Coin collecting is an interesting hobby that can transform a common discovery into a substantial monetary gain. Some of the most sought-after coins are error coins that have become extremely valuable because of minting mistakes, historical importance, and their rarity in circulation.
The Bicentennial Quarter is one such coin that has been worth almost $201,000. Six other coins are also worth over $25,000 each. This article delves into these precious coins and why they are so unique.
Coin collecting is an interesting hobby that offers a blend of history, art, and the thrill of discovering unexpected treasures. While most quarters are only worth their face value, some rare coins can sell for exorbitant prices at auction.
Some coins have special mistakes, limited mintage, or special materials, making them highly sought after among collectors. Here we look at seven such exceptional quarter coins that have sold for quite a large sum and may belong in your collection.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
One very surprising high-value coin was the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, which sold for $201,000. The U.S. Mint issued these quarters to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, but most were minted in the usual copper-nickel mix. However, a special edition that contained 40% silver was produced for collector sets.
This special quarter is valuable not only because of its silver content, but also because of its impeccable condition and grading. Coins that are certified as nearly perfect by professional grading services can sell for spectacular prices. This sale proves that even a modern quarter can become a small asset with a few of the right factors.
1932-S Washington Quarter

The 1932-S Washington quarter is an extremely popular coin from the Washington quarter series. Only 408,000 of it were minted, making it the lowest minted number of any regular Washington quarter, and it has become an important date for collectors.
The “S” mint mark means it was minted in San Francisco, which further adds to its appeal. High-quality, well-kept examples have achieved prices of over $25,000, and their value continues to rise. If you have such a quarter, especially if it is in good condition, you may have a true numismatic treasure.
1943 Copper Quarter
During World War II, the US Mint changed the material of the coins to save metals. In 1943, the quarters were supposed to be minted in silver, but some were mistakenly minted in copper, making them a huge rarity.
These copper quarters are considered some of the most significant mistake coins in US history. If you find a 1943 quarter and it sticks to a magnet, it means it is silver, but if it doesn’t, you may have a rare copper version. If it is in good condition, these coins can sell for over $25,000.
1950-D/S Over mintmark

Minting mistakes often make coins very attractive, and the 1950-D/S Over mintmark Quarter is a great example. In this case, the Denver (“D”) mint mark was mistakenly minted over the San Francisco (“S”) mint mark. This error makes the coin special and valuable to collectors.
A high-grade 1950-D/S quarter can bring over $25,000 at auction. The over mintmark errors illustrate how sometimes in coin production mistakes occur, creating collectible errors that appreciate over time
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse quarter is another interesting coin. This quarter has a doubling effect on the reverse side, especially in the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The doubling was due to a misaligned die, which caused an obvious change in the design.
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These doubled die quarters are collected for their unique visual appeal. If found in good condition, this quarter can sell for over $25,000. This doubling effect makes it a beloved asset to those who appreciate minting mistakes.
1970-S Small Date Quarter

The 1970-S Small Date Quarter is a rare variant in that the date is slightly smaller than other 1970 quarters. While the difference may appear minor, it makes a huge difference when determining the coin’s value.
Collectors will pay premium prices for well-circulated versions of this quarter. This coin sold over $25,000 for high-grade 1970-S Small Date Quarters. This coin reminds even the smallest design variations in making a great difference in the numismatic world.
1983-P Washington Quarter
The 1983-P Washington Quarter is a modern rarity that has unexpected value. The main reason for its high value is that only a small number of these were saved in good condition. Like the other quarters, most 1983-P quarters were heavily run, making uncirculated versions rare.
A surviving good condition 1983-P quarter can fetch prices over $25,000-proving that sometimes new coins themselves can be precious if they can be found well and are kept in good state.
A twenty-five-cent simple coin sells in thousands of dollars. Whether it’s a minting mistake, a limited number of mintages, or special materials, these rare quarters show that perhaps the coin you have could be a treasure. If you find one of these coins, you may be in possession of an asset.
How to Identify Valuable Coins in Your Collection
If you think you have a valuable coin, use the following steps to ascertain its value:
- Observe the Mint Mark: Coins with unusual mint marks like “D” or “S” may be more valuable.
- Check for Errors: Double die stamps, off-center strikes, or absent features can make a coin highly valuable.
- Check the Condition: Mint or uncirculated condition coins are more valuable.
- Examine with a Magnifying Glass: Look at fine details, such as the date, lettering, and edge, for distinguishing features.
- Have it Graded: Professional coin grading companies such as PCGS or NGC can certify and value your coin.
Where to Sell Rare Coins
In case you have a rare coin and wish to sell it, consider the below options:
- Auction Houses: Specialist auctions will maximize your return.
- Online Marketplaces: Sites such as eBay and Heritage Auctions target collectors.
- Coin Dealers: Approved dealers will provide professional grading and fair prices.
- Coin Shows & Conventions: You make personal contact with committed buyers when attending these conventions.
Final Thoughts
Rare coins like the Bicentennial Quarter with a value of almost $201K and the other six precious coins mentioned above show the potential that lies in ordinary pocket change. You may be an experienced collector or a beginner, but looking for these treasures can be very rewarding.
Make sure to examine your coins thoroughly, have them appraised, and sell them through proper channels to get the most out of them. You never know your next big discovery might be in your pocket right now!
FAQs:-
What makes a Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
Coins with errors, silver composition, or low mintage in uncirculated condition can fetch high prices among collectors.
What are the other six valuable coins worth over $25K?
They include rare dimes, quarters, and pennies with unique errors or historical significance.
How can I check if my quarter is rare?
Look for mint marks, errors, and silver content getting it professionally graded can confirm its worth.