American history holds the Bicentennial quarter close because it was minted during 1975 and 1976. The coin bears the dual date “1776–1976” and features a colonial drummer motif to mark the bicentennial of the nation.
Ordinary Bicentennial quarters are only worth twenty-five cents but extremely rare specimens have reached astronomical values with their most valuable example selling for almost three hundred fifty thousand dollars.
Let’s look into what makes some Bicentennial quarters and other U.S. quarters so valuable.
Table of Contents
1 Bicentennial
2 1932-D Washington
3 1870-CC Liberty
4 1901-S Barber
5 1823/2 Capped Bust
6 1796 Draped Bust
7 1871-CC Liberty
8 FAQs
Bicentennial
Most Bicentennial quarters are common, made of copper-nickel clad. However, a small number were struck on 40% silver planchets meant for collector sets. Some of these silver quarters accidentally entered circulation, making them highly sought after.
Why It’s Valuable
A silver Bicentennial quarter in near-perfect condition recently sold for close to $350,000. Its rarity comes from the silver composition and the mistake of being released into circulation instead of a collector’s set.
What to Look For
Edge: A silver quarter has a solid silver edge, while common quarters have a copper stripe.
Weight: Silver quarters are slightly heavier than standard ones.
Condition: The better the condition, the more valuable it is. Have it professionally graded if you think you have one.
1932-D Washington
History launched the Washington quarter series during 1932 because George Washington was celebrating his 200th birthday. The 1932-D (Denver) quarter stands out as a very uncommon piece among all Washington quarter variants. Why It’s Valuable Fewer than 436,800 quarters exist due to the low number manufactured in 1932-D. This coin possesses remarkable historical value which drives its market price to exceed $100,000 when it is in perfect condition. What to Look For Look for the distinction mark “D” added below the eagle on the coin’s reverse side. The market differentiates between coins that are still in their original state as well as those that have experienced dust but remain intact. 1870-CC Liberty The
1870-CC Liberty
Seated quarter was minted by Carson City at extremely low numbers making it a prize for collectors. Why It’s Valuable
The 8,340 total quantity produced sets this quarter among the rarest worldwide. An auction value exceeding $100,000 can be reached by high grade specimens. What to Look For Mint Mark: A “CC” on the reverse under the eagle. Firstly you must authenticate this piece as it is an extremely scarce item.
1901-S Barber
The Barber quarter series operated during 1892 to 1916 according to designer Charles E. Barber. There exists only one rarest quarter in the 1901-S (San Francisco) Barber series. Why It’s Valuable The survival rate for these 72.664 coins produced by the US Mint remains low since they are difficult to find in good condition. A high-quality preserved 1901-S Barber exists worth more than $100,000.
What to Look For
The “S” designation appears beneath the eagle figure on the coin’s reverse side. Although any condition of these coins possesses monetary worth the extreme scarcity of mint-state specimens makes them especially valuable. 1823/2 Capped Bust The rare error type on
1823/2 Capped Bust
quarter shows the “3” stamping over the faded “2” stamp of the date. Why It’s Valuable This specific minting defect has elevated its status as an important piece for coin collectors. An excellent example of this coin can fetch over $100,000 in the market. What to Look For Investigate the date’s third numeral which reveals signs of the hidden second number under it. Expert magnification or professional authentication through expert certification serves to confirm its authenticity.
1796 Draped Bust
The United States produced its first-ever quarter in 1796 with the Draped Bust quarter while maintaining historical worth. Why It’s Valuable The existence of these coins remains extremely scarce because their production reached only 6,146 examples. Examples in superior condition and excellent preservation state have values that surpass $100,000. What to Look For The coin displays Lady Liberty wearing flowing hair on its front side together with an eagle design on its back. Because of its high market value professional authentication must be performed.
1871-CC Liberty
About 6,146 precious 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarters were produced at the Carson City Mint making them appealing to collection enthusiasts. Why It’s Valuable Such low production levels of 10,890 coins resulted in market values exceeding $100,000 for high-grade specimens.
What to Look For
Mint Mark: Look for the “CC” below the eagle.
Verification: Counterfeits exist, so authentication is necessary.
If you think you have one of these rare quarters, it’s worth checking its mint mark, weight, and condition. A simple 25-cent piece could be hiding a fortune!
FAQs
1. What makes the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is valuable due to its rarity, minting errors, and collector demand. Certain rare versions with errors or special characteristics can fetch high prices.
2. How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is worth money?
Check for minting errors like double die, off-center strikes, or missing mint marks. Also, quarters struck on silver planchets or in pristine condition (graded MS-67 or higher) can be highly valuable.
3. Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
You can sell rare coins at online marketplaces like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or through professional coin dealers and numismatic conventions.
4. What are the six other rare coins worth over $1,000,000?
Some of the most valuable coins include the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, and rare mint error dimes or pennies.
5. How do I get my coin authenticated and appraised?
You can get your coin authenticated and graded by professional organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC).