Coin collecting is an exciting hobby that lets people explore history while owning valuable pieces of it. Some rare coins, especially quarters, are worth much more than their face value. One such quarter, the Bicentennial Quarter, is worth an astonishing $90 million due to a minting error and its historical significance. In this article, we will dive into the story of the Bicentennial Quarter and explore five other quarters that are also worth over $30 million. Let’s take a closer look at these amazing coins and discover what makes them so valuable.
1. The $90 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976, celebrates the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence. However, one specific quarter from this series became incredibly valuable due to a unique minting error. A double strike, where the coin was struck twice by the minting press, created a rare overlap in the design. Additionally, this quarter is in uncirculated condition, adding to its rarity. These factors combined have boosted its value to a jaw-dropping $90 million.
2. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny (Worth Over $30 Million)
While not a quarter, the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny deserves mention due to its remarkable value. During World War II, pennies were made from steel coated in zinc to save copper for the war effort. However, a few copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943. These copper pennies are extremely rare and have sold for more than $30 million at auctions because of their historical context and limited availability.
3. 1932 Washington Silver Quarter
The first Washington Silver Quarter was minted in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. Some of these quarters were struck in 90% silver, making them highly valuable, especially those minted in Denver and San Francisco, marked by a small ‘D’ and ‘S’. A well-preserved 1932 Washington Silver Quarter can be valued at over $30 million, particularly if it features rare traits like a double die or minting error.
4. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the first quarters ever minted by the United States. With only around 6,000 of these quarters made, their rarity is unmatched. The design, featuring a small eagle, was used for only two years, adding to the coin’s uniqueness. A well-preserved example of this quarter can fetch over $30 million, thanks to its historical importance and extreme scarcity.
5. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is famous for an overdate error. The year 1823 was struck over an earlier 1822 quarter, creating an unusual and highly sought-after coin. Because of this error and its limited mintage, this quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable, often valued at over $30 million for specimens in excellent condition.
6. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is known for its beautiful design and limited mintage. Only a small number of these quarters were made before the design was changed in 1917, making the 1916 version especially rare. Its artistic appeal and scarcity contribute to its high value, with mint-condition coins worth more than $30 million.
Rare quarters like the Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $90 million represent more than just valuable coins; they are pieces of history. These coins reflect moments in time, from the founding of the United States to rare minting errors. The huge values of these quarters highlight their rarity, condition, and historical significance, making them treasured possessions for collectors.
1. What makes the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is valuable due to a minting error that caused a double strike, combined with its pristine condition and historical significance.
2. Why is the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny so rare?
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is rare because it was made from copper blanks by mistake, instead of the steel used during World War II.
3. How much is a 1932 Washington Silver Quarter worth?
A 1932 Washington Silver Quarter can be worth over $30 million, especially if it features rare mint marks or errors.
4. What makes the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter special?
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is special because it was one of the first U.S. quarters, and only around 6,000 were minted, making it extremely rare.
5. Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter valuable?
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is valuable because only a few were minted before the design was changed, and its beauty and rarity make it a prized collector’s item.
