US Coins

Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at $45 Million – Discover 4 More Worth Over $20,000

Published

2 days ago

February 19, 2025

Miley

Coin collecting often reveals hidden treasures within everyday currency. Among these, a particular 1976 Bicentennial Quarter has garnered attention with an estimated value of $45 million.

This article delves into the story behind this extraordinary coin and highlights four other U.S. quarters valued over $20,000.

The $45 Million Bicentennial Quarter

In 1976, to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, the U.S. Mint released the Bicentennial Quarter. While most of these quarters remain in regular circulation, one unique specimen stands out due to a rare double-strike error.

This minting mistake resulted in overlapping images, significantly enhancing the coin’s rarity and desirability among collectors.

The obverse features George Washington, while the reverse showcases a colonial drummer, differing from the typical eagle design. This particular error coin’s estimated value is an astounding $45 million.

Other Valuable U.S. Quarters

Beyond the famed Bicentennial error coin, several other quarters have achieved remarkable valuations due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique minting errors.

1. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

Mintage: Approximately 52,000
Distinctive Features: Introduced as a replacement for the Barber Quarter, this coin depicts Lady Liberty standing between two gates, holding a shield and an olive branch. The initial design featured an exposed chest, which was modified in subsequent years.
Estimated Value: Pristine examples can fetch between $20,000 and $40,000.

2. 1932-D Washington Quarter

Mintage: 436,800
Distinctive Features: Minted in Denver, this coin marks the inaugural year of the Washington Quarter series, introduced to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday.
Estimated Value: High-grade specimens have been auctioned for up to $143,750.

3. 1932-S Washington Quarter

Mintage: 408,000
Distinctive Features: Produced in San Francisco, this coin shares its design with the 1932-D but is rarer due to its lower mintage.
Estimated Value: Well-preserved coins can command prices exceeding $20,000.

4. 1943-S Washington Quarter

Mintage: 21,700,000
Distinctive Features: Struck during World War II, this coin is notable for its silver composition, as nickel and copper were conserved for the war effort.
Estimated Value: Top-condition examples have reached values around $23,500.

High-Value U.S. Quarters

Year	Mint Mark	Mintage	Notable Feature	Estimated Value
1976	None	N/A	Double-strike error (Bicentennial design)	$45 million
1916	None	~52,000	First-year issue of Standing Liberty design	$20,000 – $40,000
1932	D	436,800	Low mintage Washington Quarter	Up to $143,750
1932	S	408,000	Even lower mintage Washington Quarter	Over $20,000
1943	S	21,700,000	High-grade examples are extremely rare	Around $23,500

Understanding Coin Values

Several factors contribute to a coin’s value:

Mintage Numbers: Lower production often leads to higher rarity.
Minting Errors: Unique mistakes during production can make coins highly sought after.
Historical Significance: Coins from notable periods or events tend to appreciate in value.
Condition (Grade): Coins in superior condition, with minimal wear, are more valuable.

In conclusion, while most quarters are worth their face value, certain rare specimens can be worth substantial amounts.