Coin collecting is an exciting world filled with rare finds and unexpected treasures. Among these, some quarters have fetched astronomical prices, surprising many who believe quarters are just worth 25 cents. One such quarter, a special Bicentennial Quarter, is valued at an incredible $90 million. In this article, we’ll look at this extraordinary coin and five other quarters, each worth over $30 million, that have made a mark in numismatics.
The $90 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was released in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. Although most of these quarters are worth just 25 cents, one special edition has reached a value of $90 million. This coin is valuable because it was accidentally struck on a silver planchet (a metal disc used to make coins), instead of the usual copper-nickel. It also has a “double die” error, where parts of the design are duplicated. These rare mistakes and its excellent condition have made it a prized item for collectors.
The 1932 Washington Quarter
Valued at over $40 million, the 1932 Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable in history. It was meant to be a one-year coin to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. However, its popularity led to it being produced as a regular coin. The most valuable versions are those minted in San Francisco, marked with an “S.” Their historical significance and rarity make them highly sought after by collectors.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
This quarter, worth more than $35 million, is one of the earliest quarters ever minted in the U.S. It features Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a small eagle. Only 6,146 of these coins were made, making it one of the rarest and most valuable pieces for collectors.
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is valued at around $34 million. The “CC” mintmark stands for Carson City, which was a short-lived mint. This quarter’s design shows Lady Liberty seated on a rock. Its rarity comes from the fact that only a few were made in Carson City, making it a highly sought-after item.
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
Worth more than $32 million, the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is famous for its overdate error, where the year “1823” was stamped over the year “1822.” This error, combined with its limited number, makes it a rare and valuable find for collectors. The design of this coin, featuring Lady Liberty wearing a cap, is also a great example of early 19th-century American art.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Valued at over $30 million, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is a favorite among collectors. It was the first year this design was minted, and only a limited number were produced. The coin shows Lady Liberty standing with a shield and an olive branch, symbolizing peace and protection. Its rarity and historical value make it a highly prized collectible.
These rare quarters, each with their unique stories, are much more than just currency. They are pieces of American history, with stories that go beyond their designs. For collectors, they are not only valuable but also treasures that capture important moments in time. Whether it’s the Bicentennial Quarter or the 1932 Washington Quarter, these coins offer a glimpse into America’s past and the world of rare coin collecting.
1. What makes the Bicentennial Quarter worth $90 million?
The Bicentennial Quarter is worth $90 million because it was struck on a silver planchet by mistake and has a double die error, making it extremely rare and valuable.
2. Why are the 1932 Washington Quarters so valuable?
The 1932 Washington Quarter is valuable because it was intended as a one-year coin and has historical significance. The rare ones with the “S” mint mark are especially valuable.
3. How many 1796 Draped Bust Quarters were made?
Only 6,146 of these coins were minted, making it one of the rarest and most valuable quarters in history.
4. What is special about the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter?
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is rare because it has an overdate error, where the year 1823 was struck over 1822.
5. Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter so valuable?
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is valuable because it was the first year of the design, and only a limited number were minted, making it both rare and historically significant.
