While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only 25 cents, certain rare editions have skyrocketed in value, with one such coin recently valued at an astonishing $50 million USD.
You might be surprised to know that some quarters, even those minted as recently as the 1970s, can fetch millions.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at this rare Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $50 million, along with 5 more rare quarters worth over $300,000 USD. Coin collectors and investors alike will want to keep an eye out for these valuable gems!
Why Is This Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $50 Million?
The Bicentennial Quarter, released in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, is generally not considered a rare coin. However, one special misprinted error coin has captured the attention of numismatists and investors alike.
This rare Bicentennial Quarter is worth nearly $50 million due to a unique minting mistake that makes it stand out from the millions of standard Bicentennial coins produced.
The Error That Makes It Valuable
The misaligned die error on this quarter created a coin that is one of only a few known in existence. The error resulted in a distorted design, with elements of the coin’s engraving appearing to be shifted or doubled.
Such minting flaws are highly prized in the numismatic world, and coins with this type of error can be worth millions.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest coins in the Washington Quarter series. Only 436,800 of these quarters were minted, making it highly desirable. Due to its low mintage and historical importance, a well-preserved example can be worth over $300,000.
2. 1937-S Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1937-S Washington Quarter features a famous doubled die error on the obverse (the side with Washington’s portrait).
This error occurs when the die is improperly aligned during the minting process, causing Washington’s portrait to appear twice. Coins with this error are highly sought after, with prices reaching over $500,000.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted. With only a few thousand coins struck, it is extremely valuable, especially in high grades. Its historical significance and scarcity have made it worth well over $500,000.
4. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is the first year of the Standing Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch.
Its low mintage and beautiful design have made it highly valuable, with well-preserved examples worth over $300,000.
5. 1943 Washington Quarter (Silver)
During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced quarters using silver due to shortages of other metals.
The 1943 Washington Quarter, minted with silver, is highly collectible because of its historical context and the fact that it was made during wartime. These quarters can fetch over $300,000 when in excellent condition.
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage (436,800 coins) | Over $300,000 |
| 1937-S Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse) | 1937 | Doubled die error on Washington’s portrait | Over $500,000 |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | Extremely low mintage, early U.S. Mint | Over $500,000 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | First year of the Standing Liberty design | Over $300,000 |
| 1943 Washington Quarter (Silver) | 1943 | Silver coin issued during WWII | Over $300,000 |
Also see:-This Rare Bicentennial Quarter Has Nearly $60K Value 5 More Worth Over $6,000
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is worth nearly $50 million because of a rare minting error—specifically a misaligned die that resulted in a distorted design. Coins with errors like this can be worth millions because they are unique and hard to find.
How can I tell if my quarter is valuable?
To determine if your quarter is valuable, consider the following factors:
- Mint Year and Mintage: Quarters from certain years with low mintage are more valuable.
- Minting Errors: Look for unusual features, like doubled die or misaligned designs.
- Condition: Coins in excellent condition (graded by professionals) tend to be worth more.
Are there other quarters that are worth millions?
Yes! In addition to the Bicentennial Quarter, coins like the 1932-D Washington Quarter, the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter, and others have reached high values due to rarity, minting errors, and historical significance.
How do I sell my rare quarter?
If you think you have a valuable quarter, it’s important to have it authenticated and appraised by a professional. After that, you can sell it through coin dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces that specialize in rare coins.