In the world of coin collecting, a quarter could be worth far more than its face value. One standout example is a rare Bicentennial quarter recently valued at nearly $80,000. This remarkable coin has reignited interest in other quarters that might also hold significant value. In this article, we look into the details of this exceptional Bicentennial quarter and cut into seven other U.S. quarters that have fetched impressive prices at auction.
Rare Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. While millions of these quarters were produced, a few rare examples stand out due to their unique characteristics. The 1976-S Bicentennial quarter, struck in 40% silver, is particularly valuable.
One such coin, graded MS69 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), was recently valued at nearly $80,000. This price is attributed to its mint state condition, sharp details, and immaculate luster, which make it highly desirable to collectors. Its historical significance and the striking colonial drummer design on the reverse further enhance its value.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty quarter is a numismatic treasure. Designed by Hermon A. MacNeil, this coin replaced the Barber quarter and depicts Lady Liberty standing between two pedestals, holding an olive branch and shield. Only 52,000 were minted, making it one of the rarest U.S. quarters.
The scarcity of this coin, combined with its intricate design and historical context, makes it highly sought after. High-grade examples of the 1916 Standing Liberty quarter often fetch tens of thousands of dollars, reflecting its importance in American coinage history.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter holds special significance as the first year of issue in the Washington quarter series, which was created to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Minted in Denver with a low mintage of only 436,800 coins, this quarter is highly valued by collectors.
Well-preserved examples, especially those in higher grades, can reach upwards of $10,000. The combination of low mintage and the historical importance of this first-year issue contributes to its high value.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Like its Denver-minted counterpart, the 1932-S Washington quarter is highly prized. Produced at the San Francisco Mint with an even lower mintage of just 408,000 coins, this coin is another coveted piece from the inaugural year of the Washington quarter series.
High-grade specimens, especially those with strong strike details and minimal wear, can fetch several thousand dollars at auction. The rarity and significance of the 1932-S make it a key target for collectors of U.S. quarters.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter
The 1950-D/S Washington quarter is a fascinating coin due to its mintmark error. This quarter shows a āDā mintmark for Denver, but upon closer inspection, an āSā mintmark from the San Francisco Mint is visible underneath. This occurred when dies intended for San Francisco were reused in Denver, creating the “D over S” mintmark error.
Collectors are drawn to error coins like the 1950-D/S, and high-grade examples with clear over-mintmarks can fetch several thousand dollars, highlighting the appeal of minting anomalies.
1937 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter
The 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Washington quarter features a notable minting error where the obverse design, including the date, lettering, and portrait of Washington, appears doubled. This error occurred during the die-making process, making the coin a rare and valuable find for collectors.
Depending on the clarity of the doubling and the coin’s overall condition, these coins can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The 1937 Doubled Die Obverse quarter is a prime example of how minting errors can add immense value to a coin.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Washington Quarter
Another iconic error coin is the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Washington quarter. Like the 1937 version, this quarter features dramatic doubling on the obverse, affecting the date and Washingtonās profile. The 1955 doubled die error is one of the most well-known in U.S. coinage and is highly sought after by collectors.
High-grade examples of this coin, especially those with prominent doubling, can command substantial prices. Values can vary widely, but the most pristine specimens often sell for several thousand dollars, making the 1955 Doubled Die quarter a standout piece in any collection.
1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
The 1999 Delaware Spitting Horse quarter is a modern error coin that has gained popularity for its quirky die crack error. This error appears on the reverse, creating the illusion that the horse on the Delaware state quarter is āspitting.ā
While not as historically significant as other coins on this list, the novelty of the error has made this quarter a favorite among collectors. Depending on the visibility of the die crack and the coinās condition, values can range from a few dollars to several hundred. The 1999 Spitting Horse quarter highlights the enduring appeal of modern error coins.
| Coin | Mintage | Key Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter | Limited | 40% silver, MS69 grade | Nearly $80,000 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 52,000 | First year of issue | Tens of thousands |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 436,800 | First year of Washington quarters | Over $10,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 408,000 | Rare first-year issue | Several thousand dollars |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | Limited | D over S mintmark error | Several thousand dollars |
| 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter | Limited | Obvious doubling on obverse | Several thousand dollars |
| 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter | Limited | Famous doubling error | Several thousand dollars |
| 1999 Delaware Spitting Horse | Common, with error | Die crack creates spitting effect | Up to several hundred dollars |
The world of coin collecting is filled with hidden treasures, and U.S. quarters are no exception. From the rare $80,000 Bicentennial quarter to the elusive Standing Liberty and Washington quarters, these coins represent more than just currencyāthey are pieces of history. Whether due to minting errors, low mintage, or unique designs, each quarter tells its own story and can hold immense value. For collectors, the hunt for these valuable quarters is as exciting as the coins themselves.
FAQs
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
Its 40% silver composition and near-perfect MS69 condition make it highly sought after.
Why is the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter rare?
It had a low mintage of only 52,000, making it one of the rarest quarters.
What is the significance of the 1932-D Washington Quarter?
It marks the first year of the Washington quarter series, with a low mintage from the Denver Mint.
What is a doubled die error on a quarter?
A doubled die error occurs when a coin’s design is accidentally struck twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect.
What is the “Spitting Horse” error on the 1999 Delaware Quarter?
A die crack error on the reverse makes it appear that the horse is “spitting,” adding value to the coin.
