Coin collecting is more than just a hobby. It’s a journey through history, art, and economics, where small pieces of metal can tell grand stories. Among the most coveted are rare quarters—tiny treasures that sometimes fetch prices beyond imagination. One such coin, the Bicentennial Quarter, has garnered attention for being valued at nearly $10 million. Let’s look into this remarkable world and look into six more quarters that can sell for over $500,000.
Contents
- 1 Bicentennial
- 2 1932-D Washington
- 3 1932-S Washington
- 4 1916 Standing Liberty
- 5 1796 Draped Bust
- 6 1823/2 Capped Bust
- 7 1870-CC Liberty Seated
- 8 FAQs
- 8.1 What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
- 8.2 Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter so sought after?
- 8.3 How rare is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter?
- 8.4 Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $22 Million – 6 More Worth Over $50 Million USD
- 8.5 What is the significance of the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter?
- 8.6 Why is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter valuable?
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to honor America’s 200th birthday. This special edition features a dual date (1776-1976) and a unique drummer design on the reverse. While most of these coins hold only their 25-cent face value, one rare version, struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, has reached astronomical value. With minting errors like a double strike and an off-center design, one of these coins has been valued at nearly $10 million, making it a collector’s dream.
1932-D Washington
The 1932-D Washington Quarter stands out as a key date for collectors. With only 436,800 coins minted, it’s one of the rarest in the Washington Quarter series. Pristine examples, free from wear, can fetch upwards of $500,000. The significance of this coin being part of the first Washington Quarter release adds to its allure, making it a true gem for coin enthusiasts.
1932-S Washington
Another key coin from 1932, the 1932-S Washington Quarter, hails from the San Francisco Mint. Though its mintage of 408,000 is slightly higher than the 1932-D, it remains incredibly rare, especially in mint condition. Like its Denver counterpart, a flawless 1932-S Quarter can be valued at more than $500,000, especially when uncirculated and free from any marks.
1916 Standing Liberty
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter holds a special place as the first coin in the Standing Liberty series. With only 52,000 minted, it’s an exceedingly rare piece, particularly in higher grades. Quarters from this year that feature the full head detail are especially prized by collectors. When found in exceptional condition, this coin can command more than $500,000, thanks to both its rarity and historical importance.
1796 Draped Bust
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the earliest American quarters and is treasured for its historical value. Only 6,146 were minted, making it an exceptionally rare find. This quarter features a distinctive design with a small eagle on the reverse side. Well-preserved examples of the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter often surpass $500,000 at auction, attracting both history buffs and collectors of early U.S. coinage.
1823/2 Capped Bust
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter stands out due to its overdate feature—where the date was changed from 1822 to 1823 during the minting process. This rare minting error, combined with its low mintage, makes it highly desirable. Quarters in top condition are highly sought after and can easily fetch more than $500,000, thanks to their unique blend of rarity and error.
1870-CC Liberty Seated
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter from the Carson City Mint is a coin steeped in lore. With its very low mintage, this quarter is a true rarity. The Carson City Mint itself adds an extra layer of allure for collectors, due to its legendary status in U.S. coin history. In mint condition, this quarter can be worth well over $500,000, making it a crown jewel for any serious collector.
Rare quarters are more than just currency—they are pieces of history, art, and craftsmanship rolled into one. For collectors, finding one of these treasures can be like striking gold. As you build your collection, always keep an eye out for these unique finds. You never know when a 25-cent coin might turn into a fortune!
FAQs
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
A rare silver version with minting errors is worth millions.
Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter so sought after?
It has a low mintage and historical significance as the first in its series.
How rare is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter?
Only 52,000 were minted, making it extremely rare.
What is the significance of the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter?
Its overdate error makes it highly collectible.
Why is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter valuable?
It’s one of the earliest American quarters, with a very limited mintage.