Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby, filled with hidden treasures and coins worth staggering amounts. Some rare quarters, for example, are valued at over half a million dollars! In this guide, we’ll look at the most valuable quarters, including the famous Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $20 million USD. These coins aren’t just currency; they’re pieces of history.
The $20 Million Bicentennial Quarter
In 1976, the U.S. released the Bicentennial Quarter to celebrate America’s 200th year of independence. While most of these quarters are only worth face value, there’s a rare version worth almost $20 million. This quarter’s extreme value comes from a minting error and its excellent condition, making it highly sought after by collectors.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is another valuable coin. It was minted in Denver, and fewer coins were produced than usual, making it quite rare. A well-preserved 1932-D can be worth over $500,000.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter
Like its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington Quarter from the San Francisco mint is also extremely rare. With limited production, finding a 1932-S in good condition is tough, and it can easily be worth over $500,000.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the first quarters ever made by the United States. Because it’s so old and rare, this coin is valued at more than $500,000, especially in great condition. It’s a special piece of American history.
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is another valuable early U.S. coin. Since very few were made, it’s one of the rarest quarters from the 19th century. If you find one in excellent shape, it could be worth over half a million dollars.
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
This coin is unique because of a minting mistake. The date on the coin says 1823, but it was stamped over an 1822 quarter, making it an “overdate” error. This special error makes the coin rare, and well-preserved examples can be worth more than $500,000.
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is incredibly rare, especially in higher grades. The limited number produced in Carson City makes this coin extremely valuable—often fetching over $500,000 for well-preserved pieces.
These rare quarters, from the $20 million Bicentennial Quarter to others worth over $500,000, aren’t just valuable because they’re old. They’re important pieces of American history, each with a unique story. For coin collectors and history lovers alike, these coins are treasures worth cherishing.
1. What makes the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The rare version of the Bicentennial Quarter is worth almost $20 million due to a minting error and its pristine condition.
2. Why are the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters so rare?
Both quarters had low production numbers, making them highly sought after by collectors, especially in excellent condition.
3. What is the significance of the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter?
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter was one of the first quarters ever minted in the U.S., making it a valuable piece of early American history.
4. What is an overdate error on coins?
An overdate error occurs when the date on a coin is struck over a different year, like on the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter.
5. Why is the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter so valuable?
It was minted in limited numbers in Carson City, making it rare and valuable, especially in well-preserved condition.
