The 1987 D Washington Quarter is worth anywhere from its face value of $25 cents in circulated condition to over $15 for high-grade uncirculated specimens. While most of these coins found in pocket change won’t make you rich, specific versions and mint errors can fetch a surprising premium from coin collectors.
Understanding the History and Mintage of the 1987 D Quarter
If you have just pulled a 1987 quarter from your coin jar, the first thing you should look for is the small “D” near the bottom right of George Washington’s bust. This signifies the coin was struck at the Denver Mint. In 1987, the Denver Mint produced 482,040,000 quarters, which is a massive number. Because so many were made, they remain extremely common in daily life throughout the United States.
However, just because a coin is common doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a second look. If you are unsure exactly what you are holding, you can use a free coin identifier app to quickly snap a photo and confirm the variety. Many people who use the CoinHix app discover that their coins are in better condition than they initially thought, leading to a higher resale value than the standard twenty-five cents.
The 1980s were a time when many people stopped hoarding coins for silver content, as quarters had been made of copper-nickel clad since 1965. This means that unlike older quarters, the 1987-D does not contain any precious metals. Its value is derived entirely from its condition, rarity in high grades, or the presence of interesting mechanical errors from the minting process.
Current Market Value and Pricing for 1987 D Quarters
The value of a 1987-D Washington Quarter is highly dependent on the “Mint State” (MS) grade. Most coins found in circulation are graded “About Uncirculated” or lower, meaning they have visible scratches and wear. These are worth exactly face value. However, if you find a coin that looks like it just came out of a fresh roll, it might be worth several dollars.
For those tracking the market, the 1987 Washington Quarter market price for MS65 specimens usually hovers around $5 to $8. If a coin reaches the elite tier of MS67, the price can jump significantly because so few of these clad coins survived the last three decades without getting dinged or scratched.
To give you a better idea of what to expect, refer to the price guide below. These figures represent average dealer prices and auction results for the Denver mint mark.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Good to AU) | $0.25 (Face Value) |
| Mint State 63 (Uncirculated) | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Mint State 65 (Gem Brilliant) | $6.00 – $12.00 |
| Mint State 67 (Exceptional) | $35.00 – $150.00+ |
Valuable Errors and Varieties to Look For
While the standard 1987-D is common, error hunters look for “Double Dies” or “Off-Center” strikes. These occur when the machinery at the mint malfunctions. A 1987-D quarter with a significant off-center strike—where part of the design is missing and the metal is blank—can sell for $20 to $100 depending on the percentage of the error.
Another frequent question involves the “Spit On” or “Drooling” Washington error, which is caused by a die crack near the mouth. While these are relatively minor and don’t always command a huge premium, they are fun additions to a personal collection. Using the CoinHix app can help you zoom in on these tiny details to see if your coin has a recognized error.
You should also check the accurate 1987 quarter value data to see if your coin might be a “Clad Layer” error. This is where the outer nickel layer is missing, revealing the bright copper core on one side. These errors are highly sought after and are much more valuable than a standard quarter.
How to Tell If Your 1987 D Quarter Is Worth Keeping
The most important factor is the “Luster.” If the coin still has a satiny, spinning light effect when you rotate it under a lamp, it is uncirculated. If the surface looks dull, gray, or has been cleaned with a cloth (which leaves tiny hairline scratches), its value to a collector drops significantly.
Professional grading by companies like PCGS or NGC is usually only worth the cost if you believe your coin is an MS67 or higher. For most of us, keeping these coins in a simple cardboard flip or a plastic coin holder is enough to preserve their history. If you are serious about building a collection, the CoinHix digital library is a great way to log your finds and monitor the value of your coins over time.
Remember that the Denver Mint quarters of the late 80s often suffered from “bag marks”—little nicks caused by coins hitting each other in large canvas bags at the mint. Finding one with a clean, mark-free face is quite a challenge, and that is exactly what collectors are willing to pay for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the 1987 D Washington Quarter contain any silver?
A: No, all quarters minted for circulation in 1987 are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. They have been silver-free since 1965.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1987 D Quarter?
A: While most sell for a few dollars, a 1987-D quarter graded MS67 by professional services has sold for over $500 at auction in the past, though prices vary depending on the specific buyer and current demand.
Q: Is a 1987 D Quarter with no mint mark rare?
A: If a 1987 quarter has no mint mark, it was minted in Philadelphia (P). It is just as common as the Denver (D) version and holds a similar value profile.
