Coin collecting is an incredibly rewarding hobby that combines history, artistry, and economics. Among the many coins that collectors chase after, rare quarters hold a special appeal because of their worth and historical significance. Probably the most intriguing coin ever discovered is the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the founding of America.
Generally speaking, most Bicentennial Quarters are worth no more than their 25-cent face value, but a few ultra-rare varieties have achieved spectacular prices, one being estimated nearly $10 million. This article discusses some quarters, some of them the rarest specimens, including the legendary Bicentennial Quarter and other historic coins, which can bear a price tag above $500,000.
Bicentennial Quarter
The quarter was struck to commemorate the U.S.’s 200th birthday. The reverse features a colonial drummer and a torch encircled by 13 stars, while the obverse bears the very passport of the quarter, with the dual date of “1776-1976.”
Most of these quarters are common, and many can still be found circulating in the markets and stores today. However, the valuable one, which is super rare, was struck on a 90% silver blank rather than the regular copper-nickel blend-it is nearly worth 10 million dollars.
Why Do They Sell for Such Exorbitant Prices?
This quarter is astronomically valuable because of its rarity and unique characteristics that pertain to:
- Minting Errors: All of these make the coin more desirable: double strikes, off-center designs, and other minting curiosities and irregularities.
- Material Composition: Since 90% silver is an extremely rare anomaly for any Bicentennial Quarters, the value becomes even much higher.
- Historical Significance: As a commemorative coin, it represents a watershed moment in the history of this country.
Which is why collectors are willing to shell out crazy amounts of dollars for this rare beauty, thereby cementing its fame in the world of numismatics.
1932-D Washington Quarter
Another great really respected coin is the 1932-D Washington Quarter minted in Denver. This coin marks the very first of the ratings of the Washington Quarter series; hence, it has its historical significance.
Why Special?
- Limited Mintage: Only 436,800 coins were made, making it one of the rarest Washington Quarters.
- Historic Value: It being the very first coin of the Washington Quarter series carries a great historic value.
- Market Value: It can sell for above $500,000 at any auction in excellent condition.
Owning this quarter is like owning a piece of American history; thus, it is the holy grail for the collectors.
1932-S Washington Quarter
from the mint in San Francisco is also highly sought after by collectors, almost matching the rarity of the Denver variety.
What sets it apart?
- Scarcity: While slightly more common than the 1932-D, the 1932-S is still incredibly rare.
- High-Grade Value: Quarters in near-perfect condition can easily surpass $500,000, especially those with sharp detail and original luster.
A coin that belongs to every Washington Quarter series is an essential find for a collector attempting to complete a series.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter has more attraction on its rarity than just its beautiful design.
Central Features and Worth Factor
- Very low mintage: Just 52,000 coins were produced, which makes it one of the rarest quarters in the history of the United States.
- Iconic Design: Most consider this to be one of the most beautiful coin designs that has ever been drawn by humans, depicting Lady Liberty standing with a shield.
- Very expensive: High-grade examples, especially those with full head details, would command prices in excess of $500,000.
This quarter marked the start of a new era in American coin design, and it still stands today as a collector’s favorite.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
Part of the elite class of quarters was minted in the United States, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, and its acquisition becomes a must for the serious collector.
Why It Is Valuable:
-In Historical Terms: This is one of the first quarters made in the country, heralding the birth of U.S. coinage.
- Extreme Rarity: Just 6,146 were issued, and there are even fewer survivors today.
- Market Value: Fine examples with the reverse design of a small eagle fetched more than $500,000.
It’s like actually facilitating one’s early American history-basis in one’s palm.
FAQS:
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $10 million?
Due to the striking difference in the minting, the 90% silver planchet version makes it extraordinarily valuable.
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
With that low mintage number of coins produced at 436,800, it is definitely one of the rarest Washington Quarters.
How many 1796 Draped Bust Quarters exist today?
Only a small number of them are extant, as just 6,146 coins were minted originally.
What is an over date error?
An overdate error is when a new date is stamped over an old one, as is the case of the 1823/2 Quarter.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
You can sell valuable quarters at coin auctions, to numismatic dealers, or on online marketplaces such as eBay.