The world of coin collecting is fascinating, and you may be surprised to learn that some of your spare change could be worth a fortune. While most coins are worth exactly what their face value is, there are rare exceptions—particularly when it comes to quarters.
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, for example, has become one of the most famous and valuable coins in history, with certain examples selling for millions of dollars.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the story of the rare Bicentennial quarter worth $5 million, as well as four other quarters that can bring in over $100,000. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just someone with a jar of change lying around, this guide might help you discover some hidden treasures.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter: A Coin with a Story
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. The reverse side of the coin features a drummer boy—a symbol of the American Revolution—while the obverse side still displays George Washington’s image. The year “1776” is prominently shown alongside “1976,” marking the Bicentennial.
While millions of these coins were produced, only a few are worth more than their face value of 25 cents. What makes some of these coins so valuable? It all comes down to rare errors, misprints, and variations in design that make certain quarters one-of-a-kind. These unique features have caught the attention of collectors, making certain 1976 Bicentennial quarters worth a fortune.
The $5 Million Bicentennial Quarter
In 2021, a rare 1976 Bicentennial quarter was sold for a jaw-dropping $5 million at auction. This coin became famous not only because of its rarity but also due to a unique error that made it stand out.
The specific quarter in question had an overstruck image of the drummer boy, creating a double image that made it one of the most unusual coins ever produced. The error occurred when the coin was struck with two dies that were slightly out of alignment, creating a misprint that made it highly valuable.
This particular quarter set a new record for the most expensive quarter ever sold, showing just how much rare misprints and errors can increase a coin’s value. It’s a reminder for all coin collectors to pay close attention to the details when examining their coins—an error can turn a typical coin into an incredibly valuable collector’s item.
Four More Quarters Worth Over $100,000
While the $5 million Bicentennial quarter is an extreme example, several other quarters are also worth over $100,000 due to their rarity, errors, and historical significance. Here are four examples of quarters that could fetch a small fortune:
| Coin | Year | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $500,000 – $1,000,000 | A rare coin with no stars on the reverse side, only a few hundred are known. |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | $200,000 – $500,000 | One of the first quarters with Washington’s image, minted in limited numbers. |
| 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter | 1927 | $100,000 – $300,000 | A rare coin struck in San Francisco, only a few surviving specimens exist. |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | $150,000 – $350,000 | A rarer version of the Washington quarter, produced at the San Francisco Mint. |
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter (No Stars)
The 1916 Standing Liberty quarter is one of the most valuable and rare quarters in American coinage. The reverse side of the coin was initially designed with stars, but a few coins were struck without them due to a die error.
These “no star” versions can be worth anywhere between $500,000 and $1 million, depending on their condition. Collectors covet these coins for their rarity and historical significance.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932 Washington quarter was the first quarter to feature George Washington’s portrait. While most were minted in Philadelphia, a limited number were produced in Denver. Due to the small mintage, the 1932-D Washington quarter is highly sought after by collectors, and in excellent condition, it can command anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000.
1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
This quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another rare coin from the Standing Liberty series. Only a small number of these coins were struck, and many were worn down over time. Because of its limited supply and high demand, a 1927-S Standing Liberty quarter can be worth between $100,000 and $300,000, especially in top condition.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington quarter was also struck in limited numbers at the San Francisco Mint. This rare coin is often in high demand among collectors, with prices ranging from $150,000 to $350,000 for coins in excellent condition.
How to Spot a Rare Coin
Identifying rare coins, especially those that could be worth a small fortune, requires a keen eye and knowledge. Here are some tips to help you identify valuable quarters:
- Look for Errors: Misprints or errors during the minting process can increase a coin’s value. Common errors include double images, off-center strikes, and die cracks.
- Check the Mint Mark: Coins with mint marks like “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) are sometimes rarer than those minted in Philadelphia.
- Condition Matters: The better the condition of a coin, the more valuable it is. Coins with sharp, clear details and minimal wear are always worth more.
- Research Rarity: Some years and mint marks are far rarer than others. Doing some research into specific coins will help you identify which ones might be worth more.
How do I know if my 1976 Bicentennial quarter is valuable?
A: To determine if your Bicentennial quarter is valuable, check for any signs of error, such as double images or unusual die cracks. Coins that show misprints are often worth more. If in doubt, have it professionally appraised.
Where can I sell my rare quarters?
A: You can sell rare quarters through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay. It’s a good idea to have your coins authenticated and appraised to ensure you get the best price.
How should I store my rare coins?
A: Store your rare coins in protective cases or holders made of acid-free materials to prevent damage. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and humidity.