Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $5 Million USD + 5 More Worth Over $100,000! USA Collectibles:- Coins are some of the most intriguing collectibles in the world, with certain rare specimens fetching astronomical prices at auctions.
Among these, the Bicentennial Quarter stands out, particularly one of its variants, which is rumored to be worth $5 million USD.
The United States Mint produced a series of commemorative coins in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only their face value (25 cents), a few have become valuable due to their rarity, errors, or unique features.
This article will delve into the Bicentennial Quarter worth $5 million, explain why some collectors are willing to pay such enormous amounts, and discuss five other rare quarters worth over $100,000 USD that have captured the attention of collectors.
The Bicentennial Quarter: A Coin Like No Other
In 1976, the U.S. Mint released a special edition of the quarter to mark the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The Bicentennial Quarter was unique in several ways:
- The obverse (front) featured the familiar portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan.
- The reverse (back) showed a depiction of the Liberty Bell superimposed over the 13 stars, symbolizing the 13 original colonies.
What made this quarter particularly significant was the widespread popularity it received among collectors.
A total of 1.6 billion Bicentennial Quarters were minted, making them relatively common. However, some errors and variations have caused a few of these coins to be worth significantly more.
The $5 Million Bicentennial Quarter: The Missing Mintmark Mystery
The rare Bicentennial Quarter worth $5 million is an error coin that was inadvertently minted without a mintmark.
Most quarters from this series have a mintmark indicating whether they were produced in Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S).
However, one specific 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter, which should have had a “D” mintmark, was produced without any mintmark at all.
This mistake was likely caused by a malfunction at the Denver Mint during production. The resulting quarter is an incredibly rare error, and its scarcity has driven its value to unprecedented heights.
While no one can definitively say how much this coin is worth, an expert estimate places its value at $5 million USD, based on its rarity, historical significance, and the growing demand among collectors. Some believe this coin could be the most valuable quarter in history.
5 More Rare Quarters Worth Over $100,000
While the Bicentennial Quarter without a mintmark is undoubtedly the most valuable of its kind, there are several other rare and valuable quarters that collectors actively seek. Here are five more quarters worth over $100,000 that have made headlines for their exceptional value:
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. This was the first year that the Washington Quarter was minted, and it features the portrait of George Washington.
The 1932-D version is especially rare because only 436,800 of these coins were struck at the Denver Mint, making it one of the most limited editions of the Washington Quarter series.
Coins in good condition can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, with higher-grade specimens commanding prices over $200,000. The rarity and the historical significance of this coin make it a top pick for collectors.
2. 1873 Seated Liberty Quarter (No Arrows)
The 1873 Seated Liberty Quarter was minted in a time when the U.S. was transitioning its coinage. The “No Arrows” version of this quarter is particularly valuable.
The “Arrows” refer to the minting change that was made to the coin in the same year to indicate a reduction in the weight of the coin. The “No Arrows” variety was produced for only a brief period, making it extremely rare.
In excellent condition, the 1873 Seated Liberty Quarter (No Arrows) can be worth between $100,000 to $250,000 or more, depending on its grade.
3. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is another rare coin that commands a high price. This quarter features a unique design with Lady Liberty standing holding a shield and a torch.
The 1916 version is particularly desirable because it was the first year of minting for this design and had a relatively low mintage.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter in excellent condition can be worth anywhere from $75,000 to over $150,000, and coins in mint state can even reach prices as high as $300,000 at auction.
4. 1896-S Barber Quarter
The 1896-S Barber Quarter, produced in San Francisco, is one of the rarest and most valuable coins from the Barber Quarter series.
Only about 110,000 of these quarters were minted, making them exceptionally rare. As a result, the 1896-S Barber Quarter is in high demand among collectors who specialize in this series.
Depending on its condition, the 1896-S Barber Quarter can be worth anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000. Coins with higher grades, such as those graded MS-64 or better, can fetch even higher amounts.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel (Error Coin)
Although this is technically a nickel and not a quarter, it’s worth mentioning because it represents the extreme value that certain error coins can attain.
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. During minting, a die error led to a missing leg on the buffalo’s body, creating a highly collectible and rare variant.
The value of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel ranges from $100,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on its condition and provenance.
| Coin Name | Year | Mintmark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (No Mintmark) | 1976 | None | Up to $5 million USD |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | D | $10,000 – $200,000+ |
| 1873 Seated Liberty Quarter (No Arrows) | 1873 | None | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | None | $75,000 – $300,000 |
| 1896-S Barber Quarter | 1896 | S | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | D | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
Why are Bicentennial Quarters worth so much?
The Bicentennial Quarters are typically worth face value, but certain error coins (like the no-mintmark variety) can be worth millions due to their rarity and the demand from collectors.
How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Look for specific errors or unusual variations, such as missing mintmarks, double strikes, or unusual wear patterns. Consult with a professional numismatist for accurate valuation.
Are there any other rare U.S. coins worth millions?
Yes! Coins like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel and the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar have sold for millions at auction, making them some of the most expensive coins in history.
What makes error coins so valuable?
Error coins are valuable because they are unique or extremely rare. Collectors prize these coins for their historical significance and the rarity of the mistake that led to their creation.
How should I store my rare coins?
Store rare coins in protective cases, such as capsules or holders, and keep them in a cool, dry, and secure environment to preserve their condition.