The 1976 Bicentennial quarter stands out as an iconic piece of American currency, minted to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary. While most of these coins hold only face value, a select few have fetched incredible prices at auction. A silver Bicentennial quarter recently made headlines by selling for $1.35 million. Let’s dive into the details of this extraordinary coin and six other quarters worth over $250,000, each with a fascinating story.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Silver Quarter – $1.35 Million
- Design: The reverse features a colonial drummer, while the obverse bears the dual date “1776–1976.”
- Why It’s Valuable: This quarter, struck on a 90% silver planchet meant for proof sets, entered circulation due to a minting error. Its rarity, composition, and historical significance have made it a record-breaking collectible.
- What to Look For: Check the edge for a solid silver color, distinguishing it from standard copper-nickel clad coins.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter – Over $250,000
- Why It’s Valuable: The first year of the Washington quarter series saw only 436,800 coins minted in Denver. High-grade examples are extremely sought after.
- What to Look For: The “D” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse indicates its Denver origin.
3. 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter – Over $250,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Minted in Carson City, only 8,340 were produced, and most were lost or melted.
- What to Look For: The “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse is a key identifier. Professional authentication is essential due to counterfeits.
4. 1901-S Barber Quarter – Over $250,000
- Why It’s Valuable: With a mintage of just 72,664, the 1901-S Barber quarter is the rarest in its series. Fewer than 1,000 survive, making it highly desirable among collectors.
- What to Look For: The “S” mint mark beneath the eagle is a sign of its San Francisco origin.
5. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter – Over $300,000
- Why It’s Valuable: This overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2,” creates a unique collector’s item.
- What to Look For: Examine the date for doubling or remnants of the “2” underneath, best confirmed with magnification.
6. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter – Over $250,000
- Why It’s Valuable: As the first quarter minted in U.S. history, with a mintage of only 6,146, its historical significance drives its value.
- What to Look For: The obverse shows Lady Liberty, and the reverse features a small eagle. Even heavily worn examples hold immense value.
7. 1871-CC Liberty Seated Quarter – Over $250,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Only 10,890 were minted at Carson City, making it one of the rarest quarters from the era.
- What to Look For: Look for the “CC” mint mark on the reverse. These coins are highly prized in any condition.
Final Thoughts
Whether due to minting errors, historical significance, or extremely low mintage, these rare quarters have become treasures for collectors. If you’re a coin enthusiast, keep an eye out for these valuable pieces—your spare change could hold a fortune!
FAQs for the Article on Rare Quarters Worth a Fortune
1. What makes the 1976 Bicentennial silver quarter worth $1.35 million?
The $1.35 million Bicentennial silver quarter was mistakenly struck on a 90% silver planchet intended for proof sets. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance as part of the Bicentennial series, drives its extraordinary value.
2. How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the coin’s edge:
- A solid silver edge indicates a silver planchet.
- A visible copper stripe identifies a standard copper-nickel clad quarter.
3. Why is the 1932-D Washington quarter so valuable?
The Denver Mint produced only 436,800 quarters in 1932, the first year of the Washington quarter series. Its low mintage and historical significance make it highly sought after, especially in near-mint condition.
4. What’s special about Carson City (CC) quarters?
Carson City (CC) quarters, like the 1870-CC and 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarters, are rare due to their low mintages and the historical significance of the Carson City Mint. These coins are always in high demand among collectors.
5. How can I identify an overdate error on the 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter?
Look closely at the date on the coin. The “3” in the year will appear to be struck over a “2.” A magnifying glass or professional coin grading service can help confirm this detail.
6. Why is the 1796 Draped Bust quarter so valuable?
As the first quarter minted in U.S. history, the 1796 Draped Bust quarter has immense historical importance. Its low mintage of just 6,146 coins makes it extremely rare and valuable.
7. How much are worn or circulated versions of these rare quarters worth?
Even in circulated or worn condition, these coins can fetch high prices:
- Bicentennial silver quarters and Carson City quarters are valuable regardless of condition.
- A worn 1932-D Washington quarter or 1901-S Barber quarter can still sell for thousands of dollars.
8. How can I avoid counterfeit rare quarters?
To avoid fakes:
- Purchase coins from reputable dealers.
- Look for coins certified and graded by trusted organizations such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
- If unsure, seek professional authentication.
9. Can I find any of these rare quarters in circulation today?
While it’s extremely unlikely, rare coins like these occasionally surface in circulation due to inheritance or lack of awareness about their value. It’s always worth checking your change for unusual features or mint marks.
10. What should I do if I think I have a valuable quarter?
If you believe you have a rare or valuable quarter:
- Have it professionally appraised or graded by a trusted numismatic organization.
- Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can significantly decrease its value.
- Research its history, mint mark, and condition to determine its worth.
11. Where can I sell a rare quarter?
You can sell rare coins through:
- Coin auctions (e.g., Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers).
- Reputable coin dealers.
- Online marketplaces specializing in collectibles, such as eBay or certified coin trading platforms.
12. What’s the best way to start collecting rare quarters?
Start by:
- Learning about U.S. coin history and mint marks.
- Joining a numismatic organization or community.
- Investing in tools like magnifying glasses and coin books.
- Beginning with affordable coins and gradually expanding your collection as your knowledge grows.