The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, minted to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, is a favorite among collectors due to its unique design featuring a colonial drummer. While most Bicentennial quarters are worth only their face value, rare varieties have surfaced that are worth thousands.
One such Bicentennial quarter recently sold for nearly $300,000, proving that even a common-looking coin can hold incredible value under the right conditions. Let’s look into this rare quarter and four other valuable U.S. quarters worth over $10,000.
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Bicentennial
The Bicentennial quarter was produced in large quantities in 1975 and 1976. It features a dual date, “1776–1976,” and a special reverse design to commemorate America’s founding. Most were struck in copper-nickel clad metal, but rare silver versions exist.
Why it’s valuable
A rare silver Bicentennial quarter, mistakenly released into circulation instead of being reserved for collector sets, recently sold for nearly $300,000. Its value comes from its silver composition, rarity, and the fact that it was not supposed to be in circulation.
What to look for
- Edge: Regular Bicentennial quarters have a visible copper core, while silver quarters have a solid silver edge.
- Weight: Silver quarters weigh slightly more than copper-nickel ones.
- Condition: Coins in near-mint condition are the most valuable.
1932-D Washington
The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday. While the series became a regular part of U.S. currency, the 1932-D (Denver) quarter is one of the rarest in the series.
Why it’s valuable
With only 436,800 minted, the 1932-D is extremely scarce. Its status as the first-year issue of the Washington quarter series and its low mintage make it highly desirable. In top condition, it can fetch over $10,000 at auction.
What to look for
- Mint mark: The “D” mint mark is located on the reverse below the eagle.
- Condition: Even circulated examples are valuable, but uncirculated ones are worth the most.
1896-S Barber
The Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber and minted from 1892 to 1916, features several valuable issues, including the 1896-S from the San Francisco Mint.
Why it’s valuable
Only 188,039 Barber quarters were minted in San Francisco in 1896, and very few have survived in high condition. This scarcity makes the 1896-S Barber quarter highly collectible, with well-preserved examples selling for over $10,000.
What to look for
- Mint mark: The “S” is located below the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition: Worn examples still hold value, but those with minimal wear are especially desirable.
1950-D Washington (doubled die reverse)
The 1950-D Washington quarter is known for a doubled die error on the reverse. This error creates a noticeable “shadow” effect on the lettering.
Why it’s valuable
Error coins are always sought after, and the 1950-D doubled die reverse quarter is one of the most valuable in the Washington quarter series. High-grade examples can exceed $10,000 due to their rarity and collector demand.
What to look for
- Doubling: Look for a doubling effect on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
- Certification: A professional grading service can confirm authenticity and increase its value.
1804 Draped Bust
The Draped Bust quarter series, introduced in the late 18th century, includes some of the rarest U.S. quarters. The 1804 Draped Bust quarter is especially valuable due to its low mintage.
Why it’s valuable
Very few 1804 Draped Bust quarters were minted, and surviving examples are extremely rare. Even in well-worn condition, these quarters can sell for over $10,000, making them a prized find.
What to look for
- Design: Features Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
- Condition: Even heavily worn coins are worth significant money, while high-grade examples command premium prices.
If you think you might have one of these rare quarters, check for key details like mint marks, errors, and silver content. A small investment in professional grading could turn a common-looking coin into a fortune.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the edge. A silver quarter has a solid silver edge, while a regular one has a copper core stripe.
Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No, most are worth face value. Only rare silver or error coins hold significant worth.
How much is a 1932-D Washington quarter worth?
In high condition, it can be worth over $10,000 due to its low mintage and rarity.
What makes a 1950-D Washington quarter valuable?
The doubled die error on the reverse makes this quarter highly collectible and valuable.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
You can sell it through online auctions, coin dealers, or grading services like PCGS or NGC.
