Quarters have long been a part of American coinage, but certain editions have become incredibly valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, and historical significance. Recently, a Bicentennial Quarter was sold for nearly $311,111, sparking renewed interest in rare quarters. In this article, we will look into this quarter and six others that are valued at more than $81,111 and cut into the fascinating stories behind their astronomical prices.
Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence, is already a special edition coin. However, the version that recently sold for $311,111 is an exceptionally rare 1976-S silver proof quarter, which was mistakenly struck on a silver planchet meant for a dollar coin. Graded as PR68 Deep Cameo by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), its pristine condition and the minting error made this coin incredibly valuable.
This error and high grade make the coin highly sought after, reflecting its unique place in both numismatic history and American heritage. For collectors, it’s not just the rarity of the mistake but the stunning condition of the coin that drove its high price.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is another rare and valuable coin, worth $89,125. As the first year of issue for the Washington quarter, this coin carries immense historical importance. It was minted in Denver with a very low mintage of only 436,800, which contributes significantly to its value.
The 1932-D is a key date for Washington quarters, and collectors covet well-preserved examples. Its value continues to rise due to both its historical relevance and the fact that high-grade specimens are incredibly rare.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most famous quarters in American numismatics. This coin, valued at $81,111, is sought after due to its short mintage and striking design. Created by sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil, the Standing Liberty Quarter debuted in 1916, replacing the Barber Quarter.
Only 52,000 of these coins were minted, making the 1916 edition particularly valuable. Collectors prize this coin for its beauty and rarity, and the Standing Liberty Quarter continues to be a significant piece of early 20th-century coinage.
1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is an iconic and historically significant coin. With a value of $120,000, this quarter represents a time when the U.S. Mint was still relatively new. Featuring a draped bust of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, this coin is highly regarded for its beautiful design.
Only 6,738 quarters were minted in 1804, making it one of the rarest early quarters. Well-preserved examples can fetch even higher prices, making this coin a treasure for serious collectors who are passionate about early American coinage.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is another early U.S. coin that holds incredible value. As the first year of issue for the Draped Bust series, it is worth $160,000 in high-grade condition. Only 6,146 of these coins were minted, making it exceedingly rare, especially in well-preserved states.
This coin’s design, historical significance, and rarity make it one of the most desirable quarters in the numismatic world. For collectors, owning a 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is akin to holding a piece of the country’s early financial history.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The 1932-S Washington Quarter, valued at $84,000, is another highly sought-after coin due to its low mintage and historical importance. Minted in San Francisco in the same year as the 1932-D, this quarter had an even lower mintage of only 408,000.
Like the 1932-D, this coin is essential for Washington quarter collectors. Its rarity, coupled with its role as a first-year issue, makes it incredibly valuable. Collectors who are lucky enough to find this coin in high grade can expect to pay a premium price for it.
| Coin | Year | Mint | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Silver Error) | 1976-S | San Francisco | $311,111 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Denver | $89,125 |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | Philadelphia | $81,111 |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | Philadelphia | $120,000 |
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Philadelphia | $160,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | San Francisco | $84,000 |
These seven rare quarters represent some of the most valuable and historically significant coins in American numismatics. Each coin’s high value is driven by factors such as rarity, minting errors, and historical context. For collectors, these coins are not just currency but precious artifacts that reflect important moments in American history.
FAQs
Why did the Bicentennial Quarter sell for $311,111?
It was mistakenly struck on a silver planchet, creating a unique error that, combined with its PR68 grade, made it highly valuable.
What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter so valuable?
Its low mintage and status as the first year of the Washington quarter series contribute to its high value.
How many 1916 Standing Liberty Quarters were minted?
Only 52,000 were produced, making it one of the rarest Standing Liberty quarters.
Why is the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter worth $120,000?
Its rarity, with only 6,738 minted, and its historical significance make it highly prized among collectors.
What makes the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter valuable?
As the first year of the Draped Bust series, and with only 6,146 minted, it is a rare and sought-after piece of American coinage.
