The Bicentennial quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, is a coin that many Americans recognize. While most of these quarters are worth only face value, a few rare versions have skyrocketed in value due to unique characteristics or minting errors.
Recently, a rare Bicentennial quarter made headlines by selling for nearly $1.35 million. Let’s look into what makes this coin so special, along with six more quarters that have been valued at over $250,000 due to their rarity, history, and collector demand.
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter features a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dual date “1776–1976” on the obverse. While most were struck in copper-nickel clad, a rare version was minted on a 90% silver planchet, making it incredibly valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
A small number of these silver Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly released into circulation instead of being reserved for proof sets. Only a handful exist, making them some of the rarest Bicentennial quarters. One recently sold for $1.35 million, setting a record for this coin.
What to Look For
- Check the edge – A silver quarter has no copper stripe.
- Weight – Silver quarters are slightly heavier than standard clad quarters.
- Authentication – If you think you have one, professional grading can confirm its value.
Washington
The 1932-D Washington quarter was one of the first Washington quarters ever minted, marking the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.
Why It’s Valuable
With only 436,800 minted, the 1932-D is one of the rarest Washington quarters. In high grades, it is highly sought after and can sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
- Mint mark – Look for the “D” beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition – Near-mint or uncirculated examples are the most valuable.
Liberty
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is one of the most prized U.S. quarters, being the first quarter minted at the Carson City Mint.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 8,340 were minted, and few survived. High-grade versions can sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark – Found beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Authentication – Due to its rarity, professional verification is essential.
Barber
The 1901-S Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, is the rarest in its series.
Why It’s Valuable
With a mintage of only 72,664, it is extremely scarce, especially in uncirculated condition. High-grade versions can fetch over $250,000.
What to Look For
- S mint mark – Located beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition – Even circulated examples hold significant value.
Capped
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is famous for its overdate error, where a 3 was struck over a 2 in the date.
Why It’s Valuable
Few of these coins exist, making them one of the rarest quarters from the 19th century. Some have sold for over $300,000.
What to Look For
- Overdate error – The 3 in the date appears doubled or over a 2.
- Authentication – A magnifying glass or professional grading can verify authenticity.
Draped
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter was the first quarter ever minted in the U.S.
Why It’s Valuable
With only 6,146 minted, this quarter is both historically and financially valuable. High-grade examples can sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
- Obverse design – Features Lady Liberty with flowing hair.
- Reverse design – Displays a small eagle.
Another Liberty
The 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter is another rarity from the Carson City Mint.
Why It’s Valuable
With a mintage of only 10,890, well-preserved examples can sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark – Beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition – Even circulated coins are highly valuable.
These quarters prove that rare and historical coins can hold extraordinary value. If you have an old quarter, checking its mint mark, condition, and possible errors could uncover a hidden treasure worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars!
FAQs
How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the edge—if there’s no copper stripe, it may be silver.
Why is the 1932-D Washington quarter so valuable?
Its low mintage of 436,800 makes it one of the rarest quarters.
What is the rarest Barber quarter?
The 1901-S Barber quarter is the rarest, with only 72,664 minted.
How much is a 1796 Draped Bust quarter worth?
High-grade versions can sell for over $250,000.
Are Carson City quarters valuable?
Yes, due to their low mintage and historical significance.
