2013-S Great Basin Quarter Value Guide: Is Your Coin Rare?
The 2013-S Great Basin Quarter is worth anywhere from $0.25 in circulated condition to over $500 in high-grade silver proof condition. Whether you found one in your change or inherited a collection, understanding the difference between the “S” mint marks is the key to unlocking its true market value.
| Version Type | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2013-S Business Strike (Clad) | Uncirculated MS65 | $3.00 – $8.00 |
| 2013-S Clad Proof | Gem Proof PR69 | $5.00 – $12.00 |
| 2013-S Silver Proof | Deep Cameo PR70 | $35.00 – $150.00+ |
History of the 2013-S Great Basin National Park Quarter
The 2013 Great Basin National Park quarter is the 18th release in the United States Mint’s ambitious “America the Beautiful” Quarters Program. This series, which began in 2010 and concluded in 2021, honors a national site from each U.S. state, district, and territory. You can use a free coin identifier app to quickly confirm if your specimen features the iconic “Bristlecone Pine” design.
The reverse of this coin depicts a majestic Bristlecone Pine, a tree species found in Nevada that is known for being among the oldest living organisms on Earth. These trees can survive for thousands of years in the harsh environments of the Great Basin. Because the “S” mint mark indicates production at the San Francisco Mint, collectors pay close attention to this specific issue. Unlike the P and D quarters meant for pocket change, the 2013-S issues were largely intended for collectors.
To get an accurate estimate of what your collection might be worth, professional tools like CoinKnow are invaluable. Many users find that the 2013-S quarters they discover are part of “uncirculated sets” or “proof sets” that were broken open. If you find one in your pocket, someone likely spent a collector’s coin at face value! While common business strikes are worth 25 cents, those with the “S” mark carry a premium.
Distinguishing the Three Types of 2013-S Quarters
One of the most confusing aspects for everyday Americans is that the San Francisco Mint produced three distinct types of this quarter in 2013. First, there is the “Business Strike” (NIFC – Not Intended for Circulation) clad version. These were sold in bags and rolls directly to collectors and were never officially released into general circulation. This makes them significantly rarer than the billions of Philadelphia and Denver quarters.
Second, there is the Clad Proof. Proof coins are struck using special polished dies and planchets, resulting in a mirror-like background and frosted details. Third, there is the Silver Proof version, which contains 90% silver. Identifying which one you have is critical to determining the 2013 quarter value because the silver content alone makes the third type worth much more than its face value.
| Composition | Edge View | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Clad (Business or Proof) | Copper/Red Stripe Visible | 5.67 grams |
| 90% Silver Proof | Solid White/Silver | 6.25 grams |
Determining the Value of 2013-S Silver Proof Quarters
Silver is always in demand, and the 2013-S Silver Great Basin quarter is highly coveted. During 2013, the Mint produced these specifically for the annual Silver Proof Sets. If your coin looks exceptionally shiny and has a “white” edge rather than a copper-colored one, you likely have the silver version. Checking the weight is also a foolproof method; silver quarters weigh more than their copper-nickel counterparts.
High-grade examples, specifically those graded by PCGS or NGC as PR70 Deep Cameo, can often sell for over $100. For collectors looking for the most accurate premium quarter prices, checking recent auction results is the best strategy. The market for beautiful modern silver proofs remains strong because they bridge the gap between bullion investing and numismatic collecting.
If you are unsure about the grading of your silver proof, using CoinKnow can help you compare your coin’s luster and strike quality against high-resolution reference images. Remember, even a single fingerprint on a silver proof coin can lower its grade and value significantly. Always handle these coins by the edges to preserve their mirror-like finish and maximize your resale potential.
The Rarity of 2013-S Business Strike Quarters
Many people don’t realize that the San Francisco Mint produced “Business Strike” (non-proof) quarters for collectors starting in 2012. These 2013-S Great Basin clad quarters were sold in rolls and 100-coin bags. Because they were not released through banks, finding one in your change is a genuine “wild” find. They have a standard satin finish, similar to Philly or Denver coins, but bear the “S” mint mark.
These are technically “NIFC” (Not Intended for Circulation) coins. While they aren’t worth thousands, they easily sell for $2 to $10 depending on their condition. If you find one that looks brand new with no scratches, it could be worth sending in for professional grading. In extremely high grades like MS67 or MS68, these can become quite valuable because so few were preserved in perfect condition.
| Grade | Clad S-Mint Price | Mintage (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| MS63 (Typical) | $1.50 – $2.50 | 1,400,000 |
| MS66 (Choice) | $10.00 – $15.00 | Low Population |
| MS68 (Rare) | $100.00+ | Top Pop |
What to Look for: Professional Grading and Errors
When evaluating your 2013-S Great Basin Quarter, condition is everything. A “circulated” coin—one with scratches and wear from being in a cash register—is generally only worth its face value or a small premium for the S-mint mark. However, “uncirculated” specimens are those that look like they just came from the Mint. These are the coins that collectors pay premiums for.
Keep an eye out for potential mint errors as well. While the 2013 series is known for high production quality, errors like doubled dies, off-center strikes, or “die chips” (extra bumps of metal) can occur. Using CoinKnow to zoom in on the Bristlecone Pine needles or the lettering on the reverse can help you spot these anomalies. An error coin can often triple or quadruple the value of a standard 2013-S quarter.
Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC are usually only worth the cost if you believe your coin is in the top 1% of quality or if it is a Silver Proof in perfect condition. For most hobbyists, a simple protective flip or a coin folder is enough to keep the value stable. Knowing the nuances of the 2013-S Great Basin Quarter allows you to sort your “pocket change” with the eye of a professional numismatist.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 2013-S Great Basin Quarter is silver?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver/white color, it is likely the 90% silver version. If you see a copper-colored stripe running through the middle of the edge, it is a copper-nickel clad coin. Silver quarters also weigh 6.25 grams, while clad ones weigh 5.67 grams.
Q: Why did the San Francisco Mint make quarters for circulation?
A: They actually didn’t make them for general circulation. The 2013-S business strike quarters were sold specifically to collectors in rolls and bags via the U.S. Mint website. They were meant for people who wanted to complete their “S-Mint” collections.
Q: Is a 2013-P or 2013-D Great Basin Quarter worth anything?
A: Most 2013-P (Philadelphia) and 2013-D (Denver) quarters found in circulation are only worth their face value of 25 cents. However, if they are in absolute perfect, “Gem” uncirculated condition, they might be worth $1 to $5 to a collector.
Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2013 quarter?
A: The mint mark (S, P, or D) is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail, just below the “In God We Trust” motto.
