Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at Nearly $50 Million – 4 Others Worth Over $20 Million

Coin collecting is full of fascinating stories and rare finds that can transform a humble quarter into a multimillion-dollar treasure. While most quarters are worth just 25 cents, some rare variants have reached mind-boggling prices at auctions. One of the most remarkable examples is a rare Bicentennial Quarter valued at nearly $50 million. But it’s not alone—several other quarters have fetched over $20 million. Let’s investigate the top five quarters that have earned legendary status in the world of numismatics.

Bicentennial

At the pinnacle of coin collecting is a rare Bicentennial Quarter valued at nearly $50 million. This quarter, minted in 1975 and 1976, was produced to celebrate 200 years of American independence. The coin features an iconic design by Jack L. Ahr, with a drummer boy on the reverse. What makes this particular quarter so valuable is a minting error, which combined with its near-flawless condition, has skyrocketed its value. Its historical significance only adds to its appeal, making it a must-have for collectors and a unique piece of American history.

Washington

Valued at over $20 million, the 1932 Washington Quarter holds a special place in numismatic history. This coin was the first to feature the likeness of George Washington, replacing the Standing Liberty design. Its value comes from its rarity, particularly those with the “D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco) mint marks in uncirculated condition. Produced during the Great Depression, these quarters had limited mintage, making them a rare find today. Owning this quarter is like having a piece of both U.S. history and an iconic representation of its currency evolution.

Standing Liberty

The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is another standout, exceeding $20 million in value. Known for its beautiful, intricate design, the coin depicts Lady Liberty in a flowing gown, holding a shield and an olive branch. Its design was brief, replaced after a few years, making the 1916 version particularly rare. Due to its limited mintage and high demand, pristine examples of this coin fetch huge sums at auction. Its rarity, combined with its aesthetic appeal, places it among the most coveted quarters in the world.

Draped Bust

The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is not just a coin—it’s a piece of American history, valued at over $20 million. This quarter is one of the first ever minted by the U.S. Mint, featuring a portrait of Liberty with flowing hair on the front and a small eagle on the reverse. Its design was short-lived, which increases its rarity and allure. For collectors, owning a coin from 1796 is like holding a piece of the nation’s infancy in their hands. Its historical context and scarcity make it a prized addition to any collection.

Capped Bust

Rounding off the list is the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter, valued at over $20 million. This coin is famous for its overdate error, where the number ‘3’ in the year was stamped over a ‘2’. Early U.S. Mint practices frequently reused dies to save costs, leading to unique minting errors like this. The rarity of the 1823/2 quarter, combined with its error and historical significance, makes it a treasure for numismatists. Its value has only grown over time as collectors seek out these early examples of U.S. coinage.

These quarters aren’t just currency; they’re time capsules, offering a glimpse into America’s past. From minting errors to rare designs, each coin tells a story, making them not only valuable but also culturally significant. Coin collectors know that sometimes, the greatest treasures are hidden in plain sight.

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