Coins have been cherished for centuries, especially rare and valuable quarters. Some of these small pieces of currency are worth astonishing amounts, and collectors often pay top prices for them. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of rare quarters, including a Bicentennial Quarter that’s valued at nearly $40,000 and five other quarters that can sell for over $120,000 each.
Bicentennial Quarter – Nearly $40,000 Value
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976, was made to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. What makes it especially valuable is a minting mistake. Some of these quarters were struck on silver planchets meant for proof coins, making them extremely rare. A perfectly preserved Bicentennial Quarter with this error can be worth around $40,000.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – Over $120,000
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in history. Designed by artist Hermon A. MacNeil, it features a beautifully detailed image of Liberty. The 1916 version is especially rare because it shows Liberty with a bare breast, which led to fewer coins being struck that year. A 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter in good condition can easily sell for over $120,000.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter – Over $120,000
Dating back to the early days of the United States Mint, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a true numismatic treasure. The quarter features a graceful image of Liberty with flowing drapery, and only a few hundred are believed to exist today. Because of its age and limited number, a Draped Bust Quarter in excellent condition can be worth more than $120,000.
1932-D Washington Quarter – Over $120,000
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest in the Washington Quarter series, with a mintmark “D” showing it was struck at the Denver Mint. Only about 400,000 of these quarters were made, and those in excellent condition can be worth more than $120,000 at auctions due to their rarity.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter – Over $120,000
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is a more modern coin, but it has become highly valuable due to a unique error. Some of these quarters feature an “Extra Leaf” on the ear of corn on the reverse side. This rare die variety makes the coin highly sought after, and collectors are willing to pay over $120,000 for one in excellent condition.
Rare quarters hold a special place in coin collecting. From the nearly $40,000 Bicentennial Quarter to historic coins like the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, these valuable pieces of currency tell the story of America’s history. If you happen to find one of these rare coins in your pocket change or inherit a collection, you could be holding a small fortune.
1. What makes the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is valuable because some were mistakenly struck on silver planchets, making them rare and highly sought after by collectors.
2. Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter so expensive?
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is rare because it was only produced for one year, and the design of Liberty with a bare breast led to fewer coins being made.
3. How many 1796 Draped Bust Quarters still exist?
Only a few hundred 1796 Draped Bust Quarters are believed to still exist, making them incredibly rare and worth a lot of money.
4. Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is rare because only 400,000 were minted, and those in good condition are highly prized by collectors.
5. What is the “Extra Leaf” on the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter?
The “Extra Leaf” refers to an error on some 2004 Wisconsin State Quarters, where an extra leaf appears on the corn, making these coins rare and valuable.