Coin collecting offers more than just historical beauty—it’s the thrill of potentially discovering a rare piece that can be worth thousands. Among these treasures, certain quarters stand out for their unique stories, rarity, and value, with the rare Bicentennial Quarter recently fetching nearly $49,000 at auction. But that’s not all; there are nine more quarters valued over $11,000 each that every collector should know about. Let’s cut into the details of these coins and what makes each one a collector’s dream.
Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence, typically holds only face value. However, a rare variant of this coin has fetched nearly $49,000 due to its uncirculated, pristine condition and unique minting details. This specific quarter captures the attention of collectors not just for its historical significance but also for its rarity, making it a prized piece in the coin collecting world.
1932-S Washington
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a top prize for collectors due to its low mintage of just 408,000 coins, one of the smallest runs in 20th-century U.S. quarters. In perfect condition, this quarter’s value can exceed $11,000, especially since it represents the inaugural year of the Washington quarter series, which adds to its prestige and demand.
1932-D Washington
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is a sibling of the 1932-S and shares its low-mintage appeal, though it was minted in Denver. Collectors highly prize this quarter in pristine condition, with auction values reaching over $11,000. Its scarcity and historical importance in the Washington quarter series make it one of the most sought-after pieces in American numismatics.
1916 Standing Liberty
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, famous for its beautiful design, had a very limited release with just over 52,000 coins minted. This scarcity makes it a rare and valued find, especially in well-preserved condition, with auction prices often climbing above $11,000. For collectors, this quarter combines aesthetic appeal with rarity, making it a true prize.
1896-S Barber
The 1896-S Barber Quarter, minted in San Francisco with a mintage of under 190,000, is another rare coin that can exceed $11,000 in fine condition. This coin appeals to both collectors of the Barber series and those interested in turn-of-the-century coinage, where age and rarity enhance its desirability.
1901-S Barber
Known as the “King of Barber Quarters,” the 1901-S has a mintage of only 72,664, placing it among the rarest in the Barber quarter series. This scarcity drives its high value, and even coins in lower grades can sell for over $11,000. For collectors, it is a premier piece, especially because of its reputation as one of the most valuable quarters.
1913-S Barber
Another standout from the Barber series, the 1913-S Barber Quarter has a mintage of just 40,000, making it a rarity even among other low-mintage quarters. Collectors treasure this coin for its scarcity, with well-preserved examples surpassing $11,000. Its combination of limited availability and historical appeal cements its place in any top collection.
1823/2 Capped Bust
The 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter is an overdate coin, featuring an error where the date was stamped over an existing number. This unique feature makes it highly sought after by collectors, and well-preserved examples often bring in more than $11,000. The overdate error gives it an added layer of appeal as a historical curiosity.
1796 Draped Bust
As the very first quarter issued by the U.S. Mint, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a piece of early American history. Its mintage was only 6,146, making it extremely rare and valuable to collectors. In higher grades, this coin can easily command prices over $11,000, with its age and historical significance adding to its allure.
1870-CC Liberty Seated
Minted at the Carson City Mint, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is another legendary piece. Known for its low mintage, this quarter often exceeds $11,000 in value. The “CC” mintmark is particularly appealing to collectors, and the coin’s scarcity and Old West connection make it a unique find in American numismatics.
These ten quarters showcase the captivating stories and historical significance that make coin collecting an exciting and potentially profitable pursuit. From minting errors to limited releases, these coins stand as symbols of America’s monetary history. For anyone with an eye for history and value, checking your quarters could reveal a hidden treasure.
FAQs
What is the value of the rare Bicentennial Quarter?
A rare variant of the Bicentennial Quarter has fetched nearly $49,000 due to its unique condition and characteristics.
Why is the 1932-S Washington Quarter valuable?
The 1932-S Washington Quarter is rare due to its low mintage of 408,000 and often exceeds $11,000 in value.
What makes the 1901-S Barber Quarter valuable?
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is scarce with a mintage of 72,664, often valued over $11,000.
What is unique about the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter?
It’s an overdate error coin, with the ‘2’ stamped over another ‘2’, making it highly collectible.
How much is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter worth?
As the first U.S. quarter, it can command prices over $11,000 due to its rarity and history.
