Quarters are more than just pocket change. Some rare quarters can be worth thousands due to minting errors, low production numbers, or valuable materials. One standout example is the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, which recently sold for nearly $300,000. Let’s explore this coin and other highly sought-after quarters that collectors dream of owning.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter celebrates the 200th anniversary of the United States. This special edition features the dual date “1776–1976” and a colonial drummer on the reverse side.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Colonial drummer, dual date |
| Metal Composition | Copper-nickel clad (common) |
| 40% silver (rare) | |
| Mintage | Over 1.6 billion (common version) |
| Value (Rare Silver) | Up to $300,000 |
Why It’s Valuable: Most Bicentennial quarters are made from copper-nickel and are worth face value. However, a rare few were struck on silver planchets meant for proof sets. These silver quarters are highly valuable—one recently sold for nearly $300,000 due to its rarity, silver content, and pristine condition.
What to Look For:
- Check the Edge: Silver quarters have a solid silver edge, while copper-nickel versions show a copper core.
- Weight Test: Silver quarters weigh approximately 6.25 grams, slightly more than the standard clad quarters.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter was first minted in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Among these, the 1932-D stands out as a rare and valuable collectible.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | George Washington portrait |
| Mint | Denver (D) |
| Mintage | 436,800 (low production) |
| Value | Over $10,000 (in high grades) |
Why It’s Valuable: With only 436,800 minted, the 1932-D is one of the scarcest quarters in the Washington series. Well-preserved examples fetch over $10,000 due to their rarity and historical significance.
What to Look For:
- Mint Mark Location: Find the “D” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse side.
- Condition Matters: Even worn examples hold value, but uncirculated pieces command the highest prices.
The 1896-S Barber Quarter
The Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, was minted from 1892 to 1916. The 1896-S issue is one of the rarest and most desirable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Liberty Head (obverse) |
| Mint | San Francisco (S) |
| Mintage | 188,039 (low production) |
| Value | Over $10,000 (in high grades) |
Why It’s Valuable: Only 188,039 of these quarters were produced at the San Francisco Mint, and few survive in good condition. High-grade specimens can easily exceed $10,000.
What to Look For:
- Mint Mark Location: Look for the “S” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition Check: Even moderately worn examples retain significant value.
The 1950-D Doubled Die Quarter
Minting errors often drive up coin values, and the 1950-D Washington quarter with a doubled die reverse is no exception.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Washington portrait |
| Error | Doubled die (reverse) |
| Mint | Denver (D) |
| Value | Over $10,000 (in high grades) |
Why It’s Valuable: The doubling on the reverse is visible without magnification, making it a favorite among collectors. High-grade examples command over $10,000.
What to Look For:
- Error Check: Look for doubling in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
- Sharp Doubling: Coins with distinct doubling are the most valuable.
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust quarter is one of the earliest quarters in American history and is prized for its design and rarity.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Lady Liberty (obverse) |
| Mintage | Extremely low |
| Value | Over $10,000 |
Why It’s Valuable: With a very limited mintage, surviving examples of the 1804 Draped Bust quarter are incredibly rare and often sell for over $10,000.
What to Look For:
- Design Features: Look for Lady Liberty on the obverse and the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition Matters: Any surviving example holds value, but well-preserved coins are especially desirable.
Conclusion
Valuable quarters often hide in plain sight. Whether it’s a Bicentennial quarter struck on silver, a rare 1932-D Washington quarter, or a historic 1804 Draped Bust, these coins prove that even small change can hold immense value. By carefully inspecting your collection or everyday pocket change, you might just uncover a treasure worth thousands.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the coin’s edge—silver quarters have a solid silver edge, while clad quarters reveal a copper stripe.
What is the rarest Washington quarter?
The 1932-D and 1932-S quarters are the rarest, with low mintages making them highly valuable.
Are all 1976 Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No, most are common. Only those struck on silver planchets or in mint-condition are worth substantial amounts.
What is a doubled die quarter?
A doubled die occurs when the coin’s design is accidentally struck twice, creating a doubled image, which can make the coin valuable.
Should I clean my old quarters?
No—cleaning coins can significantly reduce their value. Always keep them in their original condition.