17 Washington Collectibles Increasing In Value And Are Harder To Find
Collectors across the country are discovering that Washington-themed items are becoming more valuable every year. Whether they celebrate George Washington, the first president, or Washington State’s unique history, these treasures are getting harder to track down.
From rare coins to vintage sports memorabilia, the market for Washington collectibles is heating up, making now the perfect time to explore what might be hiding in attics and collections.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Minted during the Great Depression, this quarter from Denver holds serious appeal for coin enthusiasts. Only 436,800 were produced, making it one of the scarcest Washington quarters ever struck.
High-grade examples can fetch thousands of dollars at auction. Collectors value the sharp details and original luster that survived nearly a century.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
San Francisco’s mint produced just 408,000 of these quarters in the inaugural year of the Washington design. Rarity drives demand, and collectors compete fiercely for well-preserved specimens.
Coins with minimal wear command premium prices in today’s market. The historical significance combined with limited mintage creates lasting value.
3. Early George Washington Inaugural Buttons
Supporters wore these buttons during Washington’s inauguration celebrations in 1789, creating a tangible link to America’s founding. Authentic examples are incredibly rare and often passed down through generations.
Museums and serious collectors seek buttons with clear imagery and original backings. Provenance matters greatly when determining authenticity and value.
4. 1860s–1900s George Washington Postage Stamps
Postal history enthusiasts treasure stamps featuring Washington’s likeness from this period. Condition is everything – unused stamps with original gum are especially prized.
Color variations, printing errors, and cancellation marks add layers of interest. Collectors study these tiny pieces of paper like historical documents.
5. Washington Presidential Bronze And Silver Medals
The U.S. Mint produced commemorative medals honoring Washington throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Bronze versions are more common, while silver examples attract serious bidders.
Details like edge lettering and original cases boost desirability. These medals served as gifts, awards, and patriotic keepsakes. Modern collectors appreciate both their artistic merit and historical significance.
6. 1982 George Washington 50-Cent Commemorative Coin
Issued to mark Washington’s 250th birthday, this half dollar was struck in limited quantities. Uncirculated coins in original mint packaging hold the most appeal.
Collectors appreciate the detailed portrait and patriotic symbolism. As commemorative issues go, this one has shown steady appreciation. Finding pristine examples becomes more challenging each year.
7. Washington Bicentennial Memorabilia
America celebrated Washington’s 200th birthday in 1932 with an outpouring of commemorative items. Pins, posters, plates, and textiles flooded the market during this patriotic celebration.
Complete sets or unusual pieces stand out to collectors today. Condition matters, as many items were used and discarded after the festivities. Nostalgia for this era drives current market interest.
8. 1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarters
Millions were minted for America’s 200th birthday, but certain varieties hold special value. Silver-clad versions from San Francisco and proof sets attract collector attention.
The drummer boy reverse design makes these quarters instantly recognizable. While common in circulation, high-grade examples command respectable prices. Nostalgia for the Bicentennial keeps demand steady.
9. Early Washington Portrait Prints And Lithographs
Artists created countless portraits of Washington during and after his lifetime. Early lithographs and engravings by notable printmakers are especially sought after.
Signatures, dates, and printing techniques help authenticate pieces. Collectors value images that capture Washington’s dignity and leadership. Framing and preservation affect both display appeal and market value.
10. George Washington Signed Documents Or Letters
Authentic signatures from Washington are among the most valuable American autographs. Letters, land grants, and military orders occasionally surface at auction.
Authentication is critical, as forgeries exist. Content, date, and condition all influence pricing. Owning a piece of paper touched by the first president connects collectors directly to history.
11. Washington State Centennial Collectibles
Washington became a state in 1889, and the 1989 centennial sparked production of commemorative items. Pins, medals, posters, and plates marked this milestone.
Local collectors particularly value these regional treasures. Limited production runs mean fewer items survive today. Pride in state history fuels ongoing interest in centennial memorabilia.
12. Seattle World’s Fair Memorabilia
The 1962 Century 21 Exposition put Seattle on the world map and left behind a treasure trove of collectibles. Space Needle models, posters, and admission tickets capture mid-century optimism.
Original fair merchandise in good condition is increasingly hard to locate. Nostalgia for this iconic event drives collector enthusiasm. Values rise as the fair’s 60th anniversary passes.
13. Vintage Washington Huskies And Seahawks Sports Memorabilia
Early jerseys, programs, and autographed items from Washington’s beloved teams are climbing in value. Seahawks memorabilia from their inaugural 1976 season holds particular appeal.
Championship years and legendary players boost desirability. Condition and authenticity documentation are essential for serious collectors. Regional pride and team loyalty keep demand strong.
14. Boeing Early Aviation Collectibles
Boeing’s Seattle roots run deep, and early aviation items connected to the company fascinate collectors. Employee badges, model planes, and promotional materials from the company’s formative decades are prized.
Items documenting Boeing’s role in aviation history carry both regional and international appeal. Rarity increases as fewer pieces remain in private hands. Aviation enthusiasts seek these tangible links to flight history.
15. Mount Vernon Souvenirs From The 1800s
Visitors to Washington’s estate brought home plates, spoons, and trinkets as mementos of their pilgrimage. Items from the Victorian era carry special appeal due to their age and craftsmanship.
Original packaging or provenance linking pieces to Mount Vernon adds value. These souvenirs reflect 19th-century tourism and American heritage. Demand grows as fewer examples remain in circulation.
16. Washington State National Park Posters
Mid-century travel posters promoting Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks blend art and outdoor heritage. Original prints in good condition are becoming scarce.
WPA-style designs from the 1930s-1940s are especially coveted. Collectors appreciate both the artistic quality and nostalgic appeal. Framed examples make stunning wall art while appreciating in value.
17. Washington Wine And Apple Crate Labels
Before cardboard boxes dominated shipping, wooden crates wore vibrant paper labels advertising Washington’s agricultural bounty. These lithographed labels feature stunning artwork and regional pride.
Collectors frame them as folk art, celebrating Washington’s farming heritage. Unused labels in pristine condition command premium prices. Scarcity grows as fewer examples survive intact.
