Have you ever wondered if an old quarter in your pocket might be worth a fortune? Some coins, like the rare 1976 Bicentennial quarter, have sold for incredible amounts—one even went for $420,000! Several other U.S. quarters are valued at over $11,000 due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting mistakes.
Let’s take a closer look at these valuable coins.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Value: Nearly $420,000
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was designed to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. It features a unique design with a colonial drummer and the dual date “1776–1976.”
Why It’s Valuable
One special Bicentennial quarter was accidentally struck on a 40% silver planchet meant for collector sets, making it extremely rare. Its high grade (MS68) made it worth nearly $420,000 at auction.
How to Spot It
Check the edge of the coin. If it has no copper stripe and looks solid silver, it might be the rare silver quarter. It’s also heavier than regular quarters.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Value: Over $11,000
This coin was created to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. It’s one of the scarcest Washington quarters.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 436,800 were made at the Denver Mint, and finding one in good condition is rare.
How to Spot It
Look for the “D” mint mark on the back under the eagle.
3. 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Value: Over $11,000
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, this coin is one of the rarest in the Liberty Seated series.
Why It’s Valuable
With just 8,340 coins made, finding one in good condition is nearly impossible.
How to Spot It
Check the back for the “CC” mint mark under the eagle.
4. 1901-S Barber Quarter
Value: Over $11,000
The Barber quarter was minted from 1892 to 1916, and the 1901-S is a prized collectible.
Why It’s Valuable
With only 72,664 minted, it’s one of the rarest Barber quarters, especially in high grade.
How to Spot It
Find the “S” mint mark on the back under the eagle.
5. 1955 Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
Value: Over $11,000
This coin has a minting error where parts of the design appear doubled.
Why It’s Valuable
Its dramatic doubling on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” makes it highly collectible.
How to Spot It
Look closely at the text on the front for visible doubling.
6. 1943 Washington Quarter (Overpolished Die Error)
Value: Over $11,000
This error coin has faint or missing details caused by an overpolished die during minting.
Why It’s Valuable
Its unique look and rarity make it a favorite among collectors.
How to Spot It
Check for faint or missing inscriptions, especially “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
7. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
Value: Over $11,000
This coin features an “overdate” error where a “3” was struck over a “2” in the date.
Why It’s Valuable
Its age, rarity, and unique error make it one of the most sought-after early U.S. coins.
How to Spot It
Use magnification to see traces of the “2” under the “3” in the date.
8. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Value: Over $11,000
The first year of the Standing Liberty quarter series produced this rare and historic coin.
Why It’s Valuable
Its low mintage and historical significance make it highly prized, especially in mint condition.
How to Spot It
Look for the date “1916” and the absence of stars under the eagle on the back.
Why These Coins Are So Valuable
Collectors love these quarters for their rarity, unique designs, and minting mistakes.
Coins like the $420,000 Bicentennial quarter show how small details, like a silver composition or a minting error, can make a huge difference in value.
Always inspect your coins carefully, as one lucky find could change your life.
