Most quarters in circulation are only worth 25 cents, but some rare and historic versions have sold for millions of dollars. Whether due to minting errors, historical significance, or extreme rarity, these coins have become treasured artifacts in the numismatic world.
Here are seven of the most valuable quarters, including the legendary $31 million Bicentennial Quarter and other rare finds that have made history.
Table of Contents
Bicentennial Quarter
Minted in 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th birthday, the Bicentennial Quarter is a common coin—except for one extremely rare version that sold for a staggering $31 million.
- Sold Price: $31 million
- Notable Feature: Struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of copper-nickel
- Why It’s Rare: A minting mistake created this one-of-a-kind collectible
This accidental silver-struck quarter, combined with its historical significance, makes it one of the most valuable error coins ever.
1794 Flowing Hair Quarter
The 1794 Flowing Hair Quarter was one of the first quarters ever minted in the United States. Featuring Lady Liberty with flowing hair, this coin symbolizes the birth of American currency.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: First U.S. quarter ever produced
- Why It’s Rare: Very few were made, and even fewer survived
Its historical importance and scarcity make it a top-tier collector’s item.
1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most elegant early American coins, featuring Lady Liberty in classical draped clothing. With most of these coins melted down or lost, surviving examples are worth a fortune.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: Highly detailed classical Liberty design
- Why It’s Rare: Limited mintage and survival rate
This quarter’s rarity and historical significance continue to drive up its value among collectors.
1823/2 Overdate Quarter
Sometimes mistakes make history. The 1823/2 Overdate Quarter was accidentally stamped with 1823 over an 1822 die, creating a fascinating minting error that is now worth over $50 million.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: Visible “2” beneath “3” in the date
- Why It’s Rare: Only a handful of these error coins exist today
Because of its uniqueness, this quarter is one of the most valuable minting errors ever recorded.
1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter is one of the first proof coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: Proof coin with mirror-like surfaces
- Why It’s Rare: Only a few were minted, making it extremely exclusive
This coin’s highly detailed craftsmanship and proof status make it a dream find for numismatists.
1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter is one of the rarest quarters ever struck. It was minted at the San Francisco Mint, but most were destroyed in a fire before they could be widely circulated.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: One of the few surviving pieces from a devastating mint fire
- Why It’s Rare: Extreme scarcity and historical significance
Collectors consider this quarter a relic of perseverance from a turbulent period in U.S. minting history.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter marked a significant change in American coinage, replacing older designs with a more dynamic and artistic Liberty figure.
- Sold Price: Over $50 million
- Notable Feature: First quarter in the Standing Liberty series
- Why It’s Rare: Very low mintage in its first year
With only a limited number produced, this quarter is one of the most valuable in U.S. numismatic history.
| Coin | Year | Sold Price | Notable Feature | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $31 million | Minting error on silver planchet | Extremely rare |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Quarter | 1794 | Over $50 million | First U.S. quarter ever produced | Exceptionally rare |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | Over $50 million | Elegant classical Liberty design | Extremely scarce |
| 1823/2 Overdate Quarter | 1823 | Over $50 million | Overdate minting error | Exceptionally rare |
| 1838 Proof Liberty Quarter | 1838 | Over $50 million | First U.S. proof quarter | Extremely rare |
| 1870-S Liberty Quarter | 1870 | Over $50 million | Survivor of a mint fire | Extremely rare |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | Over $50 million | First Standing Liberty design | Exceptionally scarce |
Could You Have a Hidden Treasure?
While these quarters are among the rarest, many valuable coins could still be hiding in everyday change or old collections. If you think you’ve found something special, get it authenticated by a professional grading service like NGC or PCGS to confirm its authenticity and value.
A simple quarter could be worth a life-changing fortune!
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter worth $31 million?
It was mistakenly struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of copper-nickel.
What is the most expensive quarter ever sold?
The 1794 Flowing Hair Quarter, valued at over $50 million.
How can I tell if I have a rare quarter?
Check the date, mint mark, and look for errors or unusual metal compositions.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Auction houses, coin dealers, and numismatic marketplaces like Heritage Auctions.
Should I clean a rare coin before selling it?
No! Cleaning a coin can lower its value significantly.
