The 2010 S Mount Hood Quarter is worth anywhere from $2 in circulated proof condition to over $50 for high-grade silver versions. Finding one of these in your change or an old collection is an exciting discovery because unlike regular quarters, the “S” mint mark indicates it was produced specifically for collectors at the San Francisco Mint.
Understanding the 2010 S Mount Hood Quarter Varieties
When you look at your 2010 Mount Hood quarter, the first thing you should check is the mint mark located on the right side of George Washington’s portrait. If you see a small “S,” you have found a coin that was not intended for general circulation. Unlike the common P or D versions found in grocery store change, the San Francisco Mint produced these primarily for proof sets and collectors.
However, there are actually two different types of “S” quarters from this year: the standard copper-nickel clad version and the 90% silver version. To identify your coin quickly, you can use the top coin identifier app to scan the surface and determine the exact variety. The clad version will have a visible copper stripe on the edge, while the silver version will have a solid, bright white silver edge.
The silver version is naturally more valuable because of its precious metal content, but even the clad proof versions carry a premium. If you are unsure about the specifics of your find, the CoinHix app can help you distinguish between a brilliant proof and a deep cameo finish, which significantly impacts the resale price.
Current Market Value and Price Guide
The value of a 2010 S Mount Hood quarter depends heavily on its “grade” or physical condition. Because these coins were sold in protective plastic lenses by the U.S. Mint, they are usually found in excellent shape. However, if a coin was removed from its set and spent, the value drops closer to its face value or a small premium.
For those looking for detailed historical data, you can check the 2010 America the Beautiful quarter series auction records to see how the Mount Hood design compares to other releases from the same year. Generally, the silver “S” quarters track with the spot price of silver plus a “numismatic” (collector) premium.
| Condition / Variety | Clad Proof (S) Value | 90% Silver Proof (S) Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR 65 (Typical Proof) | $2.50 – $4.00 | $12.00 – $15.00 |
| PR 69 (Near Perfect) | $8.00 – $12.00 | $25.00 – $35.00 |
| PR 70 (Flawless) | $25.00 – $45.00 | $55.00 – $85.00 |
What Makes the Mount Hood Design Special
The 2010 Mount Hood quarter was the fifth release in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program. The reverse design features a majestic view of Mount Hood with Lost Lake in the foreground. This specific design is highly sought after by residents of Oregon and nature lovers alike.
Collectors often look for “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations. This refers to the contrast between the frosted image of the mountain and the mirror-like shiny background of the coin. If your coin looks like a mirror, it is likely a proof. To get a better sense of how this specific date fits into the wider market, you can review the 2010 quarter value and rarity charts for all mint marks.
Many people who find these coins are often surprised to learn that the San Francisco Mint didn’t just make one type. Testing your coin’s weight is a good way to verify if it is silver. Silver quarters weigh 6.25 grams, while the copper-nickel versions weigh 5.67 grams. If you don’t have a scale, the CoinHix app provides a digital database to help you document and value your collection.
Is the 2010 S Quarter Rare Enough to Sell
While the 2010 S Mount Hood quarter is not as rare as a gold coin from the 1800s, it is still significantly lower in mintage than the millions of quarters struck in Philadelphia or Denver. Approximately 585,000 silver proof sets and about 1.1 million clad proof sets were produced. Compared to the 68 million Mount Hood quarters struck in Denver, the “S” mint mark is definitely the “rare” version of the group.
If you are thinking about selling, it is best to keep the coin in its original packaging or a protective flip. Any scratches or fingerprints will drastically reduce the price. Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC can make a coin worth much more, but it is only worth the cost if the coin is in perfect condition.
Using a tool like CoinHix allows you to stay updated on the latest auction prices, ensuring you don’t sell your silver proof for the price of a regular clad coin. Always double-check the luster and edge of the coin before finalizing a sale.
FAQ about 2010 S Mount Hood Quarters
Q: How can I tell if my 2010 S quarter is silver?
A: Checked the edge of the coin. If it is solid silver/white with no copper stripe, it is 90% silver. It will also weigh 6.25 grams compared to 5.67 grams for a standard quarter.
Q: Can I find a 2010 S Mount Hood quarter in my pocket change?
A: It is rare but possible. These are “Proof” coins intended for collectors, but sometimes people break open proof sets and spend them. These “impaired proofs” are usually worth $1 to $2.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 2010 S Mount Hood Quarter?
A: Perfect PR70 Deep Cameo specimens can sell for $75 to $100 depending on the current demand and the grading service that certified the coin.
Q: Is Mount Hood the only Oregon quarter?
A: No, Oregon was also featured in the 2005 50 State Quarters program, but the 2010 Mount Hood design is part of the America the Beautiful series focusing on national sites.
