pockets
• Make it routine. My monthly $100 exchange has turned up several keepers over time
• Train your eyes to spot sharp details and unusual mint marks in everyday change

Market Observations and Final Thoughts

Finding any S-minted business strike in circulation feels like a small victory. While it won’t retire you early, it adds character to your collection and shows how mintages affect rarity. My laundry day surprise reminded me that numismatic magic hides in plain sight. Next time you’re fishing for quarters, take an extra second to look – your own coin story might be waiting!