Collecting coins is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to uncover treasures hidden in plain sight. Did you know that some quarters in your pocket change could be worth thousands of dollars? This article will explore the most valuable Bicentennial quarters and five more rare quarters worth over $2,000. Let’s dive into the details and see if you might already own a small fortune!
What Is the Bicentennial Quarter?
The Bicentennial quarter was minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. Unlike regular quarters, it has a unique design featuring a colonial drummer on the back and the dates “1776–1976” on the front. Millions were made, but only a few have become extremely valuable due to their rarity and unique features.
Top Bicentennial Quarter Worth $20,000
- Why Is It Valuable?
The rarest Bicentennial quarter is worth nearly $20,000 because it was struck on a silver planchet instead of copper-nickel. This minting error makes it incredibly rare. - How to Spot It:
Look for quarters that feel heavier or have a silver tone. If you’re unsure, have the coin professionally appraised.
5 Other Quarters Worth Over $2,000
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Features: Low mintage and “D” mint mark for Denver.
- Value: $2,000–$5,000 depending on condition.
2. 1943 Washington Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
- Features: Doubling on the obverse lettering or numbers.
- Value: Around $3,000 for high-grade coins.
3. 1950 Proof Quarter
- Features: Specially made for collectors, very limited quantity.
- Value: $2,500 or more.
4. 1965 Silver Quarter Error
- Features: Minted on a silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel.
- Value: Up to $7,000.
5. 1999 Delaware State Quarter (Spitting Horse)
- Features: A die crack on the horse’s mouth, resembling a spit.
- Value: Around $2,000 in uncirculated condition.
| Coin Name | Special Features | Estimated Value | Year Minted | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | Colonial drummer design, silver planchet error | Up to $20,000 | 1976 | Unique minting errors, struck on silver planchets instead of copper-nickel. |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage, Denver mint mark | $2,000–$6,000 | 1932 | Extremely rare with only about 436,800 coins produced. |
| 1943 Double Die Obverse Quarter | Double image on “Liberty” and “In God We Trust” | $3,000–$15,000 | 1943 | Double die error increases collector interest. |
| 1965 Silver Quarter Error | Struck on a silver planchet instead of clad composition | $4,000–$7,000 | 1965 | Minting on leftover silver planchets makes it an anomaly for its year. |
| 1950 Proof Quarter | High-polish surface, limited proof coins minted | $2,500–$5,000 | 1950 | Scarce proof editions attract collectors due to their superior finish. |
| 1999 Delaware “Spitting Horse” | Die crack resembling saliva on horse’s mouth | $2,000–$5,000 | 1999 | Unique die crack error makes this coin stand out among state quarters. |
| 1970-S Quarter on Canadian Planchet | Minted on a foreign planchet by mistake | $10,000–$12,000 | 1970 | Struck on a Canadian coin planchet, making it highly collectible. |
| 1937 Doubled Die Reverse Quarter | Doubled design on the reverse side | $1,500–$4,000 | 1937 | The doubling effect increases rarity and collector value. |
| 1955 Washington Quarter | Rare in mint condition, low population | $1,800–$3,000 | 1955 | Low number of high-grade examples left in circulation. |
| 2004 Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter | Additional leaf on corn stalk caused by die error | $1,500–$3,000 | 2004 | Unique die error creates a visual anomaly that collectors love. |
How to Check If Your Quarter Is Valuable
- Inspect the Design: Look for mint marks, errors, or unique features.
- Weigh Your Coin: Silver quarters weigh slightly more than standard ones.
- Get Professional Appraisal: If you suspect your quarter is rare, take it to an expert.
Why Collectors Value These Coins
Rare coins are sought after for their historical significance, unique features, and limited availability. Bicentennial quarters and other rare finds represent pieces of American history that collectors love to own.
FAQs
What is the Bicentennial quarter, and why is it special?
The Bicentennial quarter was minted in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. It features a unique design with a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dates “1776–1976.” Special minting errors and rare versions make some of these quarters highly valuable.
How much is the rare Bicentennial quarter worth?
A rare Bicentennial quarter struck on a silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel is worth nearly $20,000 due to its rarity and collector demand.
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is valuable?
Look for unique features like a silver tone or an error in minting. Weighing the coin or having it professionally appraised can confirm its value.
Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No, most Bicentennial quarters are common and worth their face value. Only those with minting errors, special compositions, or uncirculated conditions are valuable.
What other quarters are worth over $2,000?
Some examples include:
1932-D Washington Quarter
1943 Double Die Obverse Quarter
1965 Silver Quarter Error
1950 Proof Quarter
1999 Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
Who would have thought a simple quarter could be worth thousands of dollars? The Bicentennial quarter and other rare coins prove that valuable treasures might be hiding in your pocket change. Start checking your coins today—you might discover a hidden fortune that could change your life.
