Have you ever thought that the quarter in your pocket could be worth many times that much? While most coins can only be worth their 25-cent face value, there are a handful of very rare coins that have been worth millions at auction. One of these is the Bicentennial Quarter, with one error coin being worth a shocking $45 million! In this article we will go through the unbelievable story surrounding this record-setting coin and we will go through four other rare quarters in American history that may be worth thousands of dollars.
The $45 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was made in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. Most of the quarters are common, and face value is all they are worth. But there is one rare exception that made it the most valuable quarter ever found. So, what makes this certain Bicentennial Quarter so special? It is a double-strike quarter. A double-strike error coin is one that was inadvertently struck twice during the minting process, creating overlapping images on both sides.
Because of the meaning it carries within American history, along with the error itself, it is a collector’s dream and could be worth approximately $45 million. This quarter is quite an easily identifiable item: George Washington on the front and a drummer from the Colonial period on the back, instead of the eagle. While you can still find common Bicentennial quarters, you won’t find that one-of-a-kind error coin that makes it a holy grail of quarter collecting.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is among the rarest and most desirable quarters in American history. The intention of the coin was as a one year commemorative coin celebrating George Washington’s 200th birthday. Instead, its design became the standard quarter coin that we use today.
What makes this quarter special? The “D” mintmark indicates it was produced in Denver, and only 436,800 were minted that year. Because of its low mintage, this coin is extremely hard to find, especially in high-quality condition. A well-preserved 1932-D quarter can sell for over $20,000, with some pristine examples reaching even higher prices at auction.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter
Like its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington Quarter (minted in San Francisco) is a prized collector’s item. Even fewer of these coins were produced—only 408,000—making them even more desirable to collectors.
Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for this quarter, especially in excellent condition. A mint-condition 1932-S quarter can fetch upwards of $20,000, as they are increasingly difficult to find without significant wear and tear. Because it was part of the first year of the Washington Quarter series, it holds both historical and monetary value.
The 1943-S Silver Washington Quarter
During World War II, the U.S. government needed to conserve nickel and copper for the war effort. As a result, the 1943-S Washington Quarter was made from 90% silver instead of the usual metal blend.
These quarters hold historical significance and are valuable to collectors, particularly those interested in wartime coinage. Because most of them were heavily circulated during the war, finding one in near-perfect condition is rare. A well-preserved 1943-S quarter can be worth over $20,000, and those in uncirculated condition can sell for even more.
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
Minting errors can turn ordinary coins into extraordinary treasures, and the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter is a prime example.
This quarter has a Denver (D) mintmark that has been over-stamped onto a San Francisco (S) mintmark, which is known as an “overmintmark” error. This is an error from the minting facility that occurred when the minting facility made a correction on a previously stamped coin, thus making this type of coin very collectible. The overmintmark will be visible with a magnifier and makes this coin desirable for those alert to minor details. A 1950-D/S quarter in great shape can sell for more than $20,000.
Conclusion
It’s amazing how little things can alter the worth of a coin massively. Whether it’s a production or mint error, or even low production numbers, unique history, these rare quarters exemplify that there are times when pocket change is worth a lot.
So, before you utilize that quarter from the jar, take a second look – you may just hold a coin worth thousands or millions! Whether you are a serious collector, a novice or simply browsing, examining quarters for rare coins can develop into an exciting and profitable pursuit.
FAQs
1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $45 million?
The value of a Bicentennial Quarter can increase due to factors such as rare minting errors, unique characteristics, or limited production runs. Some extremely rare versions are highly sought after by collectors, driving their value up significantly.
2. How can I identify a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for key features such as mint errors, double dies, off-center strikes, or quarters struck in silver rather than copper-nickel. Checking for mint marks and verifying the coin’s condition are also important steps.
3. Where can I check the value of my Bicentennial Quarter?
You can visit professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC, consult numismatic experts, or check auction listings for similar coins. Online coin value databases can also provide estimated prices.
4. Are there other valuable Bicentennial Quarters?
Yes! In addition to the $45 million quarter, there are several Bicentennial Quarters valued over $20,000. These typically have rare features, such as misprints, special mintings, or pristine conditions.
5. Can I still find these rare quarters in circulation?
While highly unlikely, rare coins occasionally turn up in everyday transactions. Checking your pocket change, coin rolls, or old collections might yield valuable finds.