This Rare Bicentennial Quarter is Valued at Nearly $40,000 – 5 More Worth Over $120,000 Each

Coin collecting is a timeless hobby, filled with the allure of observing valuable treasures hidden in small pieces of currency. Quarters, in particular, have fascinated collectors for decades due to their variety, historical significance, and occasional minting errors. Some rare quarters are valued in the thousands, while others have exceeded six figures. In this article, we’ll look into six of the most valuable quarters, starting with a special Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $40,000 and five others that each exceed $120,000.

Bicentennial Quarter

The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976, was created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. These coins are unique for their dual date “1776-1976” and the special design featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse side. What makes some Bicentennial Quarters exceptionally valuable, however, is a rare minting error. During production, a few of these quarters were struck on silver planchets meant for proof coins, leading to a scarcity of these variants in circulation. When found in pristine, uncirculated condition, a Bicentennial Quarter with this error can command nearly $40,000 in the collectors’ market.

1916 Standing Liberty

The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world. Designed by sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil, this quarter features a striking image of Lady Liberty standing between two pedestals. What makes the 1916 version particularly valuable is its rarity and the controversial design showcasing a bare-breasted Liberty figure, which was changed in later issues. With only 52,000 minted, finding one in good condition is a challenge, making it worth well over $120,000. The combination of rarity, history, and exquisite design elevates this quarter to legendary status.

1796 Draped Bust

The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a prized piece of American history and one of the earliest quarters ever minted in the United States. Featuring a delicate depiction of Lady Liberty with flowing drapery, this coin represents the artistry of the early U.S. Mint. Only a limited number were struck in 1796, making it extremely rare today. It is estimated that only a few hundred of these coins remain in existence, and in top-grade condition, a 1796 Draped Bust Quarter can easily exceed $120,000. This quarter is a symbol of the young nation’s aspirations and is coveted by serious collectors.

1932-D Washington

The 1932-D Washington Quarter holds a special place in the Washington Quarter series as one of the rarest and most valuable editions. With a low mintage of just over 400,000 coins, it is considered a key date for collectors. The “D” mintmark, indicating it was produced at the Denver Mint, further distinguishes it from other quarters in the series. In high-grade condition, a 1932-D Washington Quarter can be valued at well over $120,000. Its scarcity and historical importance as the first year of the Washington Quarter series make it a cornerstone for any serious collection.

2004 Wisconsin State

The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is a modern rarity, known for a unique die variety called the “Extra Leaf.” This variety features an additional leaf on the ear of corn on the reverse side of the coin. This small but distinct error occurred during the minting process and was only observed after the coins were released into circulation. There are two versions of the “Extra Leaf” variety—one with the leaf curving upwards and another curving downwards. Both versions are highly sought after, and in pristine condition, the 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with this error can fetch over $120,000 at auction.

1932-S Washington

Another valuable coin from the first year of the Washington Quarter series is the 1932-S Washington Quarter. Similar to its Denver-minted counterpart, this quarter has a low mintage of just 408,000, making it one of the scarcest in the series. Collectors treasure this coin, especially in high grades, due to its historical significance and rarity. In excellent condition, a 1932-S Washington Quarter can easily exceed $120,000, making it a valuable addition to any collection focused on early U.S. coinage.

These six quarters highlight the fascinating world of numismatics, where age, design, and rarity combine to create extraordinary value. Whether it’s a Bicentennial Quarter struck on the wrong planchet or a rare 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, each coin tells a unique story and holds a special place in American history.

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