The 2009-P Guam Quarter is worth anywhere from its 25-cent face value in circulated condition to over $30 for specimens in high-grade mint state. Most people find these in their pocket change, but identifying specific errors or high-quality finishes can reveal a coin that is worth significantly more to collectors.

Understanding the History of the 2009 Guam Quarter

The 2009-P Guam Quarter was released as the third coin in the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program. This program followed the massive success of the 50 State Quarters series, extending the celebration to territories like Guam, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico. The “P” mint mark indicates that the coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. At the time, the United States was in the midst of the Great Recession, which led to significantly lower mintage numbers compared to previous years.

Lower mintage often translates to higher secondary market interest. While the Philadelphia Mint produced over 45 million Guam quarters, this is a relatively small number compared to the hundreds of millions produced during the peak of the 50 State Quarters era. To get an instant valuation of your collection, you can use the CoinKnow app to scan your coins and check current market trends. Determining the exact top coin identifier app for your needs is essential when sorting through modern change.

The reverse design of the coin is culturally significant. It features an outline of the island of Guam, a traditional proa (a fast sailing vessel), and a latte stone—a unique architectural element used by the ancient Chamorro people. This combination of history and art makes the Guam quarter a favorite for those building territorial sets.

Factors That Determine the 2009 P Guam Quarter Value

When assessing the value of your 2009-P Guam Quarter, condition is the most critical factor. Most quarters you find while grocery shopping are “circulated,” meaning they have scratches, dents, and lost luster from being handled. These are generally worth exactly 25 cents. However, if you find a coin that looks like it just came from a fresh roll—with a sharp strike and no visible scratches—it may be worth a premium.

Professional grading services use a 70-point scale. A 2009-P Guam Quarter graded MS65 (Mint State 65) is considered high quality and might sell for $5 to $10. If you manage to find one in MS67 or higher, the price can jump significantly because these are rare for the 2009 issue due to poor handling at the mint. Using CoinKnow can help you compare your coin’s luster and detail against high-grade examples.

Another factor is the presence of errors. Even though the Philadelphia Mint has strict quality controls, mistakes happen. Look for “doubled die” errors, where the design appears shifted or blurry, or “off-center” strikes. Collectors are often willing to pay $20, $50, or even $100 for a confirmed error coin that stands out from the millions of standard quarters produced that year.

Price Guide for 2009-P Guam Quarters

The following table provides an estimated value for the 2009-P Guam Quarter based on its condition. Please note that market prices fluctuate based on demand and the platform where you sell your coins. Understanding the 2009 quarter value and mintages can help you decide whether to spend your change or save it for a dealer.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Value
Circulated (F-VF)	$0.25
About Uncirculated (AU)	$0.50 – $1.00
Uncirculated (MS63)	$2.00 – $4.00
Choice Uncirculated (MS65)	$8.00 – $15.00
Gem Uncirculated (MS67+)	$35.00+

How to Identify a Rare Guam Quarter Error

Error hunting is one of the most exciting parts of the hobby for everyday Americans. For the 2009-P Guam Quarter, you should pay close attention to the inscriptions “Guam” and “Tano I Man Chamorro.” If you see doubling in the letters—looking like a shadow or a second set of letters—you might have a Doubled Die Reverse (DDR). These are highly sought after and can make a common quarter worth a significant sum.

Another rare but possible error is a “die crack.” As the minting dies wear down, they develop small cracks that appear as raised lines of metal on the coin’s surface. While small cracks are common, large or uniquely placed cracks (sometimes called “spitting” errors) can add value. Checking your coins with the CoinKnow app’s high-resolution identification feature can help you spot these tiny details that are invisible to the naked eye.

Beyond errors, keep an eye out for “Trial Strikes” or “Broadstrikes.” A broadstrike occurs when the coin is struck without being held firmly by the collar, resulting in a coin that is flatter and wider than normal. While rare for the 2009 series, finding one in your change is like winning a small lottery, as they are instantly recognizable and valuable to specialists.

Collecting the Complete 2009 Quarter Set

The Guam quarter is just one part of the 2009 Territorial Quarters set. Many collectors choose to collect all six designs from that year: District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Because the 2009 mintages were lower across the board, finding high-quality versions of all these coins in the wild is becoming increasingly difficult.

If you are serious about collecting, you might want to look for Proof versions from the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”). These weren’t intended for circulation and feature a mirror-like finish. While the “P” mint mark quarter is what you’ll usually find in your pocket, knowing the difference between the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mintages ensures you don’t accidentally spend a rare variant.

Storing your coins properly is also essential. Even a tiny fingerprint can cause oxidation over time, lowering the grade of a mint-state coin. If you find a 2009-P Guam quarter that looks exceptionally shiny and clean, place it in a cardboard flip or a plastic coin capsule. This preserves the surface luster and ensures that your coin remains worth more than its face value for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the 2009-P Guam Quarter made of silver?

A: No, the 2009-P Guam quarters intended for circulation are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. There are silver proof versions minted in San Francisco, but these will have an “S” mint mark and a much shinier, mirror-like appearance.

Q: How can I tell if my Guam quarter is worth more than 25 cents?

A: Check the condition first. If the coin looks brand new and hasn’t been scratched, it is likely worth $1 to $5. If you see doubling in the letters or other physical oddities, it could be an error coin worth much more.

Q: Why are 2009 quarters harder to find than other years?

A: Due to the economic downturn in 2009, the U.S. Mint reduced production numbers significantly. Fewer coins were released into circulation compared to the years before and after, making the entire 2009 series more desirable for collectors.

Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2009 Guam Quarter?

A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (heads side) of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail. A “P” stands for Philadelphia, a “D” for Denver, and an “S” for San Francisco.