5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth $10 Million — Do You Have One?
Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that blends history, art, and the thrill of discovery. Among the most coveted finds are rare quarters, prized for their historical importance and staggering values. One of the most astonishing examples is the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary.
While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth just 25 cents, a handful of rare versions have fetched sky-high prices — with one potentially valued at nearly $10 million. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the rarest quarters, including the legendary Bicentennial Quarter and other coins worth over $500,000.
Bicentennial Quarter
Struck to honor America’s 200th birthday, the Bicentennial Quarter features a distinctive design: a colonial drummer with a torch surrounded by 13 stars on the reverse, and the dual date “1776-1976” on the obverse.
Although most of these quarters are still circulating, an ultra-rare version minted on a 90% silver planchet instead of the typical copper-nickel blend is estimated to be worth nearly $10 million.
What Makes This Coin So Valuable?
The staggering value comes from a mix of rarity and unique traits, including:
- Minting Errors: Double strikes, off-center designs, and other anomalies add to the coin’s desirability.
- Material Composition: The silver content is an unusual variation for Bicentennial Quarters, making it an extraordinary find.
- Historical Significance: As a commemorative coin, it marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history.
Collectors are willing to pay millions to own this treasure, cementing its legendary status in the coin-collecting world.
1932-D Washington Quarter
Another highly sought-after coin is the 1932-D Washington Quarter, produced in Denver. This coin launched the Washington Quarter series, adding even more historical weight to its value.
Why It’s Special:
- Low Mintage: Only 436,800 were minted, making it one of the scarcest Washington Quarters.
- Historical Value: Being the first in the Washington Quarter series makes it a cornerstone of American coinage.
- Market Value: Pristine examples can sell for over $500,000 at auction.
Owning this coin is like holding a tangible piece of U.S. history — a true collector’s dream.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter, minted in San Francisco, is nearly as rare as its Denver counterpart and remains a high-value target for collectors.
What Sets It Apart:
- Scarcity: Though slightly more common than the 1932-D, it’s still incredibly rare.
- High-Grade Value: Well-preserved quarters with sharp details and original luster can surpass $500,000 in value.
For collectors completing the Washington Quarter series, this coin is a must-have.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is revered for both its scarcity and its stunning design.
Key Features and Value:
- Extremely Low Mintage: Only 52,000 were struck, making it one of the rarest quarters in U.S. history.
- Iconic Design: Lady Liberty standing with a shield is considered one of the most beautiful coin designs ever created.
- High Value: High-grade examples with full head details can command prices over $500,000.
This quarter symbolizes a turning point in American coin design and remains a collector favorite.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
As one of the earliest quarters ever minted, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a cornerstone piece for serious collectors.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Historical Importance: As one of the nation’s first quarters, it’s a key part of early U.S. coinage.
- Extreme Rarity: Only 6,146 were minted, with far fewer surviving today.
- Market Value: Well-preserved examples can sell for over $500,000.
Owning this coin is like holding a piece of America’s founding history.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is famous for its unique overdate error, where the year “1823” was stamped over “1822.”
Why Collectors Crave It:
- Minting Error: The overdate makes this coin an exciting anomaly.
- Scarcity: Very few examples exist, adding to its rarity.
- High Value: Top-condition coins can sell for over $500,000.
This coin is a prime example of how minting quirks can turn a piece of change into a collector’s treasure.
Final Thoughts
The rare Bicentennial Quarter, potentially worth nearly $10 million, proves that even modern coins can become legendary thanks to minting errors and unusual compositions.
Meanwhile, historic quarters like the 1932-D Washington Quarter, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, and the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter have achieved six-figure values due to their rarity and historical importance.
For collectors, these coins are more than currency — they’re artifacts that tell the rich story of America’s past. Whether digging through old collections or checking loose change, discovering one of these quarters could truly be a life-changing moment.
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $10 million?
A rare version struck on a 90% silver planchet makes it extraordinarily valuable.
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
Its low mintage of 436,800 coins makes it one of the rarest Washington Quarters.
How many 1796 Draped Bust Quarters exist today?
Only a small number remain, as just 6,146 were originally minted.
What is an overdate error on a coin?
An overdate error happens when a new date is stamped over an existing one, like on the 1823/2 Quarter.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Valuable quarters can be sold at coin auctions, through numismatic dealers, or on online marketplaces like eBay.