The allure of coin collecting lies not just in the beauty and history of the coins but also in the thrill of discovering a piece worth far more than its face value. Among these treasures, the Bicentennial Quarter holds a special place, particularly a rare variant that fetched nearly $201K USD.
This article cuts into this extraordinary find and highlights six additional quarters, each valued over $25K USD, showcasing the unexpected wealth that might be hiding in plain sight within your coin collection.
Bicentennial
The Bicentennial Quarter, released in 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary of independence, is usually worth no more than its face value. However, a rare variant struck with a 40% silver composition, intended for collectors, recently sold for nearly $201K USD.
This quarter was part of a special mint set and was distinguished by its exceptional condition, rarity, and historical significance. Its high grade, certified by professional grading services, along with its silver content and the bicentennial celebration it commemorates, contributed to its astonishing value.
Washington
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key rarity in the Washington quarter series, with a mintage of only 408,000 pieces. This quarter can fetch over $25K USD in pristine condition. Its value is driven by its low mintage, making it highly sought after by collectors. The “S” mint mark, indicating its San Francisco origin, adds to its allure, making it a prized possession for serious collectors.
Copper
The 1943 Copper Quarter is a numismatic anomaly, as quarters were supposed to be struck in silver during this period. However, a few were mistakenly made in copper, making them incredibly rare. A well-preserved 1943 Copper Quarter can easily surpass the $25K USD mark. Its value is attributed to its rarity, error status, and the intriguing story behind its creation.
Overmintmark
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter features both the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mint marks, due to a mint error where a D mint mark was punched over an S. This error created a rarity sought after by collectors, with values exceeding $25K for high-grade examples. Its uniqueness and the error’s historical context make it a fascinating piece for any collection.
Doubled Die
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter is known for its doubling visible on the reverse side, particularly in the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This error resulted from a misalignment during the minting process, creating a visually striking doubling effect. High-grade examples of this quarter can command prices over $25K, appreciated for their rarity and the distinctiveness of the error.
Small Date
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Quarter is notable for its small date font, a variation from the standard large date font used in the same year. This variation, particularly in high grades, can be worth over $25K. Collectors value it for its rarity and the subtlety of the variation, which adds an intriguing layer to its collection.
1983-P
The 1983-P Washington Quarter is rare in high grades due to the low survival rate of quarters from this year in uncirculated condition. A mint state example can be valued at over $25K, making it a modern rarity. Its value is a testament to the importance of condition in determining a coin’s worth, even for relatively recent issues.
| Quarter | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | $201,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | $25,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Quarter | $25,000+ |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter | $25,000+ |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter | $25,000+ |
| 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Quarter | $25,000+ |
| 1983-P Washington Quarter | $25,000+ |
Collecting quarters transcends mere hobbyist activity, evolving into a thrilling quest for historically significant and financially valuable pieces. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter and the six others highlighted demonstrate how small pieces of metal can carry immense legacy and value. Whether you’re an experienced collector or new to the hobby, the hunt for these rare quarters promises a rewarding and fascinating journey.
FAQs
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter special?
Its 40% silver composition and exceptional condition make it nearly priceless.
Why is the 1932-S Washington Quarter valuable?
Its low mintage and San Francisco origin boost its value.
How did the 1943 Copper Quarter mistake happen?
A few quarters were mistakenly struck in copper instead of silver.
What is unique about the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter?
It features both Denver and San Francisco mint marks due to an error.
Why is the 1983-P Washington Quarter important?
It’s rare in high grades, making it a modern rarity for collectors.
