In the world of numismatics, U.S. quarters hold a special allure, with some achieving legendary status due to their rarity, design, and historical significance. Among these treasures is the Bicentennial Quarter, with certain rare specimens valued at an astounding $8.9 million. Here, we’ll cut into some of the most valuable quarters, their unique characteristics, and why collectors prize them so highly.
Table of Contents
- 1 Bicentennial
- 2 1932-S
- 3 1916 Standing Liberty
- 4 1796 Draped Bust
- 5 1823/2 Overdate
- 6 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck
- 7 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
- 8 FAQs
- 8.1 What makes the Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
- 8.2 How many 1932-S quarters were minted?
- 8.3 Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter special?
- 8.4 Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $8.5 Million – 5 Others Valued Over $30 Million USD
- 8.5 What is the value of a 1796 Draped Bust Quarter?
- 8.6 What is a broadstruck error on a coin?
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is iconic, featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary. While most are worth their face value, certain specimens with minting errors like double dies or striking flaws have elevated this quarter to mythical status. In pristine condition with these rare attributes, some have reached values as high as $8.9 million, making them the pinnacle of quarter collecting.
1932-S
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a cornerstone of American numismatics. Minted in San Francisco during the first year of Washington quarter production, only 408,000 were produced, making it one of the scarcest regular-issue quarters. Well-preserved examples can command over $88,888, especially among collectors looking for key pieces to complete their collections.
1916 Standing Liberty
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is celebrated for its artistic beauty and rarity. Only 52,000 of these coins were minted, and their striking design of Lady Liberty standing with a shield makes them highly sought after. Exceptional specimens often exceed $88,888 in value, combining aesthetic appeal with historical importance to become a favorite among serious collectors.
1796 Draped Bust
As one of the first quarters ever minted in the United States, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a piece of history. Its production was limited, and surviving examples are exceedingly rare. Coins in good condition can fetch six-figure sums, reflecting both their age and their role as a symbol of America’s early numismatic efforts.
1823/2 Overdate
The 1823/2 Overdate Quarter is a fascinating example of minting errors, where the date “1823” was stamped over a die marked “1822.” This unique feature adds both rarity and intrigue to the coin, making it a favorite among collectors. Prime specimens often exceed $88,888, representing a combination of historical significance and production quirks.
1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck
Modern quarters can be valuable too, as evidenced by the 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter. This error coin was struck outside its retaining collar, resulting in a coin with an expanded size. Despite its relative youth, well-preserved examples have fetched more than $88,888, proving that valuable coins aren’t always from centuries past.
1943 Copper Wheat Penny
Although not a quarter, the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny deserves recognition for its extraordinary value. Produced accidentally during World War II when pennies were supposed to be made of steel, a few copper versions were struck. In cases where minting errors caused the penny to resemble a quarter in size, values have surpassed $100,000.
From centuries-old quarters to modern minting errors, these coins represent the intersection of history, art, and craftsmanship. For collectors, each one is a reminder that even small change can carry a wealth of stories and value.
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
Rare minting errors like double dies increase its value.
How many 1932-S quarters were minted?
Only 408,000 were produced in San Francisco.
Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter special?
Its low mintage of 52,000 and artistic design make it rare.
What is the value of a 1796 Draped Bust Quarter?
Good-condition coins can fetch six-figure sums.
What is a broadstruck error on a coin?
It occurs when a coin is struck outside its retaining collar.