Coin collecting is an exciting hobby that combines history, artistry, and potential financial gain. While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, a few rare varieties have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Some quarters become valuable due to minting errors, low mintage, or special compositions. In this article, we’ll explore seven extraordinary quarters that have commanded jaw-dropping prices—including a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter that sold for $201,000.
1. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Sold for $201,000
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary. While most of these quarters were struck in common copper-nickel, a special edition was produced in 40% silver for collector sets.
Why Is This Quarter So Valuable?
- Silver Content: Some Bicentennial Quarters were struck on silver planchets instead of standard materials.
- Pristine Condition: Near-perfect specimens graded MS-68 or higher can sell for six figures.
- Historical Significance: It is a one-time commemorative issue, making it highly collectible.
One high-grade silver Bicentennial Quarter recently sold for $201,000, proving that even relatively modern coins can hold immense value.
2. The 1932-S Washington Quarter – Worth Over $25,000
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key date in the Washington quarter series.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Low Mintage: Only 408,000 were minted, making it the lowest-mintage Washington quarter.
- Collector Demand: As the first year of the Washington quarter series, it is highly sought after.
- Condition Matters: Well-preserved, uncirculated examples have sold for more than $25,000.
If you have a 1932-S quarter in mint condition, you could be holding a true numismatic treasure.
3. The 1943 Copper Quarter – Over $25,000
During World War II, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of coins to conserve metals for the war effort. Quarters minted in 1943 were supposed to be made of silver, but a few were accidentally struck in copper.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Quarter:
- Test It With a Magnet: If it sticks, it’s silver; if it doesn’t, it could be a rare copper quarter.
- Weigh It: A standard silver quarter weighs 6.25 grams, while a copper quarter would be lighter.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Minting Mistake: Error coins are always in demand.
- Ultra-Rare: Only a handful of these coins are known to exist.
- High Auction Prices: In pristine condition, these coins have sold for more than $25,000.
4. The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter – Worth $25,000+
A minting error occurred in 1950, when some quarters were initially stamped with a San Francisco mint mark (S) but were later re-stamped with a Denver mint mark (D).
Why Is It Valuable?
- Rare Minting Error: Overmintmark coins are uncommon and highly collectible.
- Strong Auction Sales: High-grade specimens have been valued over $25,000.
Collectors love minting errors, and this overmintmark quarter is a prime example of a valuable mistake.
5. The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter – Worth $25,000+
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter is one of the most famous doubled die error coins.
How to Identify This Error:
- Look for Doubling: The words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the reverse appear doubled.
- Check the Mint Mark: This error only occurred at the Denver Mint (D).
Why Is It Valuable?
- Doubled Die Errors Are Rare: The misalignment of the die created a noticeable doubling effect.
- Collectors Prize These Errors: High-grade versions can sell for over $25,000.
6. The 1970-S Small Date Quarter – Valued at $25,000+
The 1970-S Small Date Quarter is a rare variety that features a slightly smaller date than normal.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Small Date Variation: Differences in font size make this quarter rare.
- Collectors Love Variants: Well-preserved specimens have fetched over $25,000 at auction.
Even subtle design variations can create a highly valuable collector’s item!
7. The 1983-P Washington Quarter – Worth Over $25,000
The 1983-P Washington Quarter is a modern rarity that has shocked collectors with its unexpected value.
Why Is It Valuable?
- Low Survival Rate: Unlike older coins, most 1983-P quarters were heavily circulated and not saved in mint condition.
- Hard to Find in High Grade: Mint-condition examples are rare, pushing up their value.
A well-preserved 1983-P quarter has sold for over $25,000, proving that even modern coins can be worth a fortune!
Summary Table: Rare Quarters Worth a Fortune
| Coin | Year | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Silver version, MS-68 grade | $201,000 |
| Washington Quarter | 1932-S | Low mintage (408,000) | $25,000+ |
| Copper Quarter | 1943 | Struck on wrong metal (copper) | $25,000+ |
| Overmintmark Quarter | 1950-D/S | “D” over “S” mint mark error | $25,000+ |
| Doubled Die Reverse Quarter | 1964-D | Doubling on “E PLURIBUS UNUM” | $25,000+ |
| Small Date Quarter | 1970-S | Rare variety with smaller date | $25,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1983-P | Rare in mint condition | $25,000+ |
Final Thoughts
It’s incredible how something as simple as a 25-cent coin can be worth thousands of dollars. Whether through minting errors, low mintage, or special compositions, these rare quarters highlight the hidden treasures that might be sitting in your pocket change.
If you’re lucky enough to find one of these gems, you might just be holding a small fortune in your hands!
FAQs
Check the date, mint mark, and condition. Look for errors like overdates, missing mint marks, or doubling.
Sell through coin shops, auctions, or online marketplaces like eBay and Heritage Auctions.
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the rarest key date quarters.
Errors are rare and unique, making them highly collectible.
Store them in protective holders, avoid touching them directly, and keep them away from moisture.