The world of coin collecting is fascinating. Coins hold history and sometimes, significant value. Among the most exciting finds are rare quarters that can fetch thousands, or even tens of thousands, at auctions. One of the most notable is the Bicentennial Quarter, with rare versions worth nearly $40,000. But it’s not the only valuable quarter out there. Several other quarters have values exceeding $2,000 due to their rarity, errors, or historical significance. In this article, we’ll explore some of these rare coins, diving into what makes them so special.
Table of Contents
| Quarter | Mint Year | Mint Location | Mintage | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | San Francisco (No S Mark) | Limited Silver Strike | Colonial drummer design, struck in 40% silver | Up to $40,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Denver | 436,800 | First Washington quarter, low mintage | Over $2,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | San Francisco | 408,000 | Low mintage, part of the first Washington quarter series | Over $2,000 |
| 1943-S Washington Quarter | 1943 | San Francisco | Low production | Silver composition, minted during WWII | Over $2,000 |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter | 1950 | Denver over San Francisco | Error coin | Denver mint mark stamped over San Francisco mint mark | Over $2,000 |
| 1964-D Quarter with Doubled Die Reverse | 1964 | Denver | Common strike | Doubling of ‘E PLURIBUS UNUM’ and eagle’s feathers | Over $2,000 |
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is a special coin that commemorates the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence. What makes it unique is its design—a colonial drummer surrounded by 13 stars on the reverse side. While millions of these coins were minted, only a few were struck in 40% silver, intended mainly for collectors. These special editions are the ones collectors are interested in, and some of them can be worth nearly $40,000, especially if they are in pristine, uncirculated condition or have unique features like missing mint marks.
Why Is It So Valuable?
- Special Design: Colonial drummer design exclusive to the Bicentennial.
- Rarity: 40% silver strikes are rare, and no ‘S’ mint mark versions are even rarer.
- Condition: Uncirculated coins in perfect condition can fetch high prices.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is another valuable find. Minted in Denver, this quarter marks the beginning of the Washington quarter series, created to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. With only 436,800 quarters minted, it is one of the rarest Washington quarters in existence. Collectors love it for its historical significance and rarity.
Key Features:
- Low Mintage: Only 436,800 minted.
- Historical Significance: First of the Washington quarter series.
- Value: A coin in good condition can sell for more than $2,000, with the price rising for higher-grade examples.
1932-S Washington Quarte
Much like the 1932-D, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is a key date in the Washington quarter series. Minted in San Francisco, only 408,000 of these coins were produced. Its scarcity and the fact that collectors want it to complete their Washington quarter sets make it highly valuable. Depending on its condition, this quarter can easily sell for over $2,000.
Why Collectors Love It:
- Low Mintage: Only 408,000 minted, making it rarer than most.
- Key Date: Important for completing Washington quarter collections.
- High Value: The better the condition, the higher the price.
1943-S Washington Quarter
During World War II, quarters were made of silver, and the 1943-S Washington Quarter is one such example. While it was minted in San Francisco, the number produced was relatively low, especially compared to other years. This makes high-grade examples of the 1943-S quarter highly sought after by collectors, often fetching more than $2,000.
Interesting Facts:
- Silver Composition: Quarters were made of silver during this time.
- Low Production: Fewer minted compared to other years.
- Historical Context: Minted during World War II, adding historical value.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter is a collector’s dream. It’s an error coin where a Denver mint mark was stamped over a San Francisco mint mark. This mistake created a rare version of the coin that collectors seek. High-grade versions of this quarter can sell for over $2,000, and the price is expected to continue rising as more collectors seek it out.
Why Is This Coin Special?
- Mint Error: Denver mint mark stamped over a San Francisco mint mark.
- Rarity: Error coins are always in high demand.
- Increasing Value: Its value is steadily rising, especially in good condition.
1964-D Quarter with Doubled Die Reverse
The 1964-D Quarter with a Doubled Die Reverse is a classic example of a minting error. In this case, the die used to stamp the coin was doubled, leading to a noticeable doubling of the “E PLURIBUS UNUM” inscription and the eagle’s feathers on the reverse side. These errors make the coin highly valuable, with prices well over $2,000 for high-grade examples.
Why Collectors Want It:
- Doubled Die Error: Unique doubling of letters and design elements.
- Rarity: Only a few of these error coins exist in high grades.
- High Value: Prices can exceed $2,000, especially for coins in good condition.
Conclusion
Coin collecting is like a treasure hunt, and these rare quarters are the hidden gems. From the Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $40,000 to the various other quarters valued at over $2,000, each coin has its own story and historical significance. Collectors value these coins not just for their monetary worth but for the piece of history they represent. Whether you’re an experienced coin collector or a curious beginner, these rare quarters are worth keeping an eye out for. Who knows? You might have one sitting in your pocket right now!
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
A: Check if it was struck in 40% silver, has no ‘S’ mint mark, and is in excellent condition. These are rare collector’s editions and can be worth up to $40,000.
Q: What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
A: Its low mintage of 436,800 and its significance as the first Washington quarter make it highly sought after by collectors. Quarters in good condition can easily sell for over $2,000.
Q: Are all 1932 Washington Quarters valuable?
A: Not all are valuable, but both the 1932-D and 1932-S quarters, minted in Denver and San Francisco, respectively, are particularly rare due to low mintage. These coins in good condition can fetch over $2,000.
Q: Why is the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter worth so much?
A: This quarter has a minting error where the Denver mint mark was stamped over a San Francisco mint mark. Such error coins are rare, and in high-grade conditions, they can sell for over $2,000.
Q: What should I look for in a 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Quarter?
A: Look closely at the reverse side. If there’s noticeable doubling of the ‘E PLURIBUS UNUM’ inscription or the eagle’s feathers, it’s a valuable error coin. High-grade versions of this coin can sell for over $2,000.