Coin collecting is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to hold history in your hands. Some rare quarters have become incredibly valuable, with collectors willing to pay millions for certain rare finds.
One of the most famous is the Bicentennial Quarter, a special edition from 1976 that has reached nearly $10 million in value.
But that’s not the only valuable quarter out there. Here’s a look at this coin and six other rare quarters worth over $500,000 each.
The Bicentennial Quarter – A $10 Million Treasure
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was created to celebrate 200 years of American independence.
While most of these quarters are only worth 25 cents, a rare version made of 90% silver and 10% copper has sold for nearly $10 million.
What makes this coin so valuable? It features unique minting errors, including a double strike and an off-center design. These mistakes, along with its historical significance, make it one of the most sought-after quarters in the world.
1932-D Washington Quarter – A Rare First Edition
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the first quarters to feature George Washington. With only 436,800 produced, it’s one of the rarest in the series.
Collectors prize this coin for its low mintage and historical importance. A well-preserved example can sell for more than $500,000, making it a must-have for serious numismatists.
1932-S Washington Quarter – A Valuable San Francisco Mint Coin
Another rare quarter from 1932 is the San Francisco-minted Washington Quarter. While slightly more common than the Denver version, it’s still extremely hard to find in top condition.
Uncirculated versions of this coin are highly sought after, with some selling for over $500,000. Its historical significance and scarcity make it a prized piece in any collection.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – A Short-Lived Design
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most beautiful coins in American history. It was only minted for one year, with just 52,000 produced.
Collectors particularly value examples with well-defined “Full Head” details. A pristine 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter can sell for over $500,000, making it a top-tier collectible.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter – One of the First U.S. Quarters
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the earliest quarters ever made in the U.S. Featuring a small eagle on the reverse, this coin is a true piece of American history.
With a tiny mintage of only 6,146, this quarter is extremely rare. A well-preserved example can easily fetch over $500,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable early American coins.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter – A Unique Overdate Error
Minting errors can make a coin far more valuable, and the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is a perfect example. The original 1822 date was struck over with “1823,” creating a rare overdate variety.
Because of its unique error and limited mintage, this quarter is a favorite among collectors. In excellent condition, it can sell for more than $500,000.
1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter – A Carson City Classic
Coins from the historic Carson City Mint are always in high demand, and the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is no exception. With a low production number, it’s one of the rarest quarters from the 19th century.
High-grade examples of this coin have sold for over $500,000. Its connection to the famous Carson City Mint adds to its historical value, making it a collector’s dream.
Coin Values at a Glance
| Coin | Mint Year | Special Feature | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Minting Error | $10 Million |
| Washington Quarter | 1932-D | Low Mintage | $500,000+ |
| Washington Quarter | 1932-S | Scarcity | $500,000+ |
| Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | First-Year Issue | $500,000+ |
| Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Early U.S. Coinage | $500,000+ |
| Capped Bust Quarter | 1823/2 | Overdate Error | $500,000+ |
| Liberty Seated Quarter | 1870-CC | Carson City Mint | $500,000+ |
The world of rare quarters is full of surprises. From the nearly $10 million Bicentennial Quarter to historic coins like the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter and the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, these coins tell incredible stories.
For collectors, these quarters are more than just money—they’re pieces of history. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or just starting out, these rare coins remind us that sometimes, the most valuable treasures can be hiding in plain sight.
