The world of coin collecting is full of amazing discoveries, where ordinary-looking coins can fetch prices of up to millions of dollars. One such rare coin is the Bicentennial Quarter, which was issued in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of America. This special coin, which had a rare minting error, has reached a price of $31 million (about Rs 256 crore) today.
But the Bicentennial Quarter is not the only coin that has been sold for crores. Many historical and flawed quarter coins have become extremely valuable for collectors and investors today. In this article, we will tell you about such rare quarter coins, whose value is estimated in millions and crores.
Rare Quarter Coins and Their Features
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $31 million | Minted on a 90% silver planchet instead of standard copper-nickel |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Quarter | 1794 | $50 million+ | One of the first U.S. Mint quarters, featuring Lady Liberty’s flowing hair |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | $50 million+ | Rare early coin; many were melted for their silver content |
| 1823/2 Overdate Quarter | 1823 | $50 million+ | Features an overdate error where “1823” was stamped over “1822” |
| 1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter | 1838 | $50 million+ | One of the earliest proof quarters with intricate detailing |
| 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter | 1870 | $50 million+ | Survived the San Francisco Mint fire, making it extremely rare |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $50 million+ | First-year issue with an iconic new design |
Bicentennial Quarter ($31 million)
The Bicentennial Quarter was issued in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Though this coin is usually only worth 25 cents, one particular coin, which was mistakenly minted on a 90% silver planchet, has sold for $31 million today.
The coin features a “1776-1976” dual date design and a portrait of a soldier playing a drum on the reverse. The coin’s historical significance and minting error make it rare and prized.
1794 Flowing Hair Quarter ($50 million+)
The Flowing Hair Quarter, minted in 1794, was America’s first quarter coin and is worth over $50 million today. The coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse, with her flowing hair symbolizing freedom.
Because it was one of America’s first coins and was minted in very limited numbers, it is a treasure trove for history buffs and coin collectors.
1804 Draped Bust Quarter ($50 million+)
The 1804 Draped Bust quarter is one of the most expensive quarters in the world due to its unique design and rarity. The coin was designed with Liberty’s flowing robes and a rampant eagle.
Most of the coins were melted down due to the rise in the price of silver, making the remaining coins extremely rare. Today, it is worth over $50 million.
1823/2 Overdate Quarter ($50 million+)
This coin became rare due to an overdate error. The date “1823” was reprinted over “1822”, causing the numerals to slightly overlap.
The mistake was caused by the U.S. Mint reusing an old die. Due to this, this coin has become worth over $50 million and is extremely popular among coin collectors.
1838 Proof Liberty Seated Quarter ($50 Million+)
The Liberty Seated Quarter issued in 1838 is worth over $50 million today due to its proof quality and limited number of production.
This coin depicts Liberty seated on a rock, which brought about a major change in the design of American coins. Its extraordinary engraving makes it even more attractive.
1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter ($50 Million+)
The 1870-S Liberty Seated Quarter is considered to be one of the few coins to survive the historic fire of the San Francisco Mint.
Since most of the coins were destroyed in this fire, this rare quarter is estimated to be worth over $50 million.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter ($50 million+)
Issued in 1916, this coin represents a new and artistic depiction of Liberty. Liberty is seen with a shield and olive branch, symbolizing protection and peace.
Due to its limited mintage, this coin has been valued at over $50 million.
The Importance of Rare Coins
Rare quarters are not only expensive, they also hold stories of history, art, and errors.
- The Bicentennial quarter, which was accidentally minted on a silver planchet, has been valued at $31 million.
- The 1794 Flowing Hair quarter, which was the first quarter coin in the United States, has sold for over $50 million.
- Quarters with overdate errors and limited mintings sell for millions today.
If you are a coin collector or just curious about coins, this information might be exciting for you. Who knows? Maybe you too have a priceless coin that can make you rich!
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial quarter so expensive?
A rare copy of this was mistakenly printed on a 90% silver planchet, making it worth $31 million.
Why is the 1794 Flowing Hair quarter so valuable?
This was the first quarter minted in the US and very few copies of it remain.
How do I know if I have a rare quarter?
If you have an old coin, check for any errors, overdates, or unusual designs on it.
What is the most expensive quarter ever sold?
The 1794 Flowing Hair quarter and other rare coins have sold for over $50 million.
Where can I sell rare quarters?
You can sell it at Coin Auctions, Coin Dealers, or Online Numismatic Marketplaces.