Coin collecting is a thrilling hobby, and sometimes all it takes is a humble find in a pocket change to change one’s life forever. Take the case of the Bicentennial Quarter, for example. A unique edition U.S. quarter coined in 1976 to mark the country’s 200th anniversary, the majority of Bicentennial Quarters only have a face value. Some rare editions of the quarter have been appraised at close to $1 million, though! Let’s get into what makes this quarter so precious and examine three other scarce coins that are worth more than $100,000.
$1M Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was struck on a special double-date “1776–1976” and displays a colonial drummer on the back. Although billions were produced, some very rare silver versions are extremely valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
Few Bicentennial quarters were inadvertently struck on 90% silver planchets intended for proof coins. They were supposed to be in collector sets but became available in circulation, making them extremely valuable. A high-grade specimen of one of these silver Bicentennial quarters has been worth close to $1 million because of its rarity and historical value.
What to Look For
- Examine the edge: A silver quarter will lack a copper stripe.
- Weight: Silver quarters weigh a bit more than clad coins.
- Authentication: If you think you have one, have it graded by PCGS or NGC.
3 More Coins Worth Over $100K
If you don’t have the $1 million Bicentennial Quarter, don’t worry—there are other rare coins that could be just as valuable!
1932 Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter first appeared in 1932 in commemoration of George Washington’s 200th birthday. While most from 1932 are worth collecting, the 1932-D (Denver Mint) and 1932-S (San Francisco Mint) are the most scarce.
Why It’s Valuable
Just 436,800 quarters were produced at Denver in 1932, so the 1932-D Washington quarter is one of the series’ most scarce. Higher-grade specimens have sold for over $100,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Mint mark: Check for the “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) under the eagle on the back.
- Condition: Uncirculated or near-mint coins are worth the most.
1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is the rarest and most valuable U.S. quarter. It was produced in Carson City, Nevada—a small and short-lived mint famous for coining coins from nearby silver mines.
Why It’s Valuable
With only 8,340 minted, this quarter is incredibly scarce. Very few have graded high, so they sell for more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark: Look on the reverse side below the eagle.
- Authentication: Since it is such a rare coin, it is frequently forged, so expert grading is crucial.
1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is a number of the rarest and most precious U.S. Quarters. It became designed by means of Charles E. Barber and become made out of 1892 to 1916, with the 1901-S being the rarest of the series.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 72,664 San Francisco quarters have been produced in 1901. Because Barber quarters circulated profusely, coming across a nicely-preserved specimen could be very uncommon. High-grade specimens may be well worth greater than $one hundred,000.
What to Look For
- S mint mark: Under the eagle on the back.
- Condition: Even 1901-S quarters that are worn are worth something, but uncirculated ones are extremely rare.
How to Check If You Have One of These Rare Coins
If you think you might have a valuable coin, follow these steps:
- Examine the Date and Mint Mark: Some rare coins are only from specific years and locations.
- Check for Errors and Unique Features: Double dies, missing mint marks, and off-center strikes add value.
- Verify the Metal Composition: Some valuable coins are made from silver or copper instead of standard materials.
- Get a Professional Appraisal: Have your coin graded by experts like PCGS or NGC to determine its true value.
Final Thought
Rare coins are full of hidden gems, and you just never know when you might find a valuable one on your own collection or in your pocket change. Whether it’s the Bicentennial Quarter that’s worth close to $1 million or a rare coin of another kind that’s worth more than $100,000, looking out for these oddities could bring about a surprise payout.
FAQ’s
What does 1932-D Washington Quarter do the quarters valuable?
The lower coin of 436 800 makes it one of the most rare quarters.
Why is the 1870-CC Quarter so rarely?
Only 8,340 were extracted, and some survived in high grades.
How can I see if my Bicentennial Quarter is silver?
Check the edge if there is no copper strip, it can be silver.