Coin collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s a chance to learn about the past, commemorate significant events, and maybe even make a wise investment. Quarters hold a particular place in collectors’ hearts among U.S. coins, and certain rare varieties may sell for incredible sums of money.
One example is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, a stunning coin with unusual variations that sold for as much as $25,000. In addition to delving into the specifics of this unique coin, we’ll look at five more extremely expensive quarters worth more than $1,000.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Honoring America’s Bicentennial:
The Bicentennial Quarter was released in 1976 to mark the 200th anniversary of American independence. This coin, with its distinctive design featuring a drummer child on the reverse and the dual date “1776-1976,” represented the country’s history and pride.
Although millions of Bicentennial quarters were produced and in circulation, a rare minting fault makes a few of these pieces unique.
Double Die Obverse Error:
When design components, such as the date or motto, appear duplicated, it’s called a “double die obverse.” Collectors seek these coins due to their distinctive look.
A modest piece of change may become a sought-after treasure when these Bicentennial Quarters with the double die mistake are in perfect, uncirculated condition, as they can be worth about $25,000.
Washington Quarter, 1932-D
A Fundamental Aspect of American Currency:
A staple of the Washington Quarter series is the 1932-D Washington Quarter, made in the Denver Mint. In honor of George Washington’s 200th birthday, his portrait appeared on quarters for the first time in 1932. With a mintage of just 436,800, the Denver-minted 1932-D quarter is among the most rare quarters of the 20th century.
Value and Collector Appeal:
The 1932-D is prized by collectors, particularly in high grades, because of its limited production and historical relevance.
The value of well-preserved instances of this quarter can exceed $1,000. This coin is extremely valuable as it marks the start of a legendary series in American coinage and is a rare coin.
S. Washington Quarter, 1932
An Uncommon Alternative to the 1932-D:
With an even smaller mintage of about 408,000, the San Francisco-minted 1932-S Washington Quarter is also extremely uncommon.
This quarter’s worth is further enhanced because, like the 1932-D, it was one of the first Washington quarters ever struck.
High Value for Well-Preserved Coins:
Collectors highly value the 1932-S Washington Quarter, especially when it is in superb condition. This coin is an excellent investment since flawless examples frequently cost over $1,000. It is a highly sought-after set for collectors and pays homage to George Washington in a significant way when paired with the 1932-D.
Silver Washington Quarter, 1942
A Coin from the War Era:
In addition to its silver content, the 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter is noteworthy for its historical significance as a product of World War II. Due to its intrinsic metal value and 90% silver composition, this quarter appeals to both numismatists and silver lovers.
Low Mintage and Collectibility:
Due to its comparatively low mintage, this quarter is uncommon and in high demand in higher grades, sometimes fetching over $1,000 when in perfect condition.
A desirable item for anybody interested in wartime memorabilia, the 1942-S is prized by collectors for its rarity and association with a pivotal moment in American history.
Overmintmark Quarter, 1950-D/S
An Intriguing Minting Mistake:
The 1950-D/S Washington Quarter offers a rare look at minting oddities. This coin has an over mintmark error, meaning that a “S” (San Francisco) mintmark was inadvertently placed over a “D” (Denver) mintmark. Since these mistakes are uncommon, they are very desirable.
Collector Desirability:
Coin collectors curious about the subtleties of coin creation are drawn to the 1950-D/S mistake. The desire for well-preserved copies with this particular fault is only increased by their scarcity, which frequently exceeds $1,000. It is a treasured object for fans that captures the surprising turns in minting history.
1964-D Washington Quarter
U.S. Coinage’s Silver Era Comes to an End:
Since it was the final year when quarters of 90% silver content were produced, the 1964-D Washington Quarter is notable in the history of American coinage. Additionally, some of these coins have a double die reverse fault, which causes some elements on the reverse—like “E PLURIBUS UNUM”—to appear doubled.
Value for Mistake Coins:
The 1964-D quarter is a highly desirable due to its unusual mistake and historical relevance. Mint-condition, well-preserved copies of this double-die reverse mistake quarter may fetch over $1,000. This coin, which is significant for its silver content and unusual mistake, signifies the end of an era in American currency.
Summary of Rare Quarters Worth Over $1,000
| Quarter | Year | Special Feature | Mintage | Value (High-Grade) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Double die obverse error | Millions | Up to $25,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | First-year, low mintage | 436,800 | Over $1,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | First-year, low mintage | 408,000 | Over $1,000 |
| 1942-S Silver Washington | 1942 | 90% silver, wartime production | Low | Over $1,000 |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark | 1950 | D over S mintmark error | Rare | Over $1,000 |
| 1964-D Washington Quarter | 1964 | Double die reverse, 90% silver | Moderate | Over $1,000 |
These quarters emphasize the appeal of collecting rare coins. Each one has a different tale to tell, whether commemorating significant events in American history or displaying uncommon minting faults. These coins provide collectors with a concrete investment with the potential for substantial value growth and a means of reestablishing a connection with the past.
FAQs
1. How much is the Bicentennial Quarter worth?
It is extremely desirable because of its uncommon double-die obverse mistake; immaculate copies may sell for up to $25,000.
2. Why is the Washington Quarter from 1932-D so uncommon?
This quarter is extremely sought-after since it is one of the rarest coins of the 20th century, with a restricted mintage of just 436,800.
3. What makes the 1950-D/S Washington Quarter special?
It has an uncommon overmintmark error, where a “D” is stamped over a “S,” which raises its collector value.
4. What is the value of the 1942-S Silver Quarter?
Because of its rarity and historical significance—it was coined during World War II—it is valued at over $1,000 in excellent grades.
5. The 1964-D Washington Quarter is collectible for what reason?
Collectors will find it more appealing because it was the final silver quarter with a rare double-die reverse fault.
READ MORE: Four Rare Bicentennial Quarters Are Worth Over $1,000 and $25,000, Respectively
