While most U.S. quarters are worth a mere 25 cents, some rare and error coins can be worth millions. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one such example, and certain errors make it highly valuable.
Beyond this coin, there are several other rare and highly sought-after coins that can be worth over $499,999. Let’s dive into the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, as well as two other rare coins worth a small fortune.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Error)
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was struck to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, featuring a special design with Independence Hall on the reverse side. While most of these coins were minted with a “D” mint mark (Denver), a rare error occurred when some were mistakenly struck without a mint mark, making them incredibly valuable.
Why It’s Valuable: The majority of 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were minted with the “D” (Denver) mint mark. However, a small number of these coins were struck without a mint mark at all, making them a highly coveted rarity among collectors. Because of the mintage error, these coins are considered extremely valuable.
Value: The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with no mint mark can sell for up to $10 million USD, especially if it’s in pristine condition. Coins graded MS-67 or higher are the most valuable.
What to Look For:
- A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter that has no mint mark.
- The coin should be in excellent condition (preferably graded MS-67 or higher).
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. This coin is part of the Mercury Dime series, which was produced from 1916 to 1945. The 1916-D Mercury Dime is especially valuable because only a small number were minted in Denver, and it was produced during a period of coin shortages, making it a rare find.
Why It’s Valuable: The 1916-D Mercury Dime is rare because of its low mintage and its association with the Mercury Dime series, which is already a highly collectible series. Only a few thousand of these coins were produced at the Denver Mint, and fewer still are in good condition.
Value: In excellent condition, the 1916-D Mercury Dime can be worth over $500,000. The highest quality examples have sold for as much as $1.5 million in recent auctions, making it one of the top prizes for collectors of dimes.
What to Look For:
- A Mercury Dime with the “D” mint mark from 1916.
- The coin should be in high-grade condition (graded MS-65 or higher).
3. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a famous error coin in the history of U.S. numismatics. The error occurred when a die used to strike the coins became damaged, causing the buffalo on the reverse side to appear with only three legs. This striking flaw makes it one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels ever minted.
Why It’s Valuable: The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is valuable due to the minting error that resulted in the missing leg on the buffalo. The error was due to a damaged die, and only a small number of these coins were produced. As a result, the coin has become a highly sought-after rarity.
Value: Depending on the coin’s condition, a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel can be worth anywhere from $500,000 to over $1 million. Coins in pristine condition (graded MS-65 or higher) are especially valuable.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $15 Million USD: 5 More worth over $799,999 Gems
What to Look For:
- A 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with a missing leg on the buffalo.
- The coin should be in high-grade condition to fetch its highest value.
How Do I Know If My Coin Is Worth Over $499,999?
To determine whether a coin is worth over $499,999, you should look for rare mint errors, low mintage numbers, or historical significance. A coin’s condition (its grade) is also a major factor—higher-grade coins (like MS-65 or higher) are worth significantly more.
You can have your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC to get a more accurate valuation.
What Is Coin Grading?
Coin grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition based on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being a perfect coin. Higher grades generally correspond to coins that are well-preserved and free from damage. Coins in higher grades tend to fetch higher prices at auctions.
Are There Other Rare Coins Worth Over $499,999?
Yes! Other rare coins worth over $499,999 include the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, the 1894-S Barber Dime, and the 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin. These coins are highly prized due to mint errors, low production numbers, and historical significance.
How Do I Sell a Rare Coin?
If you have a rare coin, the best course of action is to have it professionally graded and authenticated first. You can then sell it through coin auctions, numismatic dealers, or online platforms specializing in rare coins.
For high-value coins, auction houses often offer the best selling opportunities, as they specialize in handling rare and valuable pieces.