Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby where seemingly ordinary coins can transform into treasures worth millions.
In the world of rare coins, the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, has recently garnered significant attention.
While most of these quarters are valued at just 25 cents, a few rare examples are worth millions, with one in particular fetching nearly $55 million at auction.
Even more astonishingly, there are four other rare quarters valued at over $200,000, making them incredibly sought after by collectors.
In this blog, we’ll dive into why the Bicentennial Quarter has become so valuable, explore the specific features that set these coins apart, and provide you with insights into how to spot rare quarters in your own collection. Let’s uncover the hidden gems of the numismatic world!
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $55 Million?
The Bicentennial Quarter, produced in 1976, was minted to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence. The design features a drummer boy and the Liberty Bell, symbolizing American heritage and patriotism.
While these coins were produced in large numbers — over 1.6 billion — it is the few that contain minting errors that have attracted significant attention.
One of the most valuable Bicentennial Quarters was recently sold for nearly $55 million. The reason for this massive value lies in its Doubled Die Error, a phenomenon in which the design is struck twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect on certain features of the coin.
In this case, the doubling is particularly apparent in the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions. This type of error, though relatively rare, can make a coin dramatically more valuable, as it becomes a one-of-a-kind item for collectors.
The Bicentennial Doubled Die Quarter is one of the most famous examples of minting errors, and it has earned its place as one of the highest-priced quarters ever sold.
When it was auctioned, it fetched an extraordinary price of nearly $55 million, setting a new standard for the potential value of minting error coins.
4 More Rare Quarters Worth Over $200,000
While the Bicentennial Doubled Die Quarter is the star of the show, there are other quarters with exceptional rarity that have commanded high prices at auction.
These coins, whether due to low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance, have become prized possessions among collectors. Here are four additional quarters that are worth over $200,000:
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Estimated Value: $200,000+
- Key Features: The 1932-D Washington Quarter is an iconic coin in U.S. numismatics. With a low mintage of just 436,800 coins, this quarter is one of the rarest in the Washington Quarter series. It was the first year of issue for the Washington Quarter, and the D mintmark indicates it was minted in Denver. The low mintage and the historical significance of this coin make it highly desirable among collectors, with some examples in mint condition selling for $200,000 or more at auction.
2. 1942/1 Washington Quarter (Overdate Error)
- Estimated Value: $250,000+
- Key Features: The 1942/1 Washington Quarter is a rare overdate error, where the “1” from the previous year (1941) can still be seen beneath the “2” in the 1942 year. This mistake occurred because the 1941 die was reused to strike 1942 coins, creating a “1942/1” overdate. The error is subtle but noticeable, and collectors prize these coins due to their rarity. High-quality examples of the 1942/1 overdate error have sold for $250,000 or more.
3. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
- Estimated Value: $300,000+
- Key Features: The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most beautiful and sought-after coins in U.S. history. With a mintage of only 52,000, this coin is extremely rare. The design features Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch, and it was created by the famous sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil. Due to its low mintage and historical significance, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter has become a highly coveted coin, with some examples in excellent condition fetching prices above $300,000 at auction.
4. 1964 Proof Washington Quarter
- Estimated Value: $250,000+
- Key Features: The 1964 Proof Washington Quarter was part of a special proof set issued by the U.S. Mint. Proof coins are struck with greater care and precision than regular circulation coins, and they have a mirror-like finish. The 1964 Proof Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable proof coins in the U.S. minting series, with perfect or near-perfect specimens fetching over $250,000. Due to their low production numbers and superior quality, 1964 Proof Washington Quarters have become highly collectible.
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1976 | $55 million+ | Doubled Die error on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | $200,000+ | Low mintage, rare in high grades |
| 1942/1 Washington Quarter (Overdate) | 1942 | $250,000+ | Overdate error from 1941 overstruck by 1942 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $300,000+ | Iconic design, low mintage |
| 1964 Proof Washington Quarter | 1964 | $250,000+ | High-quality proof coin |
What makes a Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
The Bicentennial Quarter is worth a significant amount when it has a minting error like a Doubled Die, where the design is doubled, especially in key inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. These errors are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
What other quarters are valuable?
In addition to the Bicentennial Doubled Die Quarter, coins like the 1932-D Washington Quarter, 1942/1 Overdate Washington Quarter, and 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter are worth hundreds of thousands, if not millions, depending on their condition.
How do I know if I have a rare quarter?
Look for minting errors (such as Doubled Die or Overdate), check for low mintage years (like 1932 or 1942/1), and inspect the condition of the coin. Coins in excellent condition are more valuable.