The 2009-S Guam Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 to $2 in circulated condition, but proof versions struck at the San Francisco Mint can fetch $5 to $15 or more depending on grade and finish. If you found one of these in a coin jar or old collection, you might be sitting on something more interesting than a simple quarter.
What Is the 2009-S Guam Quarter?
The 2009-S Guam Quarter is part of the U.S. Territories Quarter Program, a short-lived series that honored six American territories in 2009. Guam was one of those territories, and its quarter features a traditional latte stone, a flying proa (a traditional sailing canoe), and the word “Guahan,” which is the indigenous Chamorro name for Guam.
The “S” in the coin’s name tells you it was minted at the San Francisco Mint. That’s important because San Francisco didn’t produce quarters for general circulation — it only made proof and special mint set versions. So unlike your everyday pocket change, the 2009-S Guam Quarter was made specifically for collectors.
If you’re not sure whether the coin you’re holding is a proof or a regular strike, a free coin identifier app can help you figure that out quickly using just your phone’s camera. Tools like these take the guesswork out of coin identification, which is especially useful when you’re new to the hobby.
Understanding the Different Versions and Their Values
Not all 2009-S Guam Quarters are created equal. There are two main versions collectors look for: the Clad Proof and the Silver Proof. Both were struck at San Francisco with sharp, mirror-like finishes, but the silver version is made from 90% silver, which gives it extra appeal — and extra value.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what each version is typically worth:
| Version | Metal Content | Mintage | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009-S Clad Proof | Copper-Nickel Clad | 2,113,478 | $3 – $8 |
| 2009-S Silver Proof | 90% Silver | 697,365 | $8 – $18+ |
| PR70 DCAM (Clad) | Copper-Nickel Clad | Limited graded | $25 – $60 |
| PR70 DCAM (Silver) | 90% Silver | Limited graded | $50 – $100+ |
As you can see, a professionally graded proof in perfect condition can be worth significantly more than face value. The grade “PR70 DCAM” means the coin is in perfect proof condition with deep cameo contrast — basically as good as it gets.
How Condition Affects the 2009-S Guam Quarter Value
Condition is everything in coin collecting. Even though proof coins are generally well-preserved, small nicks, fingerprints, or storage damage can lower a coin’s grade — and its value.
Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being perfect and anything above 60 considered “mint state” or “proof state.” For the 2009-S Guam Quarter, most raw (ungraded) proofs fall somewhere in the PR65 to PR68 range.
For detailed, up-to-date pricing based on grade and condition, you can check out current market values for 2009 Guam Quarter proofs to see exactly what buyers are paying right now. Prices can shift based on silver spot prices, collector demand, and auction results.
If you want to get a fast estimate on any coin in your collection, CoinHix is a great app to try. Just take a photo, and it identifies your coin and gives you an instant value estimate — no coin expertise required.
Is It Worth Getting Your 2009-S Guam Quarter Graded?
Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC adds credibility to your coin and can unlock higher sale prices — but it also costs money. Grading fees typically start around $20 to $30 per coin, so it only makes sense if your coin is likely to grade high (PR68 or above).
For the silver proof version in great condition, submitting for grading can absolutely be worth it. A PR70 DCAM Silver Proof has sold for over $80 at auction.
Before spending money on grading, it’s smart to get a rough estimate of your coin’s condition first. CoinHix lets you do exactly that — it uses AI to analyze your coin’s surface and give you a preliminary grade estimate before you commit to any fees. It’s a practical first step that saves both time and money.
Where to Sell Your 2009-S Guam Quarter
If you’ve decided your coin is worth selling, you have several options. eBay is the most popular marketplace for proof coins like this, and you can see what similar coins actually sold for by checking completed listings.
Coin shows and local coin shops are also good options, especially if you prefer dealing in person. Just make sure you know your coin’s approximate value before walking in — dealers need to make a profit, so their offers are usually below market retail.
Online collector forums and Facebook coin groups are another avenue worth exploring. Collectors there often pay fair prices because they’re buying directly from sellers without a middleman.
For a quick gut-check on value before any sale, use CoinHix to confirm what you have and get a market value estimate in seconds. Knowing your number before negotiating always puts you in a stronger position.
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FAQ About the 2009-S Guam Quarter
Q: Is the 2009-S Guam Quarter made of silver?
A: It depends on which version you have. The 2009-S Silver Proof Guam Quarter is made from 90% silver and is worth more than the clad version. The clad proof is copper-nickel and has less intrinsic metal value, though it’s still a collectible coin.
Q: How can I tell if my 2009-S Guam Quarter is a proof coin?
A: Proof coins have a very sharp, mirror-like background and frosted, raised designs. They were never meant for circulation, so they should look almost perfect. If yours looks dull or worn, it may be a different mint or a well-circulated coin. Use a magnifying glass or a coin app like CoinHix to check more closely.
Q: Where was the 2009-S Guam Quarter made?
A: The “S” mintmark tells you it was struck at the San Francisco Mint in California. San Francisco is known for producing some of the highest-quality proof coins in U.S. Mint history, which is part of what makes these quarters desirable to collectors.
