5 Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $10 Million — Could You Have One?

Coin collecting is an incredibly rewarding hobby that blends history, artistry, and economics. Among the many coins collectors chase after, rare quarters hold a special allure for their value and historical significance. One of the most remarkable discoveries is the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1975 and 1976 to honor the 200th anniversary of America’s founding.

Although most Bicentennial Quarters are only worth their 25-cent face value, a few ultra-rare versions have fetched jaw-dropping prices, with one estimated to be worth nearly $10 million. This article explores some of the rarest quarters, including the legendary Bicentennial Quarter and other historic coins valued at over $500,000.

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Bicentennial Quarter

The Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the United States’ 200th birthday. Its distinctive design features a colonial drummer and a torch encircled by 13 stars on the reverse, with the dual date “1776-1976” on the obverse.

Most of these quarters are common and can still be found in circulation. However, an exceptionally rare version struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel blend is valued at nearly $10 million.

Why Is This Coin So Valuable?

The astronomical value of this quarter is due to its rarity and unique characteristics, including:

Minting Errors: Double strikes, off-center designs, and other minting anomalies increase its desirability.
Material Composition: The 90% silver content is a rare anomaly for Bicentennial Quarters, making it incredibly valuable.
Historical Significance: As a commemorative coin, it marks a pivotal moment in American history.

Collectors are willing to spend extraordinary amounts to own this rare treasure, solidifying its legendary status in the numismatic world.

1932-D Washington Quarter

Another prized coin is the 1932-D Washington Quarter, minted in Denver. This coin marked the beginning of the Washington Quarter series, adding to its historical significance.

What Makes It Special?

Limited Mintage: Only 436,800 coins were produced, making it one of the rarest Washington Quarters.
Historical Value: As the first coin in the Washington Quarter series, it carries immense historical weight.
Market Value: In pristine condition, this coin can fetch upwards of $500,000 at auction.

Owning this quarter is like holding a piece of American history, making it a holy grail for collectors.

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1932-S Washington Quarter

The 1932-S Washington Quarter, minted in San Francisco, is another coveted piece for collectors, almost as rare as its Denver counterpart.

What Sets It Apart?

Scarcity: While slightly more common than the 1932-D, the 1932-S is still incredibly rare.
High-Grade Value: Quarters in near-perfect condition can easily surpass $500,000, especially those with sharp details and original luster.

For collectors aiming to complete their Washington Quarter series, this coin is an essential find.

1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is admired not only for its rarity but for its stunning artistic design.

Key Features and Value

Extremely Low Mintage: Only 52,000 coins were produced, making it one of the rarest quarters in U.S. history.
Iconic Design: The depiction of Lady Liberty standing with a shield is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coin designs ever created.
High Value: High-grade examples, especially those with full head details, can command prices over $500,000.

This quarter represents a turning point in American coin design and remains a collector favorite.

1796 Draped Bust Quarter

The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the earliest quarters ever minted in the United States, making it an essential piece for serious collectors.

Why It’s Valuable

Historical Importance: As one of the nation’s first quarters, it represents the dawn of U.S. coinage.
Extreme Rarity: Only 6,146 were minted, and even fewer survive today.
Market Value: Well-preserved examples with the small eagle reverse design can sell for over $500,000.

Owning this coin is like holding a tangible piece of early American history.

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1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter

The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is famous for its unique overdate error, where the year “1823” was struck over “1822.”

Why Collectors Want It

Minting Error: The overdate makes this coin an exciting anomaly that adds to its value.
Scarcity: Very few of these coins exist, making them incredibly rare.
High Value: Coins in top condition can sell for over $500,000, making this piece a prized possession for collectors.

1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter

Minted in Carson City, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is a standout coin with rich historical ties to the American West.

What Makes It Special

Historical Connection: Carson City Mint is legendary for producing some of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
Rarity: Limited mintage makes this coin a rare gem.
Value: Even lower-grade examples are worth thousands, while mint-condition quarters can exceed $500,000.

This coin captures the rugged spirit of the Wild West and its unique minting legacy.

Final Thoughts

The rare Bicentennial Quarter, worth nearly $10 million, shows that even modern coins can become numismatic treasures due to minting anomalies and unusual compositions.

Meanwhile, other historic quarters like the 1932-D Washington Quarter, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, and the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter have all commanded prices above $500,000 because of their rarity and historical significance.

For collectors, these quarters are more than just coins—they are artifacts that tell the story of America’s past. Whether you’re exploring old coin collections or checking your loose change, discovering one of these rare quarters could 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.