The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, minted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, is one of the most recognizable coins in circulation. Featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse and a dual date (1776–1976) on the obverse, this coin remains a favorite among collectors. While most Bicentennial quarters are only worth face value, a few rare varieties have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
One such rare Bicentennial quarter recently sold for nearly $300,000, proving that even a common-looking coin can hold incredible value under the right conditions. Let’s explore what makes these quarters valuable and look at four other rare U.S. quarters worth over $10,000.
The Bicentennial Quarter: Why Some Are Worth a Fortune
The Bicentennial quarter was struck in both copper-nickel clad and 40% silver compositions. While most were intended for general circulation, a small number of silver planchet error coins were mistakenly released, making them extremely rare and valuable.
Key Factors That Increase Value
- Silver Composition – Some Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets, meant only for collector sets.
- Minting Errors – Misstrikes, double dies, or off-metal strikes can make a quarter worth thousands.
- High-Grade Condition – Coins graded MS68 or higher can command premium prices.
What to Look For in a Rare Bicentennial Quarter
- Edge: Regular Bicentennial quarters have a visible copper stripe, while silver quarters have a solid silver edge.
- Weight: Silver Bicentennial quarters weigh 5.75 grams, compared to 5.67 grams for clad versions.
- Condition: Near-mint, proof, or high-grade versions are significantly more valuable.
Notable Bicentennial Quarter Sales
- Nearly $300,000 – A high-grade silver Bicentennial quarter recently sold for close to this amount.
- $40,000–$75,000 – Other high-grade silver Bicentennial quarters have sold for tens of thousands at auction.
Other Rare U.S. Quarters Worth Over $10,000
Beyond the Bicentennial quarter, several other U.S. quarters hold exceptional value due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors.
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter – Worth Over $10,000
The Washington quarter was introduced in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. While this coin became a standard part of U.S. currency, the 1932-D (Denver Mint) version is among the rarest.
Why It’s Valuable
- Only 436,800 were minted, making it one of the lowest-mintage Washington quarters.
- It’s the first-year issue of the Washington quarter series, increasing its collectibility.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: The “D” mint mark is located below the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition: Even circulated examples are valuable, but uncirculated ones can fetch over $10,000.
2. 1896-S Barber Quarter – Valued Over $10,000
The Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, was minted from 1892 to 1916. The 1896-S (San Francisco Mint) Barber quarter is one of the rarest in the series.
Why It’s Valuable
- Only 188,039 were minted in San Francisco, making it one of the lowest-mintage Barber quarters.
- Few have survived in high condition, making well-preserved examples extremely rare.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: Look for the “S” mint mark below the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition: Even worn examples have significant value, but uncirculated versions can exceed $10,000.
3. 1950-D Washington Quarter (Doubled Die Reverse) – Valued Over $10,000
The 1950-D Washington quarter is famous for its doubled die reverse, which causes a noticeable “shadow” effect on the lettering.
Why It’s Valuable
- Error coins like doubled die strikes are always sought after by collectors.
- The 1950-D doubled die reverse quarter is among the most valuable in the Washington quarter series.
What to Look For
- Doubling: Look for doubling on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the reverse.
- Certification: Professional grading can confirm authenticity and increase its value.
4. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter – Valued Over $10,000
The Draped Bust quarter, introduced in 1796, is among the oldest and rarest U.S. quarters. The 1804 Draped Bust quarter is particularly sought after.
Why It’s Valuable
- Very few were minted, making it a true numismatic treasure.
- Surviving examples are incredibly rare, even in worn condition.
What to Look For
- Design: Features Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
- Condition: Even well-worn versions sell for over $10,000, while high-grade examples command much more.
How to Determine If Your Quarter Is Valuable
If you have an old quarter, follow these steps to see if it could be worth thousands:
- Check the Mint Mark: Some mint locations (Denver, San Francisco, Carson City) produce rarer coins.
- Inspect the Edge: Silver quarters have a solid silver edge, while clad coins show a copper stripe.
- Look for Mint Errors: Misstrikes, double dies, or missing details can increase a coin’s worth.
- Grade the Coin: Professional grading by PCGS or NGC ensures authenticity and determines market value.
Where to Buy and Sell Rare Quarters
If you want to buy or sell valuable quarters, consider these options:
- Reputable Coin Dealers – Certified numismatic shops can verify authenticity.
- Online Marketplaces – Websites like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and Stack’s Bowers feature rare coin listings.
- Coin Shows & Auctions – Attending numismatic events can help you find rare coins.
Always verify authenticity before purchasing valuable coins to avoid counterfeits.
FAQs About Rare Quarters
Check the edge—a silver quarter has a solid silver edge, while a regular one has a copper stripe.
No, most are only worth face value. Only rare silver versions or minting errors are highly valuable.
In high condition, it can be worth over $10,000 due to its low mintage and rarity.
The doubled die error on the reverse makes it highly collectible and valuable.
You can sell it through online auctions, coin dealers, or grading services like PCGS or NGC.