The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is one of the most recognizable coins in U.S. history, created to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary. Its distinctive design featuring a colonial drummer and the dual date “1776–1976” has made it a collector’s favorite. While most Bicentennial quarters hold little value beyond their face worth, a few rare variants have soared to astronomical values, with one recently selling for $1.35 million.
Let’s uncover the story behind this extraordinary Bicentennial quarter and look into six more quarters valued at over $250,000, each with its own fascinating tale.
Bicentennial
The rare $1.35 million Bicentennial quarter was struck on a 90% silver planchet, intended exclusively for collector proof sets. However, due to a minting error, a small number were accidentally released into circulation. This coin’s unique composition and historical significance make it one of the most prized coins in U.S. numismatics.
What to Look For
- Edge: A silver Bicentennial quarter will have a solid silver edge, while copper-nickel clad versions show a copper stripe.
- Weight: Silver quarters are slightly heavier than clad coins.
- Certification from professional grading services such as PCGS or NGC can confirm authenticity and boost value.
1932-D Washington
The 1932-D Washington quarter was minted to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. With only 436,800 coins minted at the Denver Mint, it is one of the scarcest quarters in the Washington series. High-grade examples often sell for over $250,000, especially in uncirculated condition.
What to Look For
- Spot the “D” mint mark on the reverse, beneath the eagle.
- Even circulated examples are valuable, but uncirculated quarters fetch premium prices.
1870-CC Liberty Seated
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is one of the rarest coins minted in Carson City, Nevada, with only 8,340 coins produced. Few survived, making well-preserved examples incredibly valuable. High-grade 1870-CC quarters have sold for over $250,000.
What to Look For
- Identify the “CC” mint mark on the reverse beneath the eagle.
- Counterfeits are common, so authentication by a grading service is essential.
1901-S Barber
The 1901-S Barber quarter, minted in San Francisco, had a low mintage of only 72,664 coins, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in the Barber series. Pristine examples are exceedingly rare and can fetch over $250,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- The “S” mint mark is located on the reverse beneath the eagle.
- Even circulated examples are valuable, but high-grade coins are highly coveted by collectors.
1823/2 Capped Bust
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter features an overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2.” This error is incredibly rare, with only a few examples known to exist. High-grade coins have been auctioned for more than $300,000.
What to Look For
- Examine the date for signs of the overdate error. The “3” will show remnants of the underlying “2.”
- Authentication can confirm the rarity and value of this coin.
1796 Draped Bust
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter is the first quarter ever minted by the United States. With an extremely low mintage of 6,146 coins, this coin is not only rare but also historically significant. High-grade specimens regularly sell for over $250,000, with even lower-grade examples commanding significant premiums.
What to Look For
- The obverse features Lady Liberty with flowing hair, while the reverse displays an eagle.
- Coins in any condition are valuable due to their age and significance.
1871-CC Liberty Seated
The 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter is another Carson City Mint rarity, with a mintage of just 10,890 coins. This coin is prized for its scarcity and connection to the Nevada Mint. Well-preserved examples have been known to exceed $250,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Look for the “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Coins from the Carson City Mint are popular among collectors, adding to their value.
These rare quarters demonstrate the incredible stories behind U.S. coinage. From minting errors to limited production, each of these coins offers a glimpse into history and the artistry of American currency. So, if you come across an old quarter, take a closer look—you might just observe a treasure worth hundreds of thousands of dollars!
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial quarter worth $1.35 million?
Its 90% silver composition and accidental release into circulation.
How can I identify a 1932-D Washington quarter?
Check for the ‘D’ mint mark on the reverse beneath the eagle.
Why is the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter rare?
It had a low mintage of only 8,340 coins.
What is the overdate error on the 1823/2 quarter?
The ‘3’ in the date was struck over a ‘2,’ creating a rare error.
How can I confirm a rare quarter’s authenticity?
Use professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
