The thrill of discovering a rare coin in a handful of loose change is a dream for many collectors.
In the world of numismatics, certain quarters stand out not just for their historical significance but also for their extraordinary value.
At the forefront is the Bicentennial Quarter, a coin that has fetched nearly $40 million USD.
This article explores this phenomenal quarter along with six other quarters, each valued over $800,000, detailing their unique features and the stories behind their high valuations.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Nearly $50 Million USD
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, commemorating America’s 200th year of independence, is often found in pocket change.
However, a rare variant of this quarter, struck with a special mint error and in pristine condition, has achieved legendary status.
This particular quarter was mistakenly double-struck on a 90% silver planchet, meant for collector sets only.
The rarity and the error combined with its historical significance led to its almost mythical valuation at auction.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter – Over $600,000
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins by collectors due to its low mintage numbers.
Only 408,000 pieces were minted, making it one of the rarest in the Washington quarter series.
A coin in almost perfect condition (MS-67) can easily fetch over $600,000. Its scarcity and the public’s enduring admiration for George Washington contribute to its high demand and corresponding value.
3. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter – Approximately $1.5 Million
This quarter features the iconic Draped Bust design by Robert Scot and is one of the earliest quarters ever minted by the U.S. Mint. With only 6,146 pieces originally struck, its rarity is unquestioned.
Collectors value this quarter not just for its scarcity but also for its age and the beauty of its design.
Pristine examples have fetched upwards of $1.5 million at auction, reflecting its desirability among serious collectors.
4. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter – Over $700,000
Known among collectors for the rarity of its overdate feature, where the numeral ‘3’ in the date was struck over a ‘2’, this quarter is a numismatic marvel.
Only a few specimens are known to exist in higher grades, and their rarity is significantly enhanced by the overdate error.
This specific error, combined with its excellent preservation, has driven its auction price to more than $700,000.
5. 1901-S Barber Quarter – Up to $550,000
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is known as the “King of Barber Quarters” due to its extreme rarity and the high prices it commands, with top-condition examples approaching $550,000.
Minted in San Francisco, only 72,664 pieces were produced. Its rarity is so renowned that even lower-grade examples are highly prized and carry a substantial price tag.
6. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – Nearly $400,000
Introduced in 1916, this quarter features a distinctive design with Lady Liberty prominently displayed.
With only a few months of production before the design was changed, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is exceedingly rare, especially in higher grades.
Its short mintage period and historical context make it a valuable find, with specimens in pristine condition valued at nearly $400,000.
7. 1896-S Barber Quarter – Over $300,000
With only 188,039 pieces minted, the 1896-S Barber Quarter is another rare gem from the Barber series.
Due to its low survival rate in higher grades, this quarter is exceedingly rare and highly valued.
Pristine examples have fetched over $300,000 at auctions, making it a coveted piece for high-end collectors.
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Conclusion
Collecting quarters can be more than just a hobby; it can be an investment into pieces of American history that appreciate over time.
The quarters listed above represent some of the most prized and valuable in the numismatic world, each with a story that reflects a different era of American minting history.
Whether driven by errors, design, or sheer rarity, the value of these quarters demonstrates the enduring appeal and financial potential of coin collecting.