2022 S Dr Sally Ride Women Quarter Value and Rarity Guide
The 2022-S Dr. Sally Ride Women Quarter is worth anywhere from $5 in uncirculated condition to over $1,500 for high-grade specimens. This beautiful coin celebrates the first American woman to fly in space, making it a favorite for both history buffs and modern coin collectors looking for value.
Identifying the S Mint Mark and Dr Sally Ride Design
When you find one of these coins in your change, the first thing you should check is the mint mark. Most quarters you see daily come from Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D). However, the “S” mint mark indicates the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint. These are not typically released into general circulation for spending, which is why they carry a premium right away.
To verify your find quickly, you can use a free coin identifier app to check the mint mark location and the coin’s condition. The reverse design features Dr. Sally Ride next to a space shuttle window, looking out at the Earth with an expression of wonder. This image is part of the American Women Quarters Program, which debuted in 2022.
If you are unsure about the specific variety you have, the CoinKnow app can help you distinguish between the different finishes. Collectors often look for the Proof versions, which have a mirror-like background and “frosted” details, making them stand out significantly from standard pocket change.
The Value of the 2022-S Sally Ride Quarter
The 2022-S Sally Ride quarter value depends heavily on whether it is a “Business Strike” or a “Proof.” In 2022, the US Mint sold circulating-finish S-mint coins in special bags and rolls. Because these weren’t meant for the grocery store, finding one in your pocket is like finding a hidden treasure.
A standard S-mint business strike in MS65 (Mint State) condition usually sells for about $5 to $10. However, if the coin is in perfect condition (MS67 or higher), the price jumps significantly. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC have certified a few top-tier examples that have sold at auction for hundreds of dollars.
For most casual hunters, the real excitement comes from the Proof sets. These were minted specifically for collectors. A “Deep Cameo” proof is the highest standard, exhibiting a sharp contrast between the design and the background. These are widely available but still hold their value well among enthusiasts of the women’s quarter series.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Uncirculated (MS65) Business Strike | $5.00 – $12.00 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS67) | $45.00 – $90.00 |
| Perfect Uncirculated (MS69+) | $150.00 – $400.00 |
| Proof-69 Deep Cameo | $7.00 – $15.00 |
| Proof-70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $40.00 – $120.00 |
| Silver Proof-70 Deep Cameo | $60.00 – $150.00+ |
Silver vs Clad 2022 S Quarters
One important distinction for any American finding these coins is the metal content. The San Francisco Mint produced two versions of the Dr. Sally Ride proof quarter: one made of the standard copper-nickel “clad” layers and one made of 99.9% fine silver. The silver version is much rarer and more valuable simply because of its precious metal content.
You can tell the difference by looking at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver-colored edge without a copper stripe, you likely have the silver version. Alternatively, a quick weight check on a digital scale will reveal the truth—silver quarters are heavier than clad ones. Using the CoinKnow app’s database is a great way to confirm the weight and specs of your specific coin.
Silver proofs often sell for a significant premium, especially if they are part of a complete 2022 Silver Proof Set. Even if the coin is loose, the value of the silver alone ensures it is worth much more than its face value of twenty-five cents.
Valuable Errors on the Dr Sally Ride Quarter
Error hunters are always on the lookout for mistakes made during the minting process. While the “S” mint quarters were produced with high quality control, errors can still happen. Some collectors have reported “die chips” or “cracks” on the reverse of the coin, particularly near the space shuttle or Dr. Ride’s hair.
Small errors might only add a few dollars to the value, but major errors like “off-center strikes” or “wrong planchet” errors can make a coin worth thousands. Because these coins are so new, many errors are still being discovered today. If you find something that looks unusual or “wrong,” it is worth keeping the coin in a protective sleeve until you can get it appraised.
The CoinKnow app is an excellent tool for comparing your coin against known error photos. Because the American Women Quarters program is a multi-year project, the interest in these early 2022 releases remains high, and prices stay stable as more people try to complete their collections.
Q: How can I tell if my 2022-S Sally Ride quarter is silver?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If you see a brown copper stripe, it is a standard clad coin. If the edge is solid silver-colored, it is likely the 99.9% silver proof version.
Q: Is the Sally Ride quarter rare?
A: The “P” and “D” versions are common, but the “S” mint mark quarters are much rarer because they were not released for general circulation and had lower mintages.
Q: Should I get my 2022-S quarter graded?
A: You should only consider professional grading if the coin is in perfect, flawless condition (MS67 or higher) or if it is a rare silver proof, as the cost of grading can be higher than the coin’s value.
