Rare $950K 1983-P Quarter with Double Die Reverse Found at a Car Wash Picture finding a quarter worth $950,000 while cleaning your car! A rare 1983-P Washington quarter with a doubled die reverse was recently discovered at a car wash, stunning collectors with its massive value. This ordinary-looking coin, part of the everyday change we often ignore, turned out to be a treasure due to a minting error. Here’s what makes this coin so special and how you can check your change for a similar jackpot.
The 1983-P Quarter Story
The 1983-P Washington quarter, minted in Philadelphia, is part of the long-running series honoring George Washington. Over 673 million were made, so most are worth just 25 cents. But a rare error called a “doubled die reverse” makes some stand out. This error happens when the coin’s back design is stamped twice, slightly off, causing doubled letters or images. The car wash find, spotted by a Florida man in his car’s change holder, is one of these rare gems, valued at $950,000 for its rarity and condition.
The Car Wash Discovery
Earlier this year, a man at a Florida car wash emptied his car’s change holder before vacuuming and noticed a 1983 quarter with odd lettering. Using a magnifying glass at home, he saw doubling on the back, especially in words like “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” After research and expert appraisal, it was confirmed as a 1983-P doubled die reverse quarter. This coin, now set for auction, could fetch $950,000 or more due to its near-mint condition and rare error.
How to Spot a Valuable Quarter
To find a rare 1983-P quarter, check these features:
- Mint Mark: Look for a “P” under Washington’s ponytail on the front.
- Doubled Die Reverse: Use a magnifying glass to spot doubling in the lettering or eagle on the back, especially “E PLURIBUS UNUM” or “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
- Condition: Coins graded MS-65 or higher by PCGS or NGC are worth the most.
Don’t clean the coin if you find one—cleaning lowers its value. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service for appraisal. A doubled die quarter in top shape could be worth thousands or even close to a million.
Where to Look for These Coins
This car wash find proves valuable quarters can turn up anywhere. Check your pocket change, coin jars, or bank rolls. Vending machines, old piggy banks, or inherited collections might hold a winner. With over 673 million 1983-P quarters minted, a rare error coin is tough to find but not impossible. If you spot one, get it authenticated by a professional to confirm its value, then consider selling at auction for the best price.
Why Collectors Are Excited
The 1983-P doubled die reverse quarter is a collector’s dream because of its rarity and the thrill of finding treasure in everyday change. Error coins from the early 1980s are especially prized since proof sets weren’t made for circulation then, making high-quality coins scarce. As collectors hunt for these rarities, their value keeps climbing. Even if you don’t find a $950,000 quarter, other 1983 errors could still bring hundreds or thousands.
| Feature | Details | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die Reverse | Doubled lettering on back, like “E PLURIBUS UNUM” | Up to $950,000 |
| High Grade | MS-65 or better condition | $500–$15,863 |
| Philadelphia Mint | “P” mint mark | $25–$950,000 |
Don’t toss your change yet! A rare 1983-P quarter like the car wash find could be worth a fortune. Grab a magnifying glass and start checking your quarters today—you might just find a life-changing coin
