Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $1M
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is one of the most recognizable coins in circulation, celebrating America’s 200th anniversary. While most of these quarters are worth only face value, a few rare ones have become highly valuable.
Some have even reached nearly $1 million due to unique minting errors or historical significance. Let’s look into these valuable finds and what makes them special.
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was produced on a special dual-date “1776–1976” and has a colonial drummer on the back. Though billions were produced, some of the rare silver versions are incredibly valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
Few Bicentennial quarters were accidentally produced on 90% silver planchets that were intended for proof coins. These were meant to be used in collector sets but were circulated instead, so they are very coveted.
A high-grade specimen of one of these silver Bicentennial quarters has been worth almost $1 million because it is so rare and historical.
What to Look For
- Check the edge – A silver quarter will never have a copper stripe.
- Weight – Silver quarters are a little heavier than regular clad coins.
- Authentication – If you think you have one, have it graded by PCGS or NGC.
Washington
The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. Most of those issued in 1932 are worth collecting, but the 1932-D (Denver Mint) and 1932-S (San Francisco Mint) are the most scarce.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 436,800 of the quarters were produced in Denver in 1932, which makes the 1932-D Washington quarter one of the rarest in the series. Top-grade specimens sell for more than $100,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Mint mark – Check the “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) below the eagle on the back.
- Condition – Nearly mint or unspent coins are most valuable.
Liberty
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is possibly the rarest and most precious of all the U.S. quarters. The quarter was coined at Carson City, Nevada, a small but short-lived mint that produced coins from local mines.
Why It’s Valuable
It had only 8,340 coins struck and is very rare. Not many survive in high grades, and when they do, they sell for more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark – Inspect the reverse under the eagle.
- Authentication – As it is rare, it’s usually forged, so get a professional grading done.
Barber
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is among the rarest and most expensive U.S. quarters. Designed by Charles E. Barber, this quarter was produced from 1892 to 1916, with the 1901-S being the rarest in the series.
Why It’s Valuable
Fewer than 72,664 quarters were produced in San Francisco in 1901. As Barber quarters were extensively circulated, discovering a well-preserved one is extremely uncommon. High-grade specimens can sell for more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- S mint mark – Below the eagle on the back.
- Condition – Worn 1901-S quarters are worth money, but uncirculated ones are extremely scarce.
Though most quarters that circulate are merely 25 cents, uncommon discoveries such as the silver Bicentennial quarter, 1932-D Washington quarter, 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, and 1901-S Barber quarter may be worth thousands—yes, even millions—because they are so scarce and significant to history. If you suspect that you possess one, it is well worth getting it verified!
FAQ’s
Q. How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
A. Look at the edge—if it has no copper stripe, it could be silver.
Q. Why is the 1932-D Washington quarter worth so much?
A. Its low mintage of 436,800 makes it relatively rare.
Q. What makes the 1870-CC quarter worth so much?
A. Only 8,340 were produced, and few survived in high grades.
Q. How valuable is a 1901-S Barber quarter?
A. High-grade reproductions can cost over $100,000.
Q. Should my quirky quarter be graded?
A. Yes, professional grading confirms authenticity and value.