The world of rare and valuable coins is full of fascinating stories and incredible prices. One coin that recently made headlines is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, which sold for a jaw-dropping $73 million USD.
This sale captured the attention of collectors and investors alike, proving that even small coins can hold monumental value. However, the Bicentennial Quarter is just one of several coins that have fetched record-breaking prices.
In this article, we’ll look into the history and value of the Bicentennial Quarter and uncover four other rare coins worth over $999,999. From minting errors to limited production runs, these coins highlight the astonishing potential of numismatics.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Coin | Year Minted | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $73 million | Struck on half-dollar planchets by error |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Over $3 million | Only five ever minted; unauthorized production |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Over $1 million | Accidentally struck in copper during WWII |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | Over $7 million | Rare survivors of a government gold recall |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | Over $10 million | Believed to be the first U.S. dollar coin |
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Its unique design features a colonial drummer on the reverse side, along with the dual dates “1776–1976.” While most Bicentennial Quarters are common and hold only sentimental value, a rare batch of these coins stands out due to a minting error.
What Makes It So Valuable?
Some Bicentennial Quarters were accidentally struck on half-dollar planchets, making them slightly larger than standard quarters. This rare error has turned them into sought-after collector’s items.
One such specimen recently made history by selling for $73 million, making it one of the most valuable coins ever sold. The rarity of this mistake and the historical significance of the Bicentennial celebration have contributed to its astonishing value.
Four Other Rare Coins Worth Over $999,999
While the Bicentennial Quarter is extraordinary, several other coins have fetched equally impressive prices. Here are four more coins that have sold for over $999,999 at auctions.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only five known specimens. Its creation was unauthorized, making it a numismatic anomaly. These nickels have become legendary among collectors due to their mystery and extreme rarity.
One of these nickels sold for over $3 million, making it one of the most valuable coins ever produced.
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for penny production to conserve materials for the war effort. However, a small number of 1943 Copper Pennies were mistakenly struck in copper instead of steel.
This rare error has made these pennies one of the most sought-after coins in the world. One sold for over $1 million, making it one of the most valuable U.S. pennies ever.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle is one of the most intriguing coins in U.S. history. Although over 400,000 of these coins were minted, most were melted down following a government order during the Great Depression.
Only a handful of these coins remain in private collections. One example sold for over $7 million, and even less pristine specimens consistently fetch over $1 million.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds the distinction of being the first dollar coin ever issued by the United States. This coin’s historical significance and extreme rarity make it highly desirable among collectors.
In 2013, one of these coins set a record by selling for $10 million, making it one of the most valuable U.S. coins in history.
Rare coins like the Bicentennial Quarter and these other historic treasures show that even the smallest pieces of metal can hold immense value. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing the history and rarity of these coins could lead you to a fortune.
FAQs
Why is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
Some were mistakenly struck on half-dollar planchets, making them rare collector’s items.
How do I know if I have a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Check for size differences; coins struck on half-dollar planchets are larger than normal quarters.
What is the rarest U.S. coin ever sold?
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar sold for $10 million, making it one of the rarest.
How can I sell a rare coin?
You can sell rare coins through auction houses, certified coin dealers, or online marketplaces.
Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC can verify the authenticity and value of your coin.
