Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby, but some coins are far more valuable than others. Among these rare coins is the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary. Although most quarters are just pocket change, one version of this coin has been sold for nearly $10 million!
This article explores this exceptional quarter and highlights six other quarters that are each valued at over $500,000, drawing interest from collectors and historians alike.
The $10 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The $10 million Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most extraordinary coins in the world of numismatics. This rare coin stands out because it was minted with 90% silver and features a unique double die obverse, meaning the design was mistakenly stamped twice. The quarter also depicts a colonial drummer and a victory torch surrounded by 13 stars, symbolizing American independence. The coin’s perfect condition and its deep historical connection make it an incredibly valuable and sought-after collector’s item.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is another valuable coin, worth over $500,000. Only 436,800 pieces of this quarter were minted in Denver that year, making it a rare find. The coin commemorates the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, and due to its low mintage and the fact that few well-preserved examples exist, it is highly prized by collectors.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is very similar to the 1932-D but even rarer. Only 408,000 were minted in San Francisco, making it extremely valuable, especially in top condition. This quarter honors George Washington as the first U.S. president and is a significant part of American history.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the oldest and most valuable coins, with a value over $500,000. Only 6,146 coins were minted, and it features a small eagle on the reverse side, a design used only for two years. The rarity and historical importance of this coin make it highly desirable for collectors.
1804 Draped Bust Quarter
Another rare quarter from the early days of America is the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter. Like the 1796 Draped Bust, it is valued at over $500,000. With a low mintage and featuring a heraldic eagle on its reverse side, this quarter reflects the early strength of the United States. It is one of the final coins minted with this design before it was changed in 1804.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is another rare coin, valued at over $500,000. It is unique because the number “3” in the year was struck over a “2,” a mistake that occurred due to the less advanced technology at the time. This error makes the coin even more valuable and historically significant.
1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is another treasure, worth over $500,000. Minted at the Carson City Mint, only a few examples exist in good condition. The low mintage and historical connection to the Carson City Mint make this coin highly sought after by collectors.
Rare quarters offer a window into America’s history and the development of its currency. From the $10 million Bicentennial Quarter to others worth over $500,000, these coins tell stories of the nation’s past. They are more than just currency; they are tangible links to the past, highly valued for both their rarity and historical importance. Collectors continue to seek out these coins, preserving a piece of American heritage.
1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is worth millions due to its unique design, rare minting error, and historical importance, especially the 90% silver version.
2. How much is the 1932-D Washington Quarter worth?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter can be valued over $500,000 because only 436,800 were minted, making it very rare.
3. What makes the 1932-S Washington Quarter special?
This quarter is rare because only 408,000 were minted in San Francisco, and it honors George Washington.
4. Why are the Draped Bust Quarters so valuable?
The 1796 and 1804 Draped Bust Quarters are valuable due to their low mintages and their important role in early American coinage.
5. What is an overdate on a coin?
An overdate occurs when one number is struck over another, like on the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter, which adds to its rarity and value.
