Coin collecting isn’t just about appreciating history; it’s also about uncovering hidden treasures that could be worth a fortune. Among the countless coins minted over the years, a select few quarters have captured the attention of collectors not only for their design but also for their significant value.
A prime example is a rare Bicentennial Quarter that recently fetched nearly $201,000 at auction. In this article, we’ll cut into the details of this incredible coin and look into six other quarters valued at over $25,000 that could be waiting to be discovered in your collection.
$201,000 Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, released in 1976 to celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary of independence, is typically worth only its face value. However, a rare version of this quarter, made from 40% silver and intended for collectors, recently made headlines when it sold for nearly $201,000.
What makes this quarter so valuable? It was part of a special mint set and stood out due to its exceptional condition, rarity, and historical significance. Certified by professional grading services, the coin’s high grade, combined with its silver content and the patriotic event it commemorates, played a crucial role in its astonishing value. This sale highlights how even the most common-seeming coins can turn out to be numismatic jackpots.
Six High-Value Quarters
While the $201,000 Bicentennial Quarter is remarkable, other quarters have also reached impressive values, each commanding over $25,000. Let’s take a closer look at six of these high-value quarters that might just be hiding in your collection.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a rare gem in the Washington quarter series, with a limited mintage of only 408,000 coins. In pristine condition, this quarter can easily be worth over $25,000. The “S” mint mark, indicating it was minted in San Francisco, along with its low mintage, makes it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
1943 Copper Quarter
The 1943 Copper Quarter is a true numismatic anomaly. During World War II, quarters were supposed to be struck in silver, but a few were mistakenly made in copper. These rare errors are incredibly valuable. A well-preserved 1943 Copper Quarter can fetch over $25,000, making it one of the most intriguing finds in coin collecting due to its rarity and the story behind its creation.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter is known for an unusual mint error where a Denver (D) mint mark was punched over a San Francisco (S) mint mark. This rare mistake created a unique coin that collectors highly prize. High-grade examples of this quarter can exceed $25,000, valued for both their rarity and the historical context of the error.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter is famous for a doubling effect on the reverse side, particularly noticeable in the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This error, resulting from a misalignment during the minting process, makes this quarter highly desirable. In top condition, these quarters can command prices above $25,000, prized for their rarity and the distinctiveness of the error.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Quarter
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Quarter stands out due to a subtle variation in its date font, distinguishing it from the standard large date version minted that same year. In high grades, this coin can be worth more than $25,000. Collectors treasure it for its rarity and the nuanced difference in design, adding a unique element to any collection.
1983-P Washington Quarter
The 1983-P Washington Quarter is considered a modern rarity, especially in uncirculated condition. Quarters from this year are scarce in mint condition due to a low survival rate. A mint-state example of the 1983-P can be valued at over $25,000, underscoring the importance of condition in determining a coin’s worth, even for relatively recent issues.
| Quarter | Year | Unique Feature | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | 40% silver, special mint set | ~$201,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage, San Francisco Mint | $25,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Quarter | 1943 | Copper error, supposed to be silver | $25,000+ |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter | 1950 | D mint mark over S mint mark | $25,000+ |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter | 1964 | Doubling effect on reverse | $25,000+ |
| 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Quarter | 1970 | Small date font variation | $25,000+ |
| 1983-P Washington Quarter | 1983 | Rare in uncirculated condition | $25,000+ |
Coin collecting offers more than just a glimpse into history; it can also be a lucrative hobby for those with an eye for rare and valuable pieces. The Bicentennial Quarter that sold for nearly $201,000 and the six additional quarters highlighted in this article demonstrate the potential financial rewards hidden within small pieces of metal. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, the thrill of discovering a rare gem in your collection is both exciting and potentially rewarding.
FAQs
How much did the rare Bicentennial Quarter sell for?
It sold for nearly $201,000 at auction.
What makes the 1932-S Washington Quarter valuable?
Its low mintage of 408,000 pieces makes it highly sought after.
Why is the 1943 Copper Quarter rare?
It was mistakenly made in copper during a time when quarters were supposed to be struck in silver.
What is unique about the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter?
It features a Denver mint mark stamped over a San Francisco mint mark.
What caused the 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse error?
A misalignment during the minting process led to a doubling effect on the reverse side.
