The world of coin collecting is full of hidden treasures, but few coins hold the jaw-dropping value of certain quarters. One of the most astonishing sales recently was a rare Bicentennial Quarter that fetched nearly $30 million, highlighting the immense worth of collectible quarters. In this list, we look into seven more quarters valued over $10 million, cutting into their rarity, history, and what makes them worth such extraordinary sums.
Washington
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most sought-after quarters. With a mintage of just 436,800, this coin holds historical significance, marking the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Its scarcity, combined with the ‘D’ mintmark from the Denver Mint, adds to its value. In pristine condition, this quarter can easily fetch over $10 million. Collectors treasure it not only for its rarity but for its role in commemorating a major figure in American history.
Draped
Next on the list is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, a gem from the early days of the U.S. Mint. This quarter had a mintage of just 6,146 pieces, making it exceedingly rare. Featuring the small eagle design on the reverse, a feature used for only two years, this quarter is one of the earliest quarter designs ever minted. In top condition, its value surpasses $10 million, cherished by collectors for its historical significance and rarity.
Overdate
The 1823/2 Overdate Quarter is famous for its unique minting error. The date shows a ‘3’ struck over a ‘2’, an error caused by the mint reusing old dies. This fascinating mistake makes the coin a highly desirable piece for collectors. Very few of these quarters are known to exist, which drives its value well over $10 million. Its rarity and the intriguing overdate error have made it a must-have for serious numismatists.
Proof
The 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter is a rare and beautiful coin. Proof coins were minted in extremely limited numbers, with this particular quarter being sought after for its detailed design and high-quality proof strike. A well-preserved example of this coin can exceed $10 million in value. It’s prized for both its rarity and its place in the evolution of U.S. coin design.
Mystery
The 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter is shrouded in mystery. Records from the San Francisco Mint show no quarters minted in 1870, yet a few specimens exist, adding to the intrigue. This makes the coin one of the most enigmatic and rarest quarters in history. Collectors are drawn to its mysterious background, which has helped push its value beyond $10 million.
Standing
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is renowned for its artistic design and its rarity. With a mintage of only 52,000, this quarter is one of the rarest from the 20th century. Collectors adore its striking design, and a top-condition example can fetch over $10 million. The limited production and stunning appearance make it one of the most coveted pieces in American coinage.
Canadian
The 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter is one of the most unusual mint errors ever. This rare coin was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, creating a one-of-a-kind collectible. The bizarre nature of this mint error makes it extremely valuable, with its price surpassing $10 million. Its uniqueness and the circumstances of its creation have made it a legend among collectors.
| Coin | Year | Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | $10+ million | Limited mintage (436,800) |
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | $10+ million | Small eagle design, rare early U.S. quarter |
| 1823/2 Overdate Quarter | 1823 | $10+ million | Overdate error (‘3’ struck over ‘2’) |
| 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter | 1838 | $10+ million | Rare proof strike |
| 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter | 1870 | $10+ million | Mystery coin, no official mintage |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $10+ million | Limited mintage, renowned design |
| 1970-S Proof Quarter on Canadian Quarter | 1970 | $10+ million | Struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, mint error |
Each of these quarters holds a unique place in history, whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or sheer age. Their rarity and significance make them highly sought-after by collectors, with values soaring well into the millions.
So, next time you come across an old quarter, take a closer look—you might just have a hidden fortune on your hands!
FAQs
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter worth over $10 million?
Its low mintage of 436,800 and historical significance.
Why is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter so valuable?
Its rarity and the use of a rare design only minted for two years.
What’s an overdate error?
An overdate error happens when one number in the date is struck over another.
Why is the 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter so mysterious?
The San Francisco Mint did not officially record minting this quarter.
What’s special about the 1970-S Proof Quarter?
It was accidentally struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, creating a unique error.