Coin collecting has captivated enthusiasts for centuries, blending history, artistry, and the thrill of finding coins that are worth far more than their face value. Among these treasures, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter stands out, with rare editions fetching nearly $40,000 at auctions. However, it’s not the only valuable quarter.
Several others, dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, are valued at over $2,000, making them highly sought after by collectors. Let’s look into the history and rarity behind these valuable coins and what makes them special.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, is a collector’s favorite. While millions were produced for general circulation, the special editions, struck in 40% silver for collectors, stand out. These coins feature a distinctive colonial drummer design on the reverse side, surrounded by 13 stars symbolizing the original colonies.
What sets the rarest Bicentennial Quarters apart is their condition and the absence of an ‘S’ mint mark, even though they were struck in San Francisco. Pristine, uncirculated examples can fetch nearly $40,000. Their historical significance, paired with their rarity and flawless condition, makes them a highlight of any collection.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is not just valuable for its rarity but for its historical importance, as it marks the first year of the Washington quarter series. With a mintage of only 436,800, it’s one of the lowest production runs in the Washington series, making it a key date for collectors.
Minted in Denver, this coin was introduced to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, adding further to its historical allure. Well-preserved examples of the 1932-D quarter can easily surpass $2,000, with the value climbing significantly for coins in higher grades. Its combination of low mintage and historical significance makes it one of the most coveted coins in U.S. numismatics.
1932-S Washington Quarter
Like its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington Quarter is highly prized among collectors. Minted in San Francisco, only 408,000 were produced, making it even rarer than the 1932-D. As part of the first year of the Washington quarter series, this coin is a must-have for serious collectors.
Coins in fine condition often sell for more than $2,000, but as with any coin, higher grades can command significantly higher prices. The rarity and demand for completing Washington quarter collections make the 1932-S one of the most valuable coins from the early 20th century.
1943-S Washington Quarter
The 1943-S Washington Quarter holds a special place in U.S. history, as it was minted during World War II and composed of 90% silver. While silver quarters are generally more valuable due to their metal content, the 1943-S quarter is particularly sought after due to its low production numbers and rarity in high-grade conditions.
Minted in San Francisco, this quarter had a relatively low output compared to other years, making well-preserved examples highly valuable. Collectors are willing to pay over $2,000 for coins in excellent condition, and the value continues to rise as fewer high-grade specimens remain available.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter is a fascinating error coin that collectors eagerly seek. This quarter was initially stamped with a San Francisco mint mark (S), but a Denver mint mark (D) was later punched over it, creating the overmintmark error. Such minting mistakes are rare, and coins with this error have become highly collectible.
Well-preserved examples of the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter can easily exceed $2,000, and their value continues to appreciate over time. This error coin provides a unique glimpse into the U.S. minting process and is a prized addition for collectors of mint anomalies.
1964-D Quarter with Doubled Die Reverse
Minting errors often result in significant value appreciation, and the 1964-D Washington Quarter with a Doubled Die Reverse is no exception. This error occurred when the die used to strike the coin was improperly doubled, resulting in a noticeable doubling effect on the reverse, particularly in the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and the eagle’s feathers.
Because the 1964-D quarter was one of the last U.S. quarters made from 90% silver, its intrinsic value is already high. But the doubled die error makes it a standout among collectors. High-grade examples of this rare mint error can command prices well over $2,000, making it a valuable addition to any coin collection.
| Quarter | Key Feature | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Special Mint) | Struck in 40% silver, no ‘S’ mint mark | Nearly $40,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | Low mintage (436,800) | Over $2,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | Low mintage (408,000) | Over $2,000 |
| 1943-S Washington Quarter | Silver composition, WWII era | Over $2,000 |
| 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter | Denver mint mark over San Francisco mint mark | Over $2,000 |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Washington Quarter | Doubled die error, 90% silver composition | Over $2,000 |
Quarters may seem like ordinary pocket change, but certain varieties are highly valuable collectibles. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, especially those struck in 40% silver and in pristine condition, can command nearly $40,000 at auction. Other quarters, such as the 1932-D and 1932-S Washington Quarters, are worth over $2,000 due to their low mintages and historical significance. Minting errors, like the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter and the 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse, add to the appeal and value of these coins.
For coin collectors, these quarters represent both a piece of history and a potentially lucrative investment. If you have any of these rare quarters in your collection, their value might be much more than you ever expected.
FAQs
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $40,000?
Special mint editions struck in 40% silver and in pristine condition, especially those without an ‘S’ mint mark, are highly valuable.
How rare is the 1932-D Washington Quarter?
With only 436,800 minted, it’s one of the rarest Washington quarters and can exceed $2,000 in good condition.
Why is the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter valuable?
This quarter features a minting error where a Denver mint mark was stamped over a San Francisco mint mark, making it a rare and collectible coin.
What is special about the 1964-D Washington Quarter with a Doubled Die Reverse?
The coin’s reverse features a doubling error, making it a valuable piece, especially since it’s one of the last quarters made from 90% silver.
How much can the 1943-S Washington Quarter be worth?
Well-preserved examples can easily exceed $2,000 due to their silver content and rarity during the WWII era.
