The recent sale of a rare Bicentennial quarter for nearly $89,000 has reignited interest in valuable quarters, some of which can be worth over $19,000. In this article, we’ll look into the specifics of that rare Bicentennial quarter, along with nine other valuable quarters. Each has its own unique attributes that make it highly sought after by collectors.
Bicentennial Quarter
The rare Bicentennial quarter that sold for nearly $89,000 is an extraordinary example of minting history. Produced in 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, the Bicentennial quarter stands out with its dual dates (1776-1976) and its reverse design, featuring a Colonial drummer.
What made this particular quarter so valuable was its minting on a silver planchet, an error since Bicentennial quarters were normally struck on copper-nickel planchets. This error coin, paired with its pristine condition, turned it into a rare and valuable collector’s item. Numismatists treasure such anomalies for their historical significance and rarity.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is highly valuable due to its low mintage of 436,800 coins. As part of the first year of Washington quarters, it holds historical significance. Collectors prize it for its rarity and uncirculated versions can sell for over $20,000 at auction. A strong strike and high-quality details increase the coin’s value, making it a cornerstone for Washington quarter collectors.
1932-S Washington Quarter
With an even lower mintage than the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington quarter had only 408,000 coins minted. This makes it one of the scarcest quarters in the series. Well-preserved examples, especially those with minimal wear, can fetch more than $20,000. The 1932-S is highly sought after by collectors who appreciate its rarity and its place in the early Washington quarter history.
1943-S Washington Quarter
The 1943-S Washington quarter was minted during World War II and has a relatively low mintage of 21.7 million. High-grade examples of this wartime coin, especially those with full mint luster, can command prices over $19,000. Collectors appreciate the historical context of coins minted during this pivotal time, making the 1943-S a valuable piece for numismatists.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter
The 1937 Washington quarter with a doubled die obverse error is one of the most interesting error coins. The doubling on the obverse makes this quarter unique and rare. Coins with this error, especially those in excellent condition, can sell for more than $19,000. Collectors love error coins for the added challenge they bring to their collections, and the 1937 doubled die obverse quarter is no exception.
1964-D Washington Quarter
The 1964-D Washington quarter holds historical significance as it marks the last year quarters were made with 90% silver. Though millions were minted, finding one in pristine condition can be difficult. High-grade examples, particularly those with strong strikes and full luster, can easily exceed $19,000. This coin represents the end of an era, making it a sought-after piece for collectors.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter is a rare minting anomaly, featuring a “D” mint mark struck over an “S” mint mark. Such over mintmark errors are valuable and can sell for more than $19,000, especially in high grades. The story behind its creation and the rarity of finding these coins in excellent condition make the 1950-D/S quarter a fascinating addition to any collection.
1941-S Washington Quarter
The 1941-S Washington quarter, minted during the early years of World War II, has a mintage of 16.08 million. While not as rare as other quarters, well-preserved examples are difficult to find. High-grade coins, particularly those with full luster and sharp details, can surpass $19,000. Collectors value this quarter for its historical context and rarity in top condition.
1965 Washington Quarter
The 1965 Washington quarter is notable for marking the transition from silver to copper-nickel composition. While most 1965 quarters are common, there are rare transitional error coins that were mistakenly struck on silver planchets. These error coins are extremely valuable, fetching more than $19,000. The 1965 silver transitional error is a highly sought-after coin because it represents a major shift in U.S. coinage history.
1955 Washington Quarter
The 1955 Washington quarter was minted in a year of relatively low production, with only 18.51 million coins produced. High-grade examples with strong strikes and minimal wear can exceed $19,000. The rarity of well-preserved 1955 quarters, combined with their mid-20th century origin, makes them highly prized by collectors.
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value | Error/Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Struck on silver planchet | $89,000 | Mint error |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage | $20,000+ | High-grade |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | Even lower mintage | $20,000+ | Well-preserved |
| 1943-S Washington Quarter | Wartime mintage | $19,000+ | High-grade |
| 1937 Doubled Die Obverse | Minting error | $19,000+ | Doubled die |
| 1964-D Washington Quarter | Last year of 90% silver | $19,000+ | High-grade |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | Over mintmark variety | $19,000+ | D/S mint mark |
| 1941-S Washington Quarter | Wartime coin | $19,000+ | Full luster |
| 1965 Silver Error | Struck on silver planchet | $19,000+ | Minting error |
| 1955 Washington Quarter | Low mintage | $19,000+ | High-grade |
From error coins to low-mintage pieces, each of these quarters holds immense value due to its rarity, condition, or unique history. Collectors prize these coins for the stories they tell and the challenges they present in completing collections. Whether a transitional error or a rare minting mistake, these quarters are truly treasures in the world of numismatics.
FAQs
What makes the $89K Bicentennial quarter valuable?
It was struck on a silver planchet, a minting error.
Why is the 1932-D Washington quarter valuable?
Its low mintage and historical significance add value.
What is a doubled die obverse error?
A minting mistake where the design appears doubled.
How much is a 1965 silver error quarter worth?
Over $19,000 if struck on a silver planchet.
Why are 1955 Washington quarters valuable?
They were minted in low quantities, and high-grade examples are rare.
