Quarters are a common part of American currency, but some rare quarters can be worth far more than their 25-cent face value. Due to unique features, minting mistakes, or limited production runs, certain quarters have become highly valuable to collectors.
Some have even sold for over $200,000. Let’s explore four extraordinary quarters, including a famous Bicentennial quarter that fetched an amazing $1.2 million at auction.
1. The $1.2 Million Bicentennial Quarter
In 1976, the U.S. Mint released special Bicentennial quarters to celebrate the nation’s 200th anniversary. These coins featured a design of a Colonial drummer boy and a torch surrounded by 13 stars. While most of these quarters were made from copper-nickel, a few were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets, which were meant only for proof coins.
Why It’s Valuable: These silver Bicentennial quarters are rare due to the minting error and their historical significance, making them extremely valuable. One such quarter sold for $1.2 million, showing how collectors highly covet them.
Identification Tips:
- Weight: Silver quarters are slightly heavier than regular copper-nickel ones.
- Edge: A silver quarter will have a solid silver edge without a visible copper stripe.
- Mint Mark: Look for an “S” mint mark from the San Francisco Mint. Some error coins may not have this mark.
If you have a Bicentennial quarter, you might want to check it with a numismatic expert for verification.
2. The 1932-D Washington Quarter
Released in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday, the Washington quarter became a part of U.S. currency. The Denver Mint produced only 436,800 of these quarters, making the 1932-D variety one of the rarest.
Why It’s Valuable: Its low mintage makes this coin highly sought after, especially when found in great condition. Some 1932-D quarters have been sold for more than $200,000.
Identification Tips:
- Mint Mark: The “D” mint mark on the reverse side shows it was made at the Denver Mint.
- Condition: Coins that are in good condition, with minimal wear, are more valuable.
If you find a 1932-D quarter in excellent condition, it could be worth a lot of money.
3. The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Minted between 1838 and 1891, the Liberty Seated quarter includes a rare 1870-CC quarter from the Carson City Mint. With only 8,340 of these coins produced, they are extremely hard to find today.
Why It’s Valuable: This coin’s rarity and its history make it one of the most valuable U.S. coins, with some specimens worth over $200,000, even if they’re worn.
Identification Tips:
- Mint Mark: The “CC” mint mark shows it was made at the Carson City Mint.
- Authenticity: Since it’s so rare, there are counterfeits. It’s important to have it authenticated by an expert.
Owning an authentic 1870-CC quarter is like owning a piece of American history.
4. The 1901-S Barber Quarter
Minted between 1892 and 1916, the Barber quarter features several valuable variants. The 1901-S Barber quarter, made at the San Francisco Mint, is the most sought after due to its low mintage of only 72,664 coins.
Why It’s Valuable: Due to its rarity, especially in high-quality grades, the 1901-S Barber quarter can fetch more than $200,000.
Identification Tips:
- Mint Mark: Look for the “S” mint mark on the reverse side, indicating it was made at the San Francisco Mint.
- Condition: Well-preserved coins with clear details and little wear are the most valuable.
If you come across a 1901-S Barber quarter in great condition, it could be worth a significant amount.
These rare quarters show that even common currency can be worth much more due to unique features, minting errors, or low production numbers.
Whether it’s a Bicentennial quarter struck on silver, a limited 1932-D Washington quarter, a rare 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, or the valuable 1901-S Barber quarter, these coins are sought after by collectors and can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
If you own any of these quarters, it might be worth getting them appraised by a numismatic expert.
1. What makes the Bicentennial quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial quarter is valuable because a few were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets instead of regular copper-nickel. This rare minting error, combined with its historical significance, makes these coins worth a lot, with some selling for over $1 million.
2. How can I tell if my 1932-D Washington quarter is valuable?
To check if your 1932-D Washington quarter is valuable, look for the “D” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse side. Coins in great condition, with sharp details and minimal wear, are worth more.
3. Why is the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter so rare?
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is rare because only 8,340 were minted. Its limited production and historical significance make it highly valuable, with some selling for over $200,000, even in worn condition.
4. What should I look for when identifying a 1901-S Barber quarter?
To identify a 1901-S Barber quarter, check for the “S” mint mark on the reverse side, indicating it was minted in San Francisco. Coins in excellent condition with clear details are the most valuable.
5. Can I sell my rare quarters for a lot of money?
Yes, if you own rare quarters like the Bicentennial quarter with a silver error, the 1932-D Washington quarter, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, or the 1901-S Barber quarter, they could be worth a lot of money. It’s best to get them appraised by a numismatic expert to determine their value.
