If you’re a fan of National Parks, you’re in great company. From the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone to the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite, the United States is home to some of the most scenic places on Earth. For coin collectors, the National Parks quarters are an absolute treasure. Officially called the “America the Beautiful” quarters, this collection includes 56 coins that feature a National Park, historical landmark, or natural wonder from each of the 50 states, Washington, DC, and five U.S. territories.
Minted from 2010 to 2021, some of these quarters can be worth a significant amount, with values reaching into the thousands of dollars. The worth of each coin depends on several key factors, such as rarity, condition, and where it was minted. So, before you casually drop one of these quarters in the parking meter, take a moment to inspect it closely.
Most Valuable America the Beautiful Quarters
Though not particularly old, several of the National Parks quarters are worth a considerable sum. Here are some of the most valuable coins from the series, based on auction prices:
| National Parks Quarter | Value |
|---|---|
| 2020-W Salt River Bay National Historical Park | $6,600 |
| 2019-W Lowell National Historical Park | $5,040 |
| 2019-W San Antonio Missions National Park | $1,260 |
| 2010-D Yellowstone National Park | $1,140 |
| 2016-P Theodore Roosevelt National Park | $1,020 |
| 2014-P Shenandoah National Park | $1,020 |
2020-W Salt River Bay Quarter
The 2020-W Salt River Bay National Park quarter is one of the rarest and most sought-after coins from the “America the Beautiful” series. Featuring a red mangrove tree growing in water, this coin honors the Salt River Bay National Historical Park in the U.S. Virgin Islands. While more than 1 billion of these quarters were minted, only about 2 million were produced at the West Point Mint.
Many of these coins show signs of wear, making uncirculated versions highly valuable. In fact, one uncirculated coin sold for a remarkable $6,600 in 2024, demonstrating just how much collectors are willing to pay for this rare find.
2019-W Lowell National Historical Park Quarter
The 2019-W Lowell National Historical Park quarter is another highly coveted coin from the West Point Mint. Although most of the Lowell quarters were minted elsewhere, finding one from West Point in pristine condition is a rare gem for collectors.
This quarter, representing the state of Massachusetts, showcases a 19th-century woman operating a power loom, making for a distinctive and visually appealing design. As one of the highest-value coins in the “America the Beautiful” series, an uncirculated example sold for an impressive $5,040 in 2024, highlighting its worth in the collector’s market.
2019-W San Antonio Missions National Park Quarter
The 2019-W San Antonio Missions National Historical Park quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the “America the Beautiful” series. Like other West Point-minted quarters, those in uncirculated condition are especially sought after by collectors. The design on the reverse side of the coin is influenced by a Spanish Colonial real coin and depicts the San Antonio Mission bell tower, along with waves, wheat, and a lion.
What makes this quarter particularly exciting is that a small number of coins were mistakenly released six days ahead of the official launch. If you happen to find one of these early-release coins, it could be worth even more. In 2024, one example sold for $1,260, showcasing its significant value.
2010-D Yellowstone National Park Quarter
The 2010-D Yellowstone National Park quarter is the second release in the “America the Beautiful” series and one of the rarest. Representing the state of Wyoming, this quarter features a bison alongside the iconic Old Faithful geyser.
Quarters minted at the Denver Mint, in particular, are difficult to find in excellent condition, making them highly prized among collectors. If you happen to have one of these, it’s worth holding onto. In fact, an example of this quarter sold for $1,140 in 2017, underscoring its value in the coin-collecting world.
2016-P Theodore Roosevelt National Park Quarter
The 2016-P Theodore Roosevelt National Park quarter honors North Dakota and features a striking portrait of President Theodore Roosevelt on horseback. While over 231,000 of these quarters were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, they are difficult to find in uncirculated condition, making them highly valuable to collectors. One example of this quarter sold for $1,020 in 2018.
Need to Know
A clad coin is made from multiple types of metals, with an outer layer that gives it a shinier or more durable finish. While clad coins generally aren’t worth more than regular issue coins, their value can increase if they are rarer, as is the case with this quarter.
2014-P Shenandoah National Park Quarter
The 2014-P Shenandoah National Park quarter celebrates the scenic beauty of this Virginia park, located at one end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The coin features a hiker standing atop a mountain trail, capturing the essence of the park’s natural splendor. While
clad coins from the Philadelphia Mint are typically common, those in excellent condition can be quite valuable. In 2018, one such coin sold for $1,020, demonstrating its worth to collectors.
Tips for Finding Valuable National Park Quarters
Collecting the America the Beautiful quarters can be an exciting hobby, whether you’re focused on their value or simply enjoy gathering all 56 coins. However, some quarters are worth more than others, and they often share a few key characteristics. Keep these tips in mind to maximize the value of your collection:
- Look for earlier coins: The first few years of the series, from 2010 to 2012, had fewer coins minted for each design. These earlier coins tend to be rarer and could be more valuable.
- Keep an eye out for the West Point Mint: Not every year has coins minted at the West Point Mint, but those that do are usually harder to find. Look for a “W” mintmark next to the year to identify these rarer versions.
- Check the condition carefully: Coins in excellent condition—those with sharp details, shiny surfaces, and minimal wear—are the most valuable. Coins that are clad or haven’t been circulated will generally fetch a higher price.
- Watch for the finish: The 2010 quarters included some with a satin finish, which are rarer and more valuable compared to standard versions. Make sure to check if your coin has this special finish.
An Exciting Series for Your Coin Collection
While National Parks quarters may not always carry the same high value as other quarter series, they can still be quite valuable, especially when you come across rarer years and designs. Keep an eye out for anything unusual or special in your collection, as these coins can appreciate significantly in value.
Collecting this series is an exciting journey, offering both a visual and historical connection to the beauty of America’s national parks. Be sure to focus on quarters in excellent condition to maximize their value and preserve their uniqueness in your coin collection.
FAQs
What makes some National Parks quarters worth $1000 or more?
The value of National Parks quarters can increase due to factors like rarity, minting location, condition, and unique features like early releases or special finishes.
Which National Parks quarters are worth the most?
Some of the highest-value coins include the 2020-W Salt River Bay and 2019-W Lowell National Historical Park quarters, with some selling for over $6,000 at auctions.
How can I tell if my National Parks quarter is valuable?
Look for coins minted at the West Point Mint, those in uncirculated condition, and rarer designs from early years like 2010-2012.
Where can I sell my valuable National Parks quarters?
Valuable quarters can be sold at coin shops, through online auction sites like eBay, or at coin collector events.