The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is a classic coin of American money, produced to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Though most of them are only worth face value, a few limited editions have found their way into the hearts of collectors, selling for eye-watering sums. One silver Bicentennial quarter recently fetched a staggering $1.35 million. Let’s explore this unusual coin and six other quarters worth more than $250,000, each with its own interesting tale.
Bicentennial
The Bicentennial quarter has a colonial drummer on the back and the double date “1776–1976” on the front. While most were in copper-nickel clad, there was one rare version which was struck onto a 90% silver planchet meant for proof sets, and one has just sold for $1.35 million.
Why It’s Valuable
This quarter of silver is highly unusual as a result of a minting mishap that put it into circulation instead of keeping it as part of collector sets. Its distinct mix of metals and historical value have propelled its price to record levels.
What to Look For
Silver Bicentennial quarters are heavier than clad versions. Inspect the coin’s edge for solid silver coloration rather than the copper stripe found on common coins.
1932-D
The Washington quarter series started in 1932, and the Denver-minted 1932-D is among its most rare.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 436,800 were produced, making it very popular, particularly in mint state, with values over $250,000.
What to Look For
The reverse displays a “D” mint mark below the eagle. Even circulated ones can command a premium, although near-mint ones are incredibly valuable.
1870-CC
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter from the Carson City Mint is popular among collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Just 8,340 were made, and many were lost or melted, so high-grade specimens are exceptionally rare and over $250,000 in value.
What to Look For
The “CC” mint mark on the back under the eagle guarantees its Carson City origin. Avoid counterfeits and have professional authentication.
1901-S
The 1901-S Barber quarter is the most rare of its series, made in San Francisco.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 72,664 coins were minted, less than 1,000 of which are estimated to exist. Uncirculated specimens commonly command more than $250,000.
What to Look For
The “S” mint mark under the eagle marks this worthwhile coin. Worn copies retain considerable value for their rarity.
1823/2
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is renowned for its overdate mistake, where the “3” of the date was over-struck by a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable
Its rarity due to the single-digit number of surviving examples and the fact that it is an error coin make it worth more than $300,000 in good condition.
What to Look For
Inspect the date closely for doubling or traces of the underlying “2.” A magnifying glass or expert grading will be able to verify the overdate.
1796
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter is the first-ever quarter struck in U.S. history, with a mintage of just 6,146 pieces.
Why It’s Valuable
Its status as the first quarter, along with its limited mintage, makes the coin extremely popular. Top-grade specimens regularly sell for over $250,000 at auction.
What to Look For
The obverse side has Lady Liberty, and the reverse side has a small eagle. These coins are valuable even in low grades because of their rarity and historical significance.
1871-CC
Another Carson City Mint rarity, the 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter, is unique for its low mintage and high value.
Why It’s Valuable
Minted in only 10,890, it’s one of the Carson City’s rarest quarters. Circulated examples and well-preserved ones can fetch well over $250,000, while circulating coins also receive top dollars.
What to Look For
The “CC” mint mark below the eagle on the back distinguishes this coin. Carson City quarters are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
If you’re a coin enthusiast, keep an eye out for these treasures. Rare quarters can be worth a fortune, whether due to minting errors, historical significance, or extremely low mintage.
FAQ’s
Q. Why is the silver Bicentennial quarter worth money?
A. It was struck on a 90% silver planchet, so it is scarce and valuable.
Q. How much is a 1932-D Washington quarter worth?
A. High-grade examples can sell for over $250,000.
Q. Why is the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter scarce?
A. It has a low mintage of 8,340 coins and strong collector demand.
Q. Where is the mint mark on a 1901-S Barber quarter?
A. The “S” mint mark is under the eagle on the back.
Q. How to know whether it is the 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter?
A. Look for the overdate defect in which the “3” is punched over a “2.”.