Rare Bicentennial Quarter Fetches $201K: Coin collecting offers more than a hobby; it’s a gateway to history, artistry, and the excitement of discovering hidden treasures. While most coins are valued at face value, certain quarters have skyrocketed in worth due to their rarity and historical importance. Here’s a closer look at seven extraordinary quarters that have captivated collectors and fetched impressive auction prices.
Bicentennial Quarter: A Patriotic Treasure
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is typically a common find, but a rare 40% silver version recently sold for an astounding $201,000. Unlike standard copper-nickel coins, these silver editions were issued as part of a special mint set for collectors. Its impeccable condition, verified by professional grading, and its historic significance celebrating America’s 200th anniversary, contributed to its remarkable value. This extraordinary sale underscores how even well-known coins can become prized possessions under unique circumstances.
1932-S Washington Quarter: A Collector’s Jewel
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is one of the most coveted coins among numismatists. With just 408,000 coins minted, it holds a special place in the Washington Quarter series. High-grade specimens can easily exceed $25,000 at auction. The “S” mint mark, indicating its production in San Francisco, adds further allure, making it a must-have for those completing Washington Quarter collections.
1943 Copper Quarter: A Wartime Rarity
During World War II, copper was reserved for military needs, leading to silver being used for 1943 quarters. However, a small number of copper quarters were mistakenly struck, creating one of the rarest error coins in U.S. history. Pristine examples of this wartime mistake can fetch more than $25,000, making it a prized piece of numismatic history.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter: A Minting Marvel
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter showcases the charm of minting errors. This coin features a Denver (“D”) mint mark overstruck on a San Francisco (“S”) mint mark, a rarity that has turned it into a collector’s dream. Coins in excellent condition regularly sell for over $25,000, reflecting the fascination with these production anomalies.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter: A Striking Error
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter is renowned for its visually striking minting error. A misaligned die resulted in a doubling effect, most apparent in the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Coins displaying this distinct error, particularly in mint condition, can easily command prices over $25,000, making it a standout example of minting imperfections.
1970-S Small Date Quarter: A Subtle Rarity
The 1970-S Small Date Quarter is a testament to the significance of subtle variations in coin collecting. This rare coin features a slight reduction in the size of the date, a detail that has propelled its value. High-grade examples have exceeded $25,000, proving that even the smallest differences can yield big returns for collectors with a keen eye.
1983-P Washington Quarter: A Modern Treasure
Modern coins can also achieve significant value, as demonstrated by the 1983-P Washington Quarter. Its worth stems from its rarity in mint condition, as many were not preserved by collectors. An uncirculated example can surpass $25,000, highlighting the potential of modern coins to become prized collectibles.
Summary of Rare Quarters and Their Values
Quarter | Estimated Value |
---|---|
1976 Bicentennial Quarter | $201,000 |
1932-S Washington Quarter | $25,000+ |
1943 Copper Quarter | $25,000+ |
1950-D/S Overmintmark | $25,000+ |
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse | $25,000+ |
1970-S Small Date Quarter | $25,000+ |
1983-P Washington Quarter | $25,000+ |
These remarkable coins illustrate the value of rarity, minting errors, and historical significance in numismatics. Whether it’s a silver Bicentennial Quarter or a 1983 modern rarity, each piece tells a story of America’s past while offering a glimpse into the captivating world of coin collecting.