While most U.S. quarters are worth just 25 cents, a select few have become prized treasures, fetching hundreds of thousands—or even millions—at auctions. These rare quarters are valuable for a variety of reasons, including minting errors, unique design features, and historical significance.
Among the most coveted of these are the 1976 Bicentennial Quarters, as well as several pre-1965 quarters that feature rare mistakes or characteristics that set them apart from the usual run-of-the-mill coins.
In this blog, we’ll explore five of the most valuable quarters in existence—each worth over $440,000—and explain what makes these coins so extraordinary.
Whether you are a coin collector, a numismatist, or just an interested observer, these rare quarters are sure to catch your attention.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Error)
Value: $50 Million USD (or more)
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Missing mint mark
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Why It’s Valuable: Most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters minted in Philadelphia lack a mint mark, but a small batch was accidentally struck with no mint mark, which is highly unusual since Philadelphia coins are supposed to bear a “P” mint mark.
- This error has made these particular coins incredibly rare and valuable. Some of these quarters have been sold for upwards of $50 million due to their rarity, with some examples being graded as high as MS-67.
- Condition Matters: The condition of the coin is essential to its value. Coins graded MS-67 or higher are the most sought after by collectors.
What to Look For:
- No mint mark on the reverse side.
- Pristine condition: The higher the grade, the higher the price.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter (Low Mintage)
Value: $440,000 to $550,000 USD
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1932
- Mint Location: Denver (D mint mark)
- Why It’s Valuable: The 1932-D Washington Quarter is extremely rare because the Denver Mint produced only a limited number of these quarters, making them highly collectible. The low mintage of only 436,800 coins created a high demand among collectors, driving the price up significantly. In mint condition, this coin can easily fetch between $440,000 and $550,000, depending on its grade.
- Condition Matters: The best examples are those with a grade of MS-65 or higher. Coins in good condition or with minimal wear can command prices near the top of the range.
What to Look For:
- “D” mint mark under “Liberty” on the obverse.
- Clean, well-preserved surfaces and minimal wear.
3. 1950-D Washington Quarter (D Over S Mint Mark Error)
Value: $450,000 to $700,000 USD
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1950
- Mint Location: Denver (D mint mark)
- Error Type: D over S mint mark error
- Why It’s Valuable: The 1950-D Washington Quarter is known for a minting error where the Denver Mint overstruck the “S” mint mark on coins that should have had a “D” mint mark. As a result, the coin shows both D and S mint marks on its reverse, which makes it an error coin that is sought after by collectors. The D over S variety is a key rarity in the world of Washington quarters, and coins in high grades can sell for anywhere between $450,000 and $700,000.
- Condition Matters: Coins graded MS-64 or higher tend to fetch the highest prices.
What to Look For:
- Both the “D” and “S” mint marks visible under “E Pluribus Unum” on the reverse.
- A distinct doubling effect around the mint marks.
4. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel (Rare Error Coin)
Value: $440,000 to $1 Million USD
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1937
- Error Type: Three-Legged Buffalo
- Why It’s Valuable: While this is not technically a quarter, the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is often included in discussions about rare U.S. coin errors because of its unusual and highly sought-after nature. The three-legged buffalo occurred when a die gouge caused one of the buffalo’s legs to disappear during the striking process. Because of this error, these nickels are extremely rare, and examples in good condition can fetch $440,000 to $1 million.
- Condition Matters: Coins graded MS-65 or higher can bring in the highest value.
What to Look For:
- Missing front leg on the buffalo depicted on the reverse.
- A gouge mark visible where the leg would have been.
5. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Quarter
Value: $500,000 to $650,000 USD
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1964
- Error Type: Special Mint Set (SMS)
- Why It’s Valuable: The 1964 SMS quarters were part of a Special Mint Set (SMS) produced by the U.S. Mint, but only a limited number of these sets were created for collectors, and some coins were struck with an unusual method that gives them a higher-quality finish than the typical circulation coins. The SMS coins are often mistakenly thought to be proofs due to their appearance, but their unique minting process and limited production make them incredibly valuable. These quarters are worth between $500,000 and $650,000 depending on their condition.
- Condition Matters: Coins with the best finish and highest grade are worth the most.
What to Look For:
- A proof-like finish with a strong reflective sheen and clean surfaces.
- An SMS coin will usually be packaged in an original SMS set for higher authenticity.
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Error Type | Value Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Error) | 1976 | Missing mint mark | $50 million (or more) | No mint mark on the reverse side |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter (Low Mintage) | 1932 | Low mintage | $440,000 to $550,000 | “D” mint mark, limited mintage |
| 1950-D Washington Quarter (D Over S Error) | 1950 | D over S mint mark error | $450,000 to $700,000 | “D” and “S” mint marks visible on reverse |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | Three-Legged Buffalo error | $440,000 to $1 million | Missing front leg of the buffalo |
| 1964 SMS Quarter | 1964 | Special Mint Set | $500,000 to $650,000 | Proof-like finish, SMS coin |
What makes a quarter valuable?
A quarter can be valuable due to minting errors, low mintage numbers, or special finishes. Errors such as a missing mint mark, double dies, or clipped planchets are particularly desirable. Additionally, coins from limited mintage years or special sets like the Special Mint Set (SMS) can also command high prices.
How can I tell if my quarter is rare?
Look for signs of minting errors or unique characteristics. For example, a missing mint mark, double mint marks, rotated dies, or proof-like finishes can signal a valuable quarter. It’s always best to have your coin professionally graded by services such as PCGS or NGC for accurate valuation.
How do I sell my rare quarters?
You can sell rare quarters through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces. It’s important to have your coin certified and graded by a reputable organization like PCGS to ensure authenticity and help secure the best price.