Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at $1.35M: Coin collecting has long been a fascinating hobby, and rare quarters are among the most sought-after treasures. Recently, the Bicentennial quarter, minted in 1976, captured headlines when one sold for an incredible $1.35 million. This wasn’t just any quarter—it was a rare version struck on silver planchets, making it one of the most valuable coins ever discovered.
In this article, we’ll explore why the Bicentennial quarter is so extraordinary and provide details about six other highly valuable quarters that have commanded prices exceeding $250,000. You’ll also learn how to identify these treasures and what makes them stand out in the world of numismatics.
Overview of Rare Quarters and Their Values
| Coin Name | Year/Mint | Estimated Value | Key Feature | Reason for Value |
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 (Silver) | $1.35 million | Solid silver edge, heavier weight | Minted on rare silver planchets by mistake |
| Washington Quarter | 1932-D | Over $250,000 | “D” mint mark below the eagle | Extremely low mintage |
| Liberty Seated Quarter | 1870-CC | Over $250,000 | “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle | First Carson City mint production, rare |
| Barber Quarter | 1901-S | Over $250,000 | “S” mint mark, minimal wear | Limited surviving specimens in top condition |
| Capped Bust Quarter | 1823/2 | Over $300,000 | “3” struck over “2” (overdate error) | Rare error coin with historical significance |
| Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Over $250,000 | Lady Liberty design with small eagle | First quarter minted in the U.S., very scarce |
| Liberty Seated Quarter | 1871-CC | Over $250,000 | “CC” mint mark under eagle | Low mintage, historical rarity |
What Makes the Bicentennial Quarter So Valuable?
The Bicentennial quarter was introduced in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dual dates “1776–1976” on the obverse, this quarter became a collector’s favorite. While most were copper-nickel clad, a few were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets reserved for proof sets.
These rare silver coins were accidentally released into circulation, making them highly desirable among collectors. Their historical relevance, coupled with the rarity of the silver variant, has driven prices sky-high. One such coin sold for an astonishing $1.35 million at auction.
How to Identify the Silver Bicentennial Quarter:
- Edge: Check for a solid silver edge with no copper stripe.
- Weight: Silver coins are slightly heavier than their copper-nickel counterparts.
Six More Quarters Worth Over $250,000
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington quarter is a cornerstone for collectors. Released to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday, only 436,800 were minted in Denver, making it one of the rarest in the series.
Key Features to Identify:
- Look for the “D” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse.
- Coins with minimal wear fetch the highest prices.
2. 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
As the first quarter minted in Carson City, the 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is steeped in historical value. Its mintage was a mere 8,340 coins, and many were lost, melted, or heavily circulated.
Key Features to Identify:
- The “CC” mint mark is located beneath the eagle.
- Authenticity is critical—counterfeits are common, so professional grading is essential.
3. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber quarter, designed by Charles Barber, is the rarest in the Barber series. Out of a mintage of 72,664 coins, fewer than 1,000 are believed to exist today.
Key Features to Identify:
- Look for the “S” mint mark on the reverse side.
- High-grade coins in near-mint condition are the most valuable.
4. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is famous for its overdate error, where the “3” in the date was struck over a “2.” This error makes it one of the rarest and most intriguing U.S. quarters.
Key Features to Identify:
- The overdate error can be seen under magnification, with remnants of the “2” beneath the “3.”
- Verification by a professional grading service is recommended.
5. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter is historically significant as the first quarter ever minted in the United States. Its low mintage of just 6,146 coins makes it a centerpiece for any collection.
Key Features to Identify:
- Features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse.
- Even heavily worn examples are worth over $250,000.
6. 1871-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
Another Carson City rarity, the 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter, had a minuscule mintage of 10,890 coins. Surviving examples in good condition are extremely valuable.
Key Features to Identify:
- Check for the “CC” mint mark beneath the eagle.
- Well-preserved coins command the highest prices.
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial quarter so valuable?
Its rarity stems from being mistakenly struck on silver planchets, coupled with its historical significance.
How do I identify a 1932-D Washington quarter?
Look for the “D” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse side. Near-perfect condition boosts its value significantly.
What is unique about the 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter?
The overdate error, where a “3” was struck over a “2,” makes it highly desirable to collectors.
Why are Carson City quarters so valuable?
Carson City quarters are prized for their low mintages and rich historical background.
What makes the 1796 Draped Bust quarter special?
It was the first quarter minted in the U.S., with an exceptionally low mintage of just 6,146 coins.
Final Thoughts
Collecting rare quarters isn’t just about owning valuable coins—it’s about uncovering pieces of history. The Bicentennial quarter valued at $1.35 million and others like the 1796 Draped Bust quarter tell unique stories that connect us to America’s past.
If you’ve enjoyed this guide, let us know in the comments or share this with fellow collectors. Start exploring your pocket change and collections—you never know if you might hold a piece of history worth a fortune!
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