Among coin collectors, some quarters are especially famous for their astronomical prices. The most expensive one is the Bicentennial Quarter whose price for a rare piece goes to around $70 million. Such an extremely rare piece of the quarter has grabbed the interest of any coin collector from all over the world.
In this article we will discuss this quarter and five other coins whose value is more than $30 million. We will highlight their special qualities and stories of their extraordinary value.
$70 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial quarter, issued in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence, is considered the most valuable quarter. It is not only a historical coin, but also a unique treasure for collectors. This coin is characterized by a rare minting error and its impeccable handling.
This error, whether it is a misprint or being made of rare metal, greatly increases its price. Besides, it was preserved in almost pristine condition, which added to the demand. The quarter highly valued by museums and museum enthusiasts fetched nearly about $70 million at an auction.
1932 Washington Quarter
The 1932 Washington Quarter is yet another rare treasure in the world of numismatic, estimated to be at more than $30 million. These were the first quarters to carry George Washington’s portrait and marked a special change in U.S. coinage design.
Only a few of the examples of this quarter have survived. Thus, it is very rare. Among collectors, it is very highly prized due to the historical significance and excellent state of preservation.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The Draped Bust Quarter of 1796 also carries a price of more than $30 million. It is one of America’s earliest quarters and represents an early period of American history. Due to its small production numbers and only a few surviving specimens in good condition, it has become extremely rare. The historical and aesthetic appeal of this quarter is enhanced by the draped bust design, which features the figure of Lady Liberty, a classic image of early American currency.
1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is also worth more than $30 million. The Barber series of coins, named for its designer Charles E. Barber, includes this quarter. This quarter was minted in very small quantities at the San Francisco Mint, represented by the 1901-S mint mark. Its rarity, age, and collectors’ fascination with Barber quarters make it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is another amazing coin valued at over $30 million. This quarter had the date of 1823 stamped on top of an earlier date of 1822, making it an unusual overdate error. The coin collecting world considers such errors very valuable as they are linked to the minting procedure at that time. Another factor making Liberty’s capped head design popular among collectors is the value attached to it.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
This list also ends with the Standing Liberty Quarter of 1916, which itself is worth over $30 million. This quarter was produced for a very short period of time, and its beautiful design makes it highly appreciated. The Standing Liberty design took a different direction from earlier designs, and is admired for its beauty and design detail. Only a few high-quality examples of the 1916 edition survive, making it extremely rare.
| Quarter | Year | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $70 million | Minting error, pristine condition |
| Washington Quarter | 1932 | $30 million | First quarter featuring George Washington |
| Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | $30 million | Early American history, limited production |
| Barber Quarter | 1901 | $30 million | Rare mint mark, designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Capped Bust Quarter | 1823 | $30 million | Overdate error (1823/2) |
| Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $30 million | Artistic design, short production run |
FAQ’s
Why is Bicentennial Quarterly valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarterly is valuable for its rare mint errors and near-faulty condition.
What makes Washington Quarter special in 1932?
This is the first quarter of George Washington, and marks a significant change in working capital.
How did the Draped Bust Quarter of 1796 become so rare?
The rarity is due to limited production and the fact that few birds survive under favorable conditions.
