The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is an iconic piece of American currency, minted to honor the United States’ 200th anniversary. While most of these coins are worth only their face value, a few rare versions have captured the attention of collectors, fetching astonishing prices. One silver Bicentennial quarter recently sold for an incredible $1.35 million. Let’s look into this unique coin and six other quarters worth over $250,000, each with its own compelling story.
Bicentennial
The Bicentennial quarter features a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dual date “1776–1976” on the obverse. While most were minted in copper-nickel clad, a rare version was struck on a 90% silver planchet intended for proof sets, and one recently sold for $1.35 million.
Why It’s Valuable
This silver quarter is exceptionally rare due to a minting error that released it into circulation rather than preserving it in collector sets. Its unique composition and historical significance have driven its value to record highs.
What to Look For
Silver Bicentennial quarters weigh more than their clad counterparts. Check the coin’s edge for a solid silver color instead of the copper stripe seen on standard coins.
1932-D
The Washington quarter series began in 1932, and the Denver-minted 1932-D is one of its rarest.
Why It’s Valuable
With a mintage of only 436,800, this coin is highly sought after, especially in mint condition, with values surpassing $250,000.
What to Look For
The reverse side reveals a “D” mint mark beneath the eagle. Even circulated examples can fetch a premium, but near-mint versions are exceptionally valuable.
1870-CC
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, minted at the Carson City Mint, is a favorite among collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 8,340 were minted, and many were lost or melted, making high-grade examples extremely rare and worth over $250,000.
What to Look For
The “CC” mint mark on the reverse side beneath the eagle confirms its Carson City origin. Be cautious of counterfeits and seek professional authentication.
1901-S
The 1901-S Barber quarter is considered the rarest of its series, minted in San Francisco.
Why It’s Valuable
With just 72,664 coins minted, fewer than 1,000 are believed to survive. Uncirculated examples often sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
The “S” mint mark beneath the eagle identifies this valuable coin. Even worn examples hold significant value due to their scarcity.
1823/2
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is famous for its overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable
This rare error, combined with the low number of surviving examples, makes the coin worth over $300,000 in good condition.
What to Look For
Examine the date closely for signs of doubling or remnants of the underlying “2.” A magnifying glass or professional grading can confirm the overdate.
1796
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter is the first quarter minted in U.S. history, with a mintage of only 6,146 coins.
Why It’s Valuable
Its historical significance as the first quarter, coupled with its low mintage, makes this coin highly desirable. High-grade examples often exceed $250,000 at auction.
What to Look For
The obverse features Lady Liberty, while the reverse shows a small eagle. Even in low grades, these coins hold immense value due to their rarity and historical importance.
1871-CC
Another Carson City Mint rarity, the 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter, stands out for its low mintage and high value.
Why It’s Valuable
With just 10,890 minted, it’s one of the rarest quarters from Carson City. Well-preserved examples can sell for more than $250,000, while circulated coins also command high prices.
What to Look For
The “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse identifies this coin. Carson City quarters are rare and always in demand among collectors.
If you’re a coin enthusiast, keep an eye out for these treasures. Rare quarters can be worth a fortune, whether due to minting errors, historical significance, or extremely low mintage.
FAQs
What makes the silver Bicentennial quarter valuable?
It was struck on a 90% silver planchet, making it rare and collectible.
How much is a 1932-D Washington quarter worth?
High-grade examples can sell for over $250,000.
Why is the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter rare?
It has a low mintage of 8,340 coins and high collector demand.
Where is the mint mark on a 1901-S Barber quarter?
The “S” mint mark is below the eagle on the reverse.
How to identify the 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter?
Look for the overdate error where a “3” is struck over a “2.”
