An interesting hobby, coin collecting has the potential ability to take a simple find into a payment worth thousands of dollars. Most quarters, however, are all worth their face value, with rare coins worth shocking amounts at auctions, particularly ones that have been minted in error or are of some historical significance.
For example, take the Bicentennial Quarter, which is valued at nearly $201,000. Such astonishing values are rare and arise from unique circumstances in the area of minting errors, scarce materials, and unparalleled preservation. What makes these quarters and six other rare coins so valuable and collectors so tantalized will be discussed in this article.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter: An Unexpected Jewel
Commemorating the 200th anniversary of America, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was made to be circulated. A limited minting with 40% silver, mainly intended for collector sets, was finally produced, mostly made from a common copper-nickel mix.
Its high grading by a professional coin grading service as well as being in pristine condition are what have made the rare Bicentennial Quarter so valuable. Pristine coins can achieve remarkable astronomical amounts, just like in the case of the Bicentennial Quarter that had an astounding price tag of $201,000. That sale is a reiteration of the fact that even the most modern-seeming coin can shine like a real treasure under the right features.
Other High Value Quarters Worth Over $25,000
There are others, besides the Bicentennial Quarter, that have sold extremely well at auctions. Among them are:
1932-S Washington Quarter
With only 408,000 minted, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is, for this reason, something of a collector’s treasure. Being minted with the “S” mint mark indicates that this was minted in San Francisco, propagating rarity that pristine versions of this coin have sold in excess of $25,000.
1943 Copper Quarter
Quarters were minted in silver during WWII but a few copper ones were made by mistake, hence the highly coveted rarity. If you own a 1943 quarter that does not stick to a magnet, you possess one of these coveted mistakes.
1950-D/S Over Mintmark Quarter
Minting errors, such as the 1950-D/S Over Mintmark, where a Denver “D” was stamped over a San Francisco “S,” can soar the price of a coin. Well-preserved specimens can sell for over $25,000.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
A striking minting mistake left the impression, especially on the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” doubling it on the reverse side. High-quality examples can bring values in excess of $25,000.
1970-S Small Date Quarter.
This quarter has a slightly smaller date which makes it rarer than most. Collectors would pay a premium for well-preserved pieces, with some selling at well over $25,000.
1983-P Washington Quarter.
Although relatively modern, the 1983-P Washington Quarter is significant because of its scarcity in uncirculated condition. Pristine examples can fetch prices upwards of $25,000.
Determine Your Valuable Coins From Your Collection
If you believe you might have a valuable quarter, follow these steps:
- Inspect the Mint Mark: Coins with special marks like “D” or “S” can often be worth far more.
- Look for Errors: coins can be valuable because of double strikes, misalignments little or no features.
- Inspect Condition: coins that are mint or uncirculated are usually worth much more.
- Magnifying Glass: Inspect dates, lettering, and edges for distinguishing details.
- Professional Grading: Have your coin graded by recognized services such as PCGS or NGC.
Where To Sell Rare Coins
If you happen to find a great coin, you might as well use any of the following options for selling it:
- Auction Houses: These niche auctions can really open up a whole new world to maximize profits.
- Online Marketplaces: eBay and Heritage Auctions, with their worldwide audiences for collectors, complete a very accessible list.
- Coin Dealers: Rely on these accredited dealers for their accurate appraisals.
- Coin Shows: These events provide the opportunity for you to connect with some of the experienced collectors.
Conclusion: A Treasure Inside Your Pocket?
The nearly $201,000 Bicentennial Quarter and the other six valuable quarters throw into relief the hidden surprises that can lurk within pocket change. No matter if you have been collecting busts in earnest for many years or are just an inquisitive newbie, carefully reviewing quarters could lead to a quite exciting find. Who knows? Perhaps the next time you reach into your pockets, you might be pulling out a secret stash!