While most Bicentennial quarters, minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, are worth just their face value of 25 cents, this particular quarter stands out due to a rare minting error.
Its extraordinary sale price proves that sometimes, even the most unexpected finds in coin collecting can yield enormous profits. Let’s explore the details of this rare quarter, along with six other coins that have sold for over $1 million, showing that the world of rare coins is full of high-value treasures.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $56 Million
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter that recently fetched nearly $56 million is a prime example of how a coin’s value can skyrocket due to a rare error. This specific quarter was struck with a major minting flaw—a significant misalignment of the die, which caused an off-center strike.
The coin was also graded as a proof, meaning it was struck with a special process to create a detailed, mirrored finish, adding to its overall allure.
6 Other Coins Worth Over $1 Million
While the $56 million Bicentennial quarter has garnered significant attention, it’s far from the only coin with a multimillion-dollar price tag. Here are six other rare coins that have sold for over $1 million, each with unique features that make them highly valuable.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle – $22 Million
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One of the most famous coins in the world, the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle, fetched a record $22 million at auction in 2021. Originally struck in 1933, this coin was never officially released into circulation due to a gold recall during the Great Depression.
Most of the 445,500 coins were melted down, but a few managed to escape destruction, making them incredibly rare.
The high value of this coin is driven by its scarcity, historical significance, and its connection to the U.S. government’s decision to abandon the gold standard. Only one known specimen of this coin remains in private hands, contributing to its staggering auction price.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $4.56 Million
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is another legendary coin that commands a high price due to its rarity and backstory. Only five of these coins were minted, and they were not authorized for circulation. A U.S. Mint employee illegally struck the coins, and they were never meant to be released.
In 2018, one of these five nickels sold for $4.56 million. The rarity of the coin, combined with its intriguing story, makes it one of the most highly sought-after coins in the world of numismatics.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar – $4.14 Million
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is another coin that carries both historical weight and extreme rarity. Although it is dated 1804, the coins were actually struck in 1834 as presentation pieces for foreign dignitaries.
Only 15 known specimens exist, making them one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American numismatics.
In 1999, one of these silver dollars was sold for $4.14 million. The combination of its age, limited mintage, and historical significance has made it one of the most coveted coins among collectors.
4. 1927-D Double Eagle Gold Coin – $1.5 Million
The 1927-D Double Eagle is another rare and highly valuable gold coin. Minted during the Great Depression, the 1927-D Double Eagle has a low mintage and is extremely rare. The coin features a design by famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and depicts a soaring eagle.
5. 1943 Copper Penny – $1.7 Million
The 1943 Copper Penny is one of the most famous error coins in the world. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to producing pennies made of steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly struck and released into circulation.
In 2019, one of these rare copper pennies was sold for $1.7 million. The coin’s value comes from its extreme rarity—only a handful of copper pennies from 1943 are known to exist—and its status as one of the most valuable error coins in history.
6. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – $10 Million
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is widely considered one of the first silver dollars ever minted by the U.S. Mint. Its rarity and historical significance have made it a key piece in any coin collection. One of the finest examples of this coin sold for a record-breaking $10 million at auction in 2013.
The coin features a flowing hair design by Robert Scot and was produced in limited quantities, adding to its desirability and high market value. With only a few examples remaining, this coin remains one of the most expensive in U.S. history.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $45 Million USD: 4 More Coins Valued Over $1.5 Million
| Coin Name | Year | Auction Price (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $56 million | Off-center strike error, proof coin |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | $22 million | Never circulated, gold coin |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.56 million | Struck illegally, only five examples |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | 1804 (minted 1834) | $4.14 million | Rare presentation coin, only 15 specimens known |
| 1927-D Double Eagle Gold Coin | 1927 | $1.5 million | Rare, low mintage, gold coin |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million | Error coin, copper instead of steel |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million | One of the first U.S. silver dollars, historical significance |
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter worth $56 million?
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter in question was struck with a significant off-center error, and its perfect proof condition made it a highly valuable collector’s item. The combination of rarity, historical significance, and minting error contributed to its record-breaking auction price.
Are there other coins that have sold for millions?
Yes, many coins have sold for over $1 million. Some of the most famous include the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle ($22 million) and the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel ($4.56 million).
How can I determine if my coin is worth something?
You can have your coin appraised by a reputable coin dealer or submit it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. These organizations can help determine its authenticity and value based on its condition, rarity, and demand.
Why are error coins so valuable?
Error coins are valuable because they are rare. Minting mistakes occur infrequently, and as a result, coins with errors—such as misstrikes or incorrect designs—are highly prized by collectors.
Can anyone find a rare coin worth millions?
While it’s possible to find a rare coin, most of the coins worth millions are incredibly rare, and discovering one in circulation is extremely unlikely. Many of these coins are discovered through auctions, estates, or by collectors who actively search for them.