Coin collecting offers the thrill of discovering hidden treasures, and some quarters are worth more than most people can imagine. Recently, a rare Bicentennial Quarter fetched almost $30 million, showcasing the immense value that certain quarters can hold. But this is just the beginning. In this list, we’ll look into seven more quarters that have crossed the $10 million mark, detailing their unique features, rarity, and historical significance.
Washington
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable in U.S. coinage history. With only 436,800 pieces minted, its scarcity makes it a prized possession for collectors. The ‘D’ mintmark, signifying its origin at the Denver Mint, adds further to its rarity. But what truly elevates its value is the historical context—it was minted to honor the 200th birthday of George Washington. In perfect condition, this quarter can be worth over $10 million, a testament to its scarcity and historical importance.
Draped Bust
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a relic from the early days of the United States Mint. With only 6,146 coins minted, it’s incredibly rare. The coin features a distinctive small eagle on its reverse side, a design that was only used for two years. Collectors particularly value this coin not only for its rarity but also for its significance as one of the first quarter designs ever produced. In top condition, this early American quarter is valued at over $10 million, making it a true gem in numismatic circles.
Overdate
The 1823/2 Overdate Quarter is a fascinating piece of American coinage. Its value lies in a unique minting error—where the ‘3’ in the date was struck over a ‘2.’ This error occurred because the mint reused old dies to save costs, creating a highly coveted mistake. Only a few examples of this overdate quarter are known to exist, and in excellent condition, their value easily exceeds $10 million. The coin’s rarity, combined with the curious error, makes it a top target for collectors.
Proof Liberty Seated
The 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter is a prime example of rarity meeting exceptional craftsmanship. Proof coins, known for their high-quality strike and shine, were minted in limited numbers, making them highly sought after. The Liberty Seated design is celebrated for its beauty, and collectors are willing to pay a premium for a well-preserved proof version. A top-grade 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter can command a price of over $10 million, earning it a spot as one of the most valuable quarters in existence.
Liberty Seated
The 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter is one of the most mysterious coins ever minted. According to mint records, no quarters were officially produced by the San Francisco Mint in 1870, yet a few examples have been found. This anomaly gives the coin a legendary status among collectors. The historical intrigue surrounding the 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter, along with its extreme rarity, means that it is valued at over $10 million.
Standing Liberty
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is renowned not only for its striking design but also for its rarity. With a mintage of just over 52,000, it is one of the rarest 20th-century quarters. The coin’s design, which depicts Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch, was both praised and controversial at the time. Today, a well-preserved 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is valued at over $10 million, making it one of the most highly sought-after quarters in the coin-collecting world.
Washington Proof
Finally, the 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter is a one-of-a-kind mint error. This bizarre accident occurred when a 1941 Canadian quarter was mistakenly used to strike a U.S. proof quarter in 1970. As a result, this coin is entirely unique, which drives its value well above $10 million. Its unusual history and extreme rarity make it a true treasure for collectors who appreciate the strange and unexpected twists of minting errors.
These seven quarters demonstrate the thrilling world of coin collecting, where historical significance, rarity, and minting errors can turn an ordinary coin into a multimillion-dollar treasure.
FAQs
Why is the 1932-D Washington Quarter so valuable?
Its limited mintage and historical significance boost its worth.
What’s special about the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter?
It’s one of the first U.S. quarters with only 6,146 minted.
Why is the 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter considered mysterious?
No official record exists of its minting, making it a rare find.
What is an overdate error in coins?
It’s when a new date is stamped over a previous year, like in the 1823/2 Quarter.
How did the 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter get struck on a Canadian coin?
A mint error led to this rare combination, creating a unique collector’s item.
