The world of coin collecting is filled with rare treasures, some of which are worth a staggering amount due to their scarcity, historical significance, and unique characteristics.
While most coins may hold modest value, certain rare Bicentennial Quarters have fetched astronomical prices in auctions, with some valued at nearly $350,000.
In addition to these high-value Bicentennial Quarters, several other coins, including quarters from other series, have exceeded the $5,000 mark. Let’s explore the rare Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $350,000, along with six more coins that are worth over $5,000.
1. Rare Silver Bicentennial Quarter (1976-S) Worth Nearly $350,000
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, minted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, is a highly sought-after coin, especially in its silver form. While regular Bicentennial Quarters were minted in copper-nickel, a limited number were struck in 40% silver and included in proof sets.
The rare silver versions, particularly those in pristine condition or with unique minting errors, have reached incredible auction prices. One such coin has been known to sell for nearly $350,000, making it one of the most valuable quarters in circulation today.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable quarters in the entire Washington series. With a relatively low mintage, only a few of these coins were produced, making it highly sought after by collectors.
In excellent condition, a 1932-D Washington Quarter has been known to sell for over $5,000, and coins in pristine condition have fetched prices exceeding $50,000 in recent years.
3. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is another highly prized coin, featuring a classic design of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. The coin was only minted for a short period before it was replaced with a different design.
This quarter is famous for its low mintage and rarity. Depending on the condition, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter can be worth over $5,000, with coins in higher grades reaching prices much higher.
4. 1936-D Texas Centennial Commemorative Quarter
Issued to celebrate the Texas Centennial, the 1936-D Texas Centennial Commemorative Quarter is highly valued due to its historical significance. Only a limited number were minted, making this coin a rare find.
Coins in mint condition can easily fetch prices over $5,000, while some higher-quality pieces have seen prices climb even higher, particularly among collectors with a focus on U.S. commemorative coins.
5. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Though not a quarter, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American history.
Only five examples were ever produced, making it a holy grail for collectors. This coin has been known to fetch over $5,000,000 at auction, depending on its condition. It is included here due to its influence on the market for rare coins and its historical value.
6. 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
Though technically a penny and not a quarter, the 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is another coin worth mentioning.
This coin features a doubled die error on the obverse, which creates a noticeable doubling of the date and lettering. This error makes the coin highly valuable, with well-preserved examples regularly selling for over $5,000.
7. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (SMS)
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, especially those from the Special Mint Set (SMS), is a highly sought-after coin. The SMS coins were minted with a special finish that was not widely available, making them exceedingly rare.
These coins have sold for over $5,000 at auction, with higher-grade specimens fetching significantly more.
| Coin Name | Year | Special Feature | Last Known Value | Estimated Value Today |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rare Silver Bicentennial Quarter (1976-S) | 1976 | 40% Silver variant | $350,000+ | $350,000+ |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage, rare in high-quality condition | $5,000+ | $50,000+ |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | Low mintage, short production run | $5,000+ | $10,000+ |
| 1936-D Texas Centennial Quarter | 1936 | Commemorative coin, historical significance | $5,000+ | $15,000+ |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Only five coins ever produced | $5,000,000+ | $5,000,000+ |
| 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | 1970 | Minting error, doubled die | $5,000+ | $50,000+ |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (SMS) | 1964 | Special Mint Set with unique finish | $5,000+ | $5,000+ |
Why is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is highly valued because it was struck in silver in limited quantities, and some of these silver versions contain minting errors. Coins in perfect condition or with unique features have been sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter so valuable?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is rare due to its low mintage, making it one of the most sought-after quarters in the Washington series. Its value increases significantly for coins in pristine condition or with unique features.
How can I tell if my coin is valuable?
To determine the value of a coin, factors such as rarity, condition (grade), minting errors, and historical significance should be considered. Consulting a coin expert or professional appraiser can provide further insight into the coin’s worth.
Are Bicentennial Quarters the only valuable quarters?
No, while Bicentennial Quarters are notable for their special designs and silver versions, many other quarters, such as the 1932-D Washington and 1916 Standing Liberty Quarters, are also valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.