Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $1.35M: The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is a cherished piece of American numismatic history, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. While most Bicentennial quarters are only worth their face value, a select few have gained legendary status among collectors. Recently, a rare silver Bicentennial quarter sold for an astounding $1.35 million. Here’s a closer look at this remarkable coin and six other quarters that have fetched over $250,000 due to their unique characteristics and historical value.
The Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial quarter is instantly recognizable for its design featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dual date “1776–1976” on the obverse. While most of these quarters were struck in copper-nickel clad, a rare version was minted on a 90% silver planchet intended for proof sets.
Why It’s Worth Millions
This silver Bicentennial quarter owes its exceptional value to a minting error that allowed it to enter general circulation instead of being preserved in collector sets. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, has made it one of the most coveted coins among collectors.
How to Spot It
Silver Bicentennial quarters are heavier than their clad counterparts. Look at the coin’s edge for a solid silver appearance instead of the copper stripe seen on standard quarters.
Six Other Quarters Worth Over $250,000
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D quarter is a key date in the Washington quarter series, as the Denver Mint produced only 436,800 of these coins.
Why It’s Valuable
Its low mintage makes it extremely rare, particularly in near-mint condition, where values can exceed $250,000.
What to Look For
The reverse features a “D” mint mark beneath the eagle. Even circulated coins are worth significantly more than face value, but uncirculated examples are the true treasures.
2. 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Minted at the Carson City Mint, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is a favorite among seasoned collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 8,340 of these coins were produced, and many were lost or melted over time. High-grade examples can sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
The “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse identifies this rare piece. Counterfeits are common, so professional authentication is advised.
3. 1901-S Barber Quarter
Known as the rarest Barber quarter, the 1901-S was minted in San Francisco with a mintage of just 72,664 coins.
Why It’s Valuable
Fewer than 1,000 examples are believed to survive today, making this coin a highly sought-after rarity. Uncirculated specimens often fetch over $250,000.
What to Look For
The “S” mint mark on the reverse beneath the eagle is the key identifier. Even worn examples are valuable due to their scarcity.
4. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
This quarter is famous for its overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable
The combination of a rare minting error and a low number of surviving examples makes this coin worth over $300,000 in good condition.
What to Look For
Inspect the date closely for signs of the underlying “2.” Use a magnifying glass or have the coin professionally graded to confirm authenticity.
5. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter holds historical significance as the first quarter ever minted in the United States, with a mintage of only 6,146 coins.
Why It’s Valuable
Its rarity and historical importance make it one of the most sought-after U.S. coins. High-grade examples frequently sell for over $250,000.
What to Look For
The obverse depicts Lady Liberty, while the reverse features a small eagle. Even lower-grade coins are highly valuable due to their scarcity.
6. 1871-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Another Carson City rarity, the 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter is prized for its low production numbers.
Why It’s Valuable
With just 10,890 minted, this quarter is one of the rarest produced at the Carson City Mint. Well-preserved examples can exceed $250,000 in value.
What to Look For
Look for the “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle on the reverse. Carson City coins are always in high demand among collectors.
Final Thoughts
Rare quarters like the silver Bicentennial quarter and others on this list are highly sought after for their unique backstories, minting errors, or limited production runs. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, these coins are worth keeping an eye out for—many hold life-changing value.