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The 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter is worth anywhere from its face value of $0.25 in circulated condition to over $450 in high-grade mint state. While most of these coins found in pocket change are common, certain strike qualities and errors can make them a valuable find for any American collector.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Good to About Uncirculated) | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Uncirculated (MS63 – MS65) | $1.00 – $12.00 |
| Gem Quality (MS67+) | $40.00 – $450.00+ |
Understanding the History of the 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter
The 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter was released as the fifth and final design of the first year of the “America the Beautiful” (ATB) Quarters program. This ambitious series sought to honor a national site in every U.S. state and territory. The Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon was chosen for its iconic volcanic peak and lush scenery. Struck at the Denver Mint, these coins carry the “D” mint mark on the obverse (the “heads” side).
When you find one of these in your tip jar, you might wonder if you’ve struck gold. While the mintage was relatively low compared to quarters from the 1990s, millions were still produced. If you are unsure about the specifics of your coin, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a common pocket piece and a high-grade specimen.
The design features a majestic view of Mount Hood with Lost Lake in the foreground. It captures the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. For many, this coin served as a breath of fresh air during a time when the U.S. Mint was transitioning from the 50 State Quarters program to this more modern landscape-focused series. Collectors often use the CoinKnow app to track their progress in completing the full ATB set.
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2010-D Mount Hood Quarter Value by Grade
Value is almost entirely dependent on the condition of the coin. Most 2010-D Mount Hood Quarters that have been used to buy groceries or coffee are “circulated.” This means they have scratches, dings, and lost luster. In these conditions, the coin is generally only worth its face value of 25 cents. However, if you find one that looks like it just came out of a fresh mint roll, the price starts to climb.
Numismatists use a 70-point scale to grade coins. An MS63 (Mint State 63) coin has some marks but still looks new. An MS67 is nearly perfect to the naked eye. In fact, the current market value for MS67 state quarters often fluctuates based on supply and demand at major auctions.
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| Grade (Mint State) | Typical Retail Value |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $1.50 |
| MS65 | $10.00 |
| MS66 | $25.00 |
| MS67 | $135.00 |
| MS68 | $450.00+ |
Key Identifying Features of the Mount Hood Design
The reverse of the coin, designed and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill, shows Mount Hood standing tall behind the serene Lost Lake. The inscriptions include “MOUNT HOOD,” “OREGON,” “2010,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Because the design is quite intricate, it is prone to showing wear quickly. The points of the mountain peak and the ripples in the lake are usually the first areas to flatten out.
On the obverse, you will see the familiar portrait of George Washington. Near the bottom right of the portrait, look for the “D” mint mark. This indicates the Denver Mint. While San Francisco (S) and Philadelphia (P) mints also produced 2010 quarters, the Denver mintage of 34,400,000 is quite low for a modern quarter. This relative scarcity is a major reason why checking the latest 2010 quarter auction prices is essential for collectors.
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To keep your coins organized and identifying them correctly, many hobbyists recommend using CoinKnow. It allows you to snap a photo and instantly see if your Mount Hood quarter has any of the notable characteristics that drive price increases among professional dealers.
Rarity and Mintage Figures for the 2010 Series
The year 2010 was a unique time for the U.S. Mint. Following the financial crisis of 2008, the demand for new coinage from banks dropped significantly. As a result, the mintage numbers for all 2010 quarters—including Hot Springs, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Mount Hood—are substantially lower than the billions of quarters minted in the late 1990s.
When mintage is low, the potential for a coin to appreciate in value increases. The Denver Mint’s production of 34.4 million might sound like a lot, but in the world of modern American coinage, it is considered a “low-mintage” year. This makes finding a high-grade 2010-D Mount Hood quarter much harder than finding a 1999 Connecticut quarter.
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| Mint Location | Mintage Quantity |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia (P) | 34,400,000 |
| Denver (D) | 34,400,000 |
| San Francisco (S) – Proofs only | 1,103,186 |
Potential Errors to Look For in Your 2010-D Quarter
Error coins are where the real excitement begins for everyday Americans. While the 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter doesn’t have a “major” famous error like the 1955 doubled die penny, there are subtle variations that can increase its worth. Look for “Die Cracks” or “Cuds” on the edges of the mountains or around the lake area.
Another thing to watch for is a “Double Die” on the reverse. This usually appears as a slight doubling of the letters in “OREGON” or “MOUNT HOOD.” Even a minor doubling can turn a $0.25 coin into a $20 or $50 item for the right buyer. Using an app like CoinKnow can help you zoom in on high-resolution images to compare your coin to known error catalogs.
Striking errors, such as “Off-Center Strikes,” are extremely rare for this series but can be worth hundreds of dollars. If your coin looks “chopped” or missing a part of the design, do not spend it! It could be a mint error that collectors will pay a premium to own.
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How to Store and Protect Your 2010 Quarters
If you find a 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter that looks exceptionally shiny and scratch-free, you should handle it by the edges only. The natural oils in your skin can actually damage the surface of the coin over time, leading to dulling or discoloration. To keep the value high, place it in a cardboard 2×2 flip or a plastic capsule.
Proper storage is key for long-term appreciation. Avoid storing your coins in high-humidity areas like basements or attics. Over time, moisture can lead to corrosion or “milk spots,” which significantly lower the grade and price of the coin. If you have a large collection, keeping a digital inventory on a mobile device is the most efficient way to stay organized.
FAQ: Common Questions About the 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter
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Q: Is the 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter made of silver?
A: No, standard 2010-D quarters found in circulation are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. Only the special Proof versions minted in San Francisco were available in 90% silver for collectors.
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Q: Why is my 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter worth more than 25 cents?
A: It is likely worth more if it is in “Uncirculated” condition or has a mint error. Because 2010 had lower mintage numbers than other years, there is more demand for high-quality versions from that year.
Q: How can I tell if my coin is from Denver or Philadelphia?
A: Check the front of the coin near George Washington’s ponytail. A small “D” indicates Denver, while a “P” indicates Philadelphia. If there is an “S,” it is a proof coin from San Francisco.
Q: Should I get my 2010-D Mount Hood Quarter professionally graded?
A: Only if the coin appears to be in perfect condition (MS67 or higher). Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC costs money, so the coin’s value should justify the fee. For most circulated coins, it is better to keep them in a simple protective holder.