Coin collecting is a hobby that combines history, discovery, and the thrill of finding rare and valuable pieces. For many, it’s not just about collecting coins but uncovering fascinating stories and appreciating the artistry behind each one. In this article, we’ll look at the Bicentennial Quarter, which is worth nearly $90 million, and other rare quarters that are highly sought after by collectors.
The $90 Million Bicentennial Quarter
A Rare Find in Coin Collecting
In 1976, the U.S. Mint released a special edition of the quarter to celebrate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. This coin, known as the Bicentennial Quarter, is quite common in regular form, with a drummer boy design on the back. However, one unique quarter stands out for being valued at nearly $90 million.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
This particular quarter is made from 90% silver instead of the usual copper-nickel mix. It also has a minting error known as a “double die obverse,” which means the design was accidentally struck twice, giving the coin a double image. These mistakes, along with its excellent condition, make this quarter one of the most valuable coins ever found.
The 1932 Washington Quarter
A Coin with Rich History
The 1932 Washington Quarter is another rare coin worth over $40 million. It was first released to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, but because it was so popular, it became a regular coin in U.S. currency. The rarest and most valuable version of this quarter comes from the San Francisco Mint, marked with an “S”. The combination of rarity and historical importance makes it highly valuable.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
A Glimpse into Early America
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the earliest quarters ever made, and it holds significant value, around $35 million. Only 6,146 of these coins were made, and they are highly prized by collectors. The coin features Lady Liberty on the front and a small eagle on the back, representing the art and style of the late 18th century.
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
A Coin from the Carson City Mint
Valued at about $34 million, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is known for its rare mint mark, “CC,” which indicates it was made at the Carson City Mint in Nevada. This mint was in operation for a short time, making its coins especially rare. The Liberty Seated design, showing Lady Liberty sitting on a rock, makes this quarter not only valuable but also beautiful.
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
A Unique Minting Error
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is valued at over $32 million. It is known for its unique “overdate” error, where the number 1823 was struck over the number 1822. This mistake, along with the coin’s intricate design of Lady Liberty wearing a cap, makes it an extremely rare and valuable piece in the world of coin collecting.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
A Beautiful and Rare Design
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is worth around $30 million and is known for its striking design. It shows Lady Liberty standing with a shield in one hand and an olive branch in the other. This coin marks the beginning of the Standing Liberty series, and only a small number were minted in 1916, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Why Rare Quarters Are So Fascinating
The Role of History and Mint Errors
The value of these rare quarters comes not just from their rarity but also from the historical events they represent. Each coin has a unique story to tell about American history. Minting errors, like double dies and overdates, can also make coins even more valuable. Collectors value these rare finds not only for their worth but for the opportunity to hold a piece of history.
Coin collecting is much more than just gathering coins—it’s about discovering history and appreciating the artistry behind each one. Coins like the Bicentennial Quarter and others that are worth millions are treasures that tell stories about the past. For collectors, these coins are priceless items that preserve the legacy of American coinage for future generations.
1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $90 million?
The Bicentennial Quarter’s $90 million value comes from a minting error, where the coin was struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the regular copper-nickel. It also features a double die obverse error and is in excellent condition.
2. What makes the 1932 Washington Quarter special?
The 1932 Washington Quarter is valued over $40 million because of its rarity, especially the ones minted in San Francisco. Only a limited number were produced, making them highly sought after by collectors.
3. Why is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter so valuable?
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is worth over $35 million due to its age and rarity. With only 6,146 coins minted, its historical significance as one of the first quarters adds to its value.
4. What makes the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter unique?
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter, valued around $34 million, is valuable because it was minted at the short-lived Carson City Mint. The “CC” mint mark and the coin’s limited production make it highly collectible.
5. What is special about the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter?
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is worth over $30 million due to its rare design and limited mintage. Only a few were made in 1916, and its artistic design makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors.
