Coin collecting can be an exciting hobby, especially when it involves discovering coins worth much more than their face value. Some quarters, such as the Bicentennial Quarter and the 1932 Washington Quarter, have fetched millions of dollars due to their rarity, unique features, and historical importance.
This article highlights the most valuable quarters, with some fetching prices as high as $90 million. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of these valuable coins and uncover what makes each of them so unique.
The $90 Million Bicentennial Quarter
In 1976, the U.S. Mint released a special edition Bicentennial Quarter to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence. One of these quarters, due to its unique features, sold for nearly $90 million.
This particular coin was struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel material and includes a double die obverse error. These combined features, along with the coin’s mint condition, make it incredibly rare and valuable.
The 1932 Washington Quarter – Over $40 Million
The 1932 Washington Quarter holds a special place as the first coin in the Washington quarter series, originally minted to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. This series was so well-received that it became a regular issue.
Among these, the San Francisco-minted coins with an “S” mark are the rarest and most valuable, with some pieces valued at over $40 million due to their limited mintage and historical significance.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter – Over $35 Million
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a significant piece of American history as one of the first quarters ever minted in the United States. With only 6,146 pieces originally minted, this coin is exceptionally rare. Its design, featuring a portrait of Lady Liberty and a small eagle on the reverse, reflects the artistry of the late 18th century. Collectors are willing to pay high prices for this quarter due to its historical value and scarcity.
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter – About $34 Million
This quarter, minted in 1870 at the Carson City Mint, is part of the Liberty Seated series and is valued at approximately $34 million. The Carson City Mint, identified by the “CC” mint mark, was in operation for only a short time,
adding to the rarity of these coins. Featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, this quarter’s limited production and historical connection to the Old West make it a coveted piece for collectors.
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter – Over $32 Million
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is another valuable coin due to a unique “overdate” error where the year 1823 was struck over an 1822 quarter. This design flaw, along with its low production number,
makes it extremely rare. Its design, showing Lady Liberty with a cap, is representative of early American coin styles and adds to its collector appeal.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – Just Over $30 Million
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is cherished by collectors for both its design and rarity. This quarter, introduced in 1916, was the first to feature the Standing Liberty design, with Liberty holding a shield and olive branch.
Only a small number of these coins were minted, making them incredibly rare. Their historical significance and beautiful design are key factors in their high valuation, often reaching just over $30 million.
Coin collecting is more than just a hobby; it can be a journey through history, art, and rarity. Each of these valuable quarters—ranging from the Bicentennial Quarter to the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter—offers a glimpse into American history
and the unique qualities that make certain coins highly sought after. Whether it’s a design error or historical significance, these quarters are cherished by collectors and demonstrate the fascinating intersection of art, history, and value.
1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is valued so highly due to its unique errors, such as being struck on a 90% silver planchet and having a double die obverse. These features, combined with its pristine condition, make it one of the rarest and most expensive quarters.
2. What makes the 1932 Washington Quarter special?
The 1932 Washington Quarter is special because it marked the beginning of the Washington quarter series. Additionally, certain coins from this series, particularly those with an “S” mint mark, are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
3. How can a coin’s design error increase its value?
Design errors, such as the overdate in the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter, add rarity to a coin, as these mistakes were typically corrected quickly. Coins with errors are unique and often valued more by collectors for their unusual features.
4. Why are quarters from the Carson City Mint so rare?
The Carson City Mint, represented by the “CC” mint mark, operated only briefly and produced limited quantities of coins. This rarity makes coins like the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter especially valuable to collectors.
5. What should collectors look for in a valuable coin?
Collectors often seek coins with unique features, such as mint errors, limited production, historical significance, and excellent condition. Coins with these qualities, like the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, tend to have a much higher value.
