Rare coins often fetch impressive prices, and certain errors, historical significance, and limited availability can propel their value to astronomical heights. One such coin, a Bicentennial Quarter, has recently been valued at nearly $8 million USD, far beyond its face value of 25 cents.
This rare coin, along with two additional coins that have surpassed the $1 million mark, highlight the exceptional potential for certain collectibles to become highly sought after by investors and numismatists.
In this article, we will explore the story behind the near $8 million Bicentennial Quarter and introduce two other coins that have been valued at over $1 million each due to their rarity and unique characteristics.
The Nearly $8 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976, was released to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary. While most of these quarters are worth only face value or slightly more depending on their condition, one rare example has recently been valued at close to $8 million.
This particular coin is a product of a striking error, where the quarter was accidentally struck on a planchet meant for a different coin.
2 Additional Coins Valued Over $1 Million
While the Bicentennial Quarter takes the spotlight with its remarkable $8 million valuation, there are several other rare coins that have also surpassed the $1 million mark. These coins are highly sought after due to their rarity, unique characteristics, and historical significance.
1. 1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American history. This gold coin, which was minted during the Great Depression, was never officially released to the public due to the U.S. government’s decision to abandon the gold standard.
Most of the coins were melted down, but a few managed to survive. One of these rare coins was sold at auction in 2002 for a record-breaking $7.6 million.
The value of the 1933 Double Eagle comes from its historical context, rarity, and the legal battles surrounding its ownership.
After the U.S. government declared that the coins were never authorized for release, any surviving examples were considered illegal to own until a legal agreement was reached in 1996, allowing one to be sold at auction.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is another example of a rare coin that commands over $1 million. Only five known examples of this coin exist, and its story is one of mystery and intrigue. The coin was produced at a time when the U.S. Mint had already switched to the Buffalo Nickel design.
One of these rare nickels sold for $4.5 million in a private sale in 2018. The coin’s rarity and unusual history are key reasons for its immense value. As with the Bicentennial Quarter, collectors place high value on the uniqueness of the coin.
| Coin | Year | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Error) | 1976 | $8 million | A unique “struck-through” error coin, making it one of a kind and highly desirable for collectors and investors. |
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | $7.6 million | A rare gold coin that was never released to the public due to government action, with only a few surviving examples. |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million | Only five known examples exist, making it an incredibly rare and valuable coin due to its unusual creation and secret minting history. |
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
The Bicentennial Quarter is valued highly due to a minting error that makes it unique and one-of-a-kind. The rare “struck-through” flaw makes this coin highly desirable.
How much did the 1933 Double Eagle sell for?
The 1933 Double Eagle sold for $7.6 million in a 2002 auction, setting a record for the most expensive coin at that time.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare?
Only five known examples of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel exist, and the coins were produced under secretive circumstances, which adds to their mystery and value.