Every day, millions of coins and notes circulate in the United States. While most of these are only worth their face value, there are some special specimens that can be sold to collectors for thousands of dollars. According to the US First Exchange portal, the value of a coin or note depends on three main factors: its rarity, the condition/grade of the coin or note, and market conditions, i.e. demand.
The combination of these three factors determines how collectible a coin or note will be and how much more valuable it can be than its face value. Right now there is a 25-cent coin in the United States that can be worth thousands of dollars. Let’s find out why.
The 25-cent coin is worth millions
A rare version of the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter can be worth thousands of dollars due to some special flaws. The United States minted it for the first time in 1975 to commemorate US independence bicentennial. This coin was minted in 1975 and 1976 and bears dual dates of 1776-1976.
When the Bicentennial coin was released, no coin in this series bore only the date 1975 or 1976. Another feature was that the reverse of this coin depicted a colonial drummer instead of Washington’s eagle reverse during the 1975 and 1976 mintings.
How to Identify This Coin: Features of the 25-Cent Coin
This coin has a bust of President George Washington on the front. On the back, a colonial drummer facing left and a triumph torch encircled by thirteen stars are depicted.
- Words on Coin (Obverse): LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, 1776-1976
- Words on Coin (Reverse): UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, QUARTER DOLLAR
- Mint together with Mint Mark: San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia
Coin Worth More Than Its Real Value
In addition to these common features, the version that is worth thousands of dollars has a double-struck error on the front. This error took place during the minting process, where the dies that were used to stamp coin designs did not properly align with one another making a double image of the design present.
This nearly unique coin is highly prized by collectors for its one-of-a-kind distinction, as well as its place in the history of the Bicentennial celebration. While several million Bicentennial coins were struck, this double-struck version can still pull in up to $13,500.
Read More: 3 Incredible Bicentennial Quarters: A Collector’s Dream Worth $25,000,000
Keep in mind, though, that some unscrupulous websites are claiming that these coins could be worth up to $49 million, which is just an attempt to attract viewers. We won’t link to them, but here’s an explanation and rebuttal.
While they’re not worth $49 million, it’s still wise to check out those 25-cent coins lying around at home, because you might have a rare coin in your possession!
FAQ
1. Why is this 25-cent coin worth $10,000?
Rare minting errors, low mintage numbers, or uncirculated grades make this quarter valuable to collectors.
2. Can I tell whether my 25-cent coin is worth $10,000?
Minting faults, double die obverses, uncommon dates, and near-perfect coins are worth looking for. A competent coin grader can verify value.
3. Are all Bicentennial quarters $10,000?
Not all Bicentennial quarters are $10,000. Only rare examples with minting flaws or excellent grades can sell for so much.
4. How can I assess my 25-cent coin?
PCGS and NGC can assess your coin. They will appraise the coin based on its condition, rarity, and unique features.
5. Where can I sell a $10,000 rare 25-cent coin?
Always use trusted coin dealers, auction houses, or internet platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions to sell your rare coin for a reasonable price.