When most people think of quarters, they probably imagine the usual 25-cent coin that passes through their hands countless times throughout their life. However, some quarters — especially rare ones — can be worth far more than their face value.
In fact, some coins, like the Bicentennial Quarter, can fetch jaw-dropping prices. A rare Bicentennial Quarter was recently sold for nearly $65,000, and there are 7 more quarters worth over $7,000 that could be hiding in your pocket change or coin jar.
From error coins to low-mintage issues, the world of rare quarters is both exciting and lucrative.
In this blog, we’ll explore why the Bicentennial Quarter can be worth $65,000, introduce you to 7 more quarters worth over $7,000, and give you tips on how to spot these valuable coins.
Why Is This Bicentennial Quarter Worth $65K?
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary. The reverse design features the Liberty Bell and a drummer boy — a symbol of America’s revolutionary spirit.
Millions of these coins were made, and they circulated as regular quarters, making them not particularly rare at first glance. However, the value of certain Bicentennial Quarters can skyrocket if they have unique characteristics or minting errors.
The rare Bicentennial Quarter worth $65,000 is a special Doubled Die Error coin. A Doubled Die Error happens when the die used to strike the coin is misaligned, leading to a doubled or blurred design on the coin’s surface.
In this case, the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions were struck in such a way that they appear doubled, creating a unique and highly valuable error.
This error is extremely rare, and only a few examples of the Doubled Die Bicentennial Quarter exist.
Collectors are always on the lookout for these error coins, and one such quarter recently sold for $65,000 in a coin auction. It’s a reminder that even coins that seem relatively common can hide immense value if they have a rare flaw.
7 More Quarters Worth Over $7,000
While the Bicentennial Quarter with a doubled die error may be the crown jewel, there are several other quarters that are worth much more than their face value. Here are 7 more quarters that could be worth over $7,000 if you happen to find one:
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Estimated Value: $7,000+
- The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most coveted quarters among collectors due to its low mintage. Only about 436,800 of these coins were produced, making it one of the rarest quarters from the early Washington Quarter series. In excellent condition, this quarter can sell for upwards of $7,000, with top-grade examples often commanding much more.
2. 1942/1 Washington Quarter (Overdate Error)
- Estimated Value: $8,000+
- The 1942/1 Washington Quarter is a rare overdate error, which occurs when a die intended for one year is used to mint coins for a different year. In this case, the “1” from the 1941 design was overstruck by the “2” of the 1942 design, creating a noticeable overdate. This rare error can be worth over $8,000, depending on its condition.
3. 1937-S Three-Legged Buffalo Quarter (Error)
- Estimated Value: $7,500+
- The 1937-S Three-Legged Buffalo Quarter is actually a misstruck coin, as the Buffalo Nickel design was mistakenly struck on some quarters. This error resulted in a quarter featuring a buffalo with only three legs, making it an extremely rare and valuable find. While not technically a quarter by design, it is often included in rare quarter lists due to its history and high value. In good condition, this coin can fetch over $7,500.
4. 1964 Proof Washington Quarter
- Estimated Value: $7,500+
- The 1964 Proof Washington Quarter is part of a special series minted specifically for collectors. Although it was produced in larger quantities than other rare quarters, it has a unique and highly polished finish. Proof coins from the 1960s in mint or proof condition can sell for over $7,500, with some examples fetching much higher prices based on their quality and demand.
5. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter
- Estimated Value: $7,500+
- The 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter was struck with high precision for proof sets, but only a limited number were produced. These coins are often highly sought after for their excellent condition, mirrored finish, and overall quality. Depending on the coin’s grade, the 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter can be worth well over $7,500.
6. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
- Estimated Value: $9,000+
- The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is an iconic coin in U.S. numismatic history, with its stunning design of Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch. Only about 52,000 of these quarters were minted, making it one of the rarest quarters in circulation. A 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter in good condition can easily command $9,000 or more, and some top-grade specimens have sold for well over $100,000.
7. 1935 Washington Quarter (Proof Version)
- Estimated Value: $8,500+
- The 1935 Washington Quarter, part of the Proof Series, was minted specifically for collectors and has a smooth, mirror-like finish. Due to its relatively low mintage and unique aesthetic, it can fetch over $8,500 at auction, especially in top condition.
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1976 | $65,000+ | Doubled die error on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | $7,000+ | Low mintage, rare in high grades |
| 1942/1 Washington Quarter (Overdate) | 1942 | $8,000+ | Overdate error from 1941 overstruck by 1942 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $9,000+ | Iconic design, low mintage |
| 1935 Washington Quarter (Proof) | 1935 | $8,500+ | Part of the Proof Series, rare and polished finish |
How do I know if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is generally worth its face value unless it has a minting error. Look for a Doubled Die Error on the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” as these can increase its value significantly. Coins in excellent condition or with rare errors can be worth thousands.
What other mint errors make a quarter valuable?
Common mint errors that can make a quarter valuable include overdates, double strikes, die cracks, and off-center strikes. These errors occur when there’s a malfunction during the minting process, and they can make a coin much rarer and more valuable.
What is the best way to store my rare quarters?
To protect your rare quarters, store them in protective coin holders or slabs. This helps preserve their condition and ensures that they remain in top shape for future appraisals or sales.