A Shiny Surprise in the Change Tray
A regular trip to a car wash in New Jersey turned into a life-changing moment for one lucky person. A 1983-P Washington quarter, found in a coin return slot, was recently identified as a rare “doubled die reverse” variety, valued at an astonishing $950,000. The coin, which looks like an ordinary quarter at first glance, caught the eye of a sharp customer who noticed something unusual. This incredible discovery has coin collectors buzzing and everyday folks checking their change for hidden treasures.
What Makes This Quarter Special
The 1983-P Washington quarter is part of the long-running series featuring George Washington on the front. Most quarters from this year are worth just 25 cents, but this one has a rare minting error called a “doubled die reverse.” This means the back of the coin, which shows an eagle, has doubled images of the letters and design due to a mistake during the minting process. The doubling is clear on words like “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.” Only a few of these error coins are known to exist, making them highly sought after by collectors.
How the Coin Was Found
The finder, who wishes to remain anonymous, spotted the quarter while collecting change from a self-service car wash machine. The coin’s slightly blurry design stood out, so they tucked it away instead of spending it. Later, they showed it to a friend who suggested getting it checked by a coin expert. A local coin shop confirmed it was a 1983-P doubled die reverse quarter in excellent condition. The coin was sent to a professional grading service, which rated it MS-65, meaning it’s in near-mint condition, boosting its value significantly.
| Coin Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1983 |
| Mint | Philadelphia (P) |
| Variety | Doubled Die Reverse |
| Estimated Value | $950,000 |
| Condition | Mint State (MS-65) |
Why It’s Worth a Fortune
The huge value of this quarter comes from its rarity and the clear doubling error. The doubled die reverse is one of the most dramatic errors in the Washington quarter series, making it a prized find. Similar coins have sold at auction for hundreds of thousands, with some reaching close to $1 million in top condition. The 1983-P quarter’s value is also high because coins from that year were heavily circulated, and few were saved in mint condition. This particular coin’s sharp details and lack of wear make it a standout.
Sparking a Coin-Hunting Craze
News of this find has sent coin collectors and hobbyists into a frenzy. People are now scouring their change, old piggy banks, and even car wash coin slots, hoping to strike it rich. The story has also brought attention to other famous quarter errors, like the 1983 “Spitting Eagle,” where a die clash makes it look like the eagle is spitting. Experts say anyone with coins from the 1980s should check them closely, as small errors can mean big money. Local coin shops are seeing more visitors eager to appraise their collections.
What’s Next for the Lucky Finder
The person who found the quarter is still deciding whether to sell it at auction or hold onto it. They’ve received offers from collectors and dealers, but they’re taking their time to explore all options. For now, the coin is safely stored, a small piece of history that turned a routine car wash into a million-dollar moment. This story shows that treasures can pop up anywhere, reminding us to keep our eyes open for the unexpected.
