When you think of valuable coins, you probably picture gold or silver bullion, or maybe even historical treasures like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. But did you know that a simple, everyday coin could be worth millions?
Take, for instance, the Bicentennial Quarter. While most people associate this 1976 quarter with a small, commemorative design celebrating the United States’ 200th anniversary, one specific error version of this coin recently sold for nearly $93 million USD!
Yes, you read that correctly. $93 million for a coin that was originally minted as part of a regular circulation series. While it might sound too good to be true, rare coins with errors or unique features can fetch extraordinary prices.
In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind the Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $93 million USD and introduce you to 8 more coins worth over $499,999 that could be hiding in your pocket, waiting to make you a small fortune.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $93 Million USD
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, is easily recognizable for its special reverse design: the Liberty Bell next to a drummer boy.
These coins were issued to replace the regular Washington Quarters during that year, and millions of them were made for general circulation.
Most of these quarters are worth only their face value — just 25 cents — but there’s one special variety that could make you a multi-millionaire.
The Bicentennial Quarter in question is an extremely rare Doubled Die Error coin. A Doubled Die error occurs when the coin is struck more than once, resulting in a doubling or distortion of the design.
For the Bicentennial Quarter, the error affects the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions, which appear doubled or blurry. This type of error is incredibly rare and can make the coin worth millions.
In fact, one particular Bicentennial Quarter with this error was recently sold at auction for a staggering $93 million USD! This price makes it one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins ever sold.
Its rarity and historical significance — as well as the unique error — have propelled it to the top of the numismatic world. Collectors are actively seeking these error coins, though they remain exceedingly difficult to find in circulation.
8 More Rare Coins Worth Over $499,999 That Could Be Lurking in Your Change
If you think finding a rare Bicentennial Quarter is a once-in-a-lifetime event, think again. Several other U.S. coins are worth $499,999 or more, and many of them could be hiding in your spare change or coin jar. Here’s a rundown of 8 more rare coins that could be worth a small fortune:
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
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- Estimated Value: $4.5 million+
- The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable error coins in U.S. history. Only five examples of this nickel are known to exist, making it one of the rarest coins in the world. One of these nickels sold for $4.5 million at auction.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $20 million+
- The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. Due to the economic crisis of the Great Depression, most of the coins minted that year were melted down, but a few survived. One of these gold coins was sold for over $20 million USD in 2002.
3. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Estimated Value: $1.8 million+
- The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a highly sought-after coin due to its low mintage and rarity. Fewer than 100,000 of these coins were produced, and today they can be worth over $1.8 million in top condition.
4. 1943 Copper Penny
- Estimated Value: $1.7 million+
- The 1943 Copper Penny is a famous error coin. Most pennies struck in 1943 were made from steel, but a few copper pennies were mistakenly struck, making them incredibly valuable. One example of this rare penny sold for $1.7 million USD.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
- Estimated Value: $3.8 million+
- The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar is one of the most valuable U.S. coins. Only 15 examples of this coin are known to exist, and it remains a symbol of American coinage’s history. A well-preserved 1804 Draped Bust Dollar can fetch upwards of $3.8 million.
6. 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $3 million+
- The 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is renowned for its intricate design and high relief, which made it difficult to strike. Only a limited number of these coins were produced, and they are worth several million dollars today.
7. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
- Estimated Value: $1.2 million+
- The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is a popular error coin where the design features significant doubling, particularly on the word “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” In excellent condition, these coins can sell for over $1.2 million USD.
8. 2007 $1 Million Coin
- Estimated Value: $3 million+
- The 2007 $1 Million Coin is the world’s largest gold coin, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. It weighs 100 kilograms (220 pounds) and is worth millions, although it is technically not a U.S. coin. Its size and precious metal content have made it an extraordinary collectible.
| Coin | Minted | Estimated Value | Key Identifying Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1976 | Up to $93 million | Doubled or blurry text on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million+ | Five known examples, never officially released |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | $20 million+ | Gold coin, most melted down during the Great Depression |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 | $1.8 million+ | Low mintage, very few examples remain |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million+ | Rare copper penny minted in error during WWII |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | $3.8 million+ | Only 15 known examples in existence |
| 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle | 1907 | $3 million+ | Intricate design, difficult to strike |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1969 | $1.2 million+ | Doubled text on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
How do I know if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
The most valuable Bicentennial Quarters are those with a Doubled Die Error. Check the inscriptions, particularly “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”, for any doubling or distortion. If you find such an error, you may have a very valuable coin.
Why are some coins worth so much money?
Coins are often worth millions because they are rare, historically significant, or have minting errors. Coins like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel or 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle are worth a lot due to their rarity and unique history.
What should I do if I find a rare coin?
If you find a coin that you believe may be valuable, it’s a good idea to have it professionally appraised by a coin dealer or numismatist. They can help you determine its authenticity and guide you through the process of selling it, if desired.