The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and even seemingly ordinary quarters can hold extraordinary value. Some of these coins, including a rare Bicentennial quarter, have sold for staggering amounts, with values ranging from $11,000 to nearly $420,000. Here’s a closer look at seven quarters that have become collector favorites and the reasons behind their desirability.
Table of Contents
Rare Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, minted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, stands out for its colonial drummer design and dual date “1776–1976.”
Why It’s Valuable:
A few Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly struck on 40% silver planchets, intended only for collector proof sets. These rare silver versions occasionally entered circulation.
In pristine condition, one such silver quarter sold for nearly $420,000 at auction due to its rarity and exceptional quality.
What to Look For:
- Examine the coin’s edge for a solid silver color (no copper stripe).
- Silver quarters are slightly heavier than standard coins.
- Professional grading can confirm authenticity.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter was introduced to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday and remains one of the rarest in the Washington series.
Why It’s Valuable:
Only 436,800 were minted in Denver, making it highly sought after. In high-grade condition, these quarters have fetched over $11,000 at auctions.
What to Look For:
- Check for the “D” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse.
- Even circulated examples have value, but mint-condition quarters are most desirable.
1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter, produced at the Carson City Mint, is a significant piece of U.S. history.
Why It’s Valuable:
With a mintage of only 8,340, this quarter is exceptionally rare. Well-preserved examples have sold for over $11,000, with higher grades commanding even more.
What to Look For:
- Look for the “CC” mint mark under the eagle on the reverse.
- Authentication by a grading service is essential due to its high value.
1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, is a standout in the series minted from 1892 to 1916.
Why It’s Valuable:
Only 72,664 were minted in San Francisco, making this one of the rarest Barber quarters. High-grade examples sell for well over $11,000.
What to Look For:
- The “S” mint mark is located under the eagle on the reverse.
- Even worn examples can be valuable, but uncirculated coins are especially prized.
1955 Washington Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 Washington Quarter is notable for a minting error that caused parts of the design to appear doubled.
Why It’s Valuable:
The “doubled die” error is rare, making these coins highly collectible. Top-condition examples sell for more than $11,000.
What to Look For:
- Inspect the obverse for doubling in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- The doubling is visible to the naked eye, but magnification helps confirm it.
1943 Washington Quarter with Overpolished Die Error
The 1943 Washington Quarter has an error caused by overpolishing the die, resulting in faint or missing design elements.
Why It’s Valuable:
This error is uncommon, and high-grade coins with this defect are worth over $11,000. The unique appearance of the error makes it attractive to collectors.
What to Look For:
- Check the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” for faint or missing details.
- A weak design suggests an overpolished die.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter features an overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable:
The rarity of this error, combined with the coin’s age, makes it highly sought after. High-grade examples exceed $11,000.
What to Look For:
- Examine the date for traces of a “2” beneath the “3.”
- A magnifying glass can help identify this subtle error.
| Coin | Year | Unique Feature | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver) | 1976 | Struck on silver planchet | $420,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage in Denver | $11,000+ |
| 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter | 1870 | Carson City mintage | $11,000+ |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | 1901 | Low San Francisco mintage | $11,000+ |
| 1955 Washington Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1955 | Doubled die obverse error | $11,000+ |
| 1943 Washington Quarter (Error) | 1943 | Overpolished die effect | $11,000+ |
| 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter | 1823 | Overdate error | $11,000+ |
Significant
From minting errors to unique historical features, these quarters showcase the excitement of coin collecting. Whether you’re examining pocket change or investigating your coin collection, keep an eye out for these valuable pieces—they could hold a fortune.
FAQs
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
A rare silver version intended for collector sets.
How can I identify a 1932-D Washington Quarter?
Look for the ‘D’ mint mark below the eagle.
What is unique about the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter?
An overdate error where ‘3’ was struck over ‘2’.
What is the 1955 Washington Quarter error?
A doubled die error creating a doubled design.
Why are Carson City quarters valuable?
Limited mintage and historical significance.
