Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at Nearly $420,000 – 7 Additional Coins Worth Over $11,000 Each

The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, minted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, is celebrated for its unique colonial drummer design and dual date “1776–1976.” While most of these quarters hold only sentimental or face value, a few rare specimens have achieved astonishing prices at auction, including one silver Bicentennial quarter that sold for nearly $420,000. Beyond that, several other rare U.S. quarters have been valued at over $11,000 due to their scarcity, historical importance, or minting errors.

Here’s an in-depth look at these fascinating coins and what makes them so valuable.

What Makes It Valuable?

This extraordinary Bicentennial quarter owes its value to its accidental minting on a 40% silver planchet intended for collector sets. Unlike standard copper-nickel clad quarters, this coin mistakenly entered circulation, making it exceptionally rare. Its pristine condition (graded MS68 or higher) further enhances its appeal to collectors.

How to Identify One:

To spot a silver Bicentennial quarter, check the coin’s edge. Unlike standard clad quarters, which have a copper stripe, silver quarters display a solid silver edge. Additionally, these coins are slightly heavier, and professional grading services can confirm their authenticity and condition.

1932-D Washington Quarter

The Washington quarter series debuted in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Among these, the 1932-D quarter is highly prized due to its low mintage.

• Why It’s Valuable: Only 436,800 coins were minted in Denver, making it one of the scarcest Washington quarters. High-grade examples can exceed $11,000.
• What to Look For: Check for the “D” mint mark on the reverse side beneath the eagle. Even circulated examples are valuable, but near-mint specimens fetch the highest prices.

1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter

Minted in Carson City, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is one of the rarest in its series.

• Why It’s Valuable: With a mintage of just 8,340 coins, surviving examples are exceedingly rare. In good condition, these quarters can sell for over $11,000, with higher grades commanding even more.
• What to Look For: Look for the “CC” mint mark under the eagle on the reverse. Authentication by a reputable grading service is essential.

1901-S Barber Quarter

The Barber quarter, minted from 1892 to 1916, includes the highly coveted 1901-S quarter.

• Why It’s Valuable: Only 72,664 coins were minted in San Francisco that year. High-grade examples can easily surpass $11,000, making this coin a key piece for Barber quarter enthusiasts.
• What to Look For: The “S” mint mark on the reverse beneath the eagle identifies this coin. Worn examples are valuable, but mint-condition coins are especially sought after.

1955 Washington Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse

The 1955 Washington quarter is famous for its doubled die obverse, a striking minting error that creates a doubled appearance in the design.

• Why It’s Valuable: This dramatic error makes the coin highly collectible. Well-preserved examples have sold for over $11,000.
• What to Look For: Inspect the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse for visible doubling.

1943 Washington Quarter with Overpolished Die Error

The 1943 Washington quarter features an “overpolished die” error, where parts of the design appear faint or missing.

• Why It’s Valuable: High-grade coins with this error are worth over $11,000. Their unique appearance appeals to collectors of error coins.
• What to Look For: Look for faint or missing details, especially in the “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscription.

1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter

The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is celebrated for its “overdate” error, where a “3” was struck over a “2” in the date.

• Why It’s Valuable: This early U.S. quarter is rare, and examples in good condition often exceed $11,000. Its age and unique error make it one of the most sought-after coins in American history.
• What to Look For: Examine the date for traces of the underlying “2” beneath the “3.” Magnification may be needed to confirm the error.

1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

The Standing Liberty quarter series began in 1916, and the inaugural year’s coins are exceptionally rare.

• Why It’s Valuable: With a low mintage and historical significance, 1916 Standing Liberty quarters are highly prized. High-grade examples can fetch over $11,000.
• What to Look For: The date “1916” and the absence of the stars beneath the eagle distinguish this early issue.

Why Collectors Value These Coins

Collectors are drawn to these quarters for their rarity, historical importance, and unique characteristics. Minting errors, low mintages, and high grades contribute significantly to their value. Coins like the $420,000 Bicentennial quarter and others on this list underscore the importance of careful inspection, grading, and authentication in determining a coin’s worth.

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