Coin collecting is more than just saving coins—it’s like holding a piece of history in your hand. Every coin has its own story, and some are worth a lot of money. For example, the Bicentennial Quarter—one rare version of it is worth almost $90 million.
Sounds unbelievable, right? But there are other coins worth millions, too. In this article, we’ll talk about the Bicentennial Quarter and five other quarters that have amazed collectors, each worth over $30 million.
Bicentennial Quarter
Let’s start with the Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate 200 years of American independence. This coin is special not only because of the anniversary, but also because of a mistake in its minting, called a double strike. This means the coin was struck twice, making the design overlap. Add in the fact that the coin is in perfect condition, and you’ve got a rare gem worth up to $90 million.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
Okay, we’re stretching the rules here—it’s not a quarter, but the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is too valuable to leave out. During World War II, the U.S. made pennies out of steel to save copper for the war effort. But a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 were used by mistake in 1943. These pennies are now worth millions, with one even selling for over $30 million.
1932 Washington Silver Quarter
The 1932 Washington Silver Quarter was the first of its kind, created to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday. Some of these quarters are worth over $30 million because of their mint marks and condition. The ones minted in Denver or San Francisco are especially valuable—look for a small “D” or “S” on the coin. If it’s in perfect condition, you’ve got a coin worth a fortune.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the first quarters ever made by the U.S. Mint, with only about 6,000 coins produced. It has a small eagle on the back, a design that was used for only two years. Because of its age and rarity, a high-quality version can be worth over $30 million.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
Next is the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter. The strange name comes from a minting error: the year “1823” was struck over “1822.” This mistake makes the coin extra valuable, especially since it’s rare and was produced in low numbers. If the coin is in great condition, it can be worth more than $30 million.
1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Lastly, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is known for its beautiful design and limited number. The design was changed in 1917, so the 1916 version is particularly rare. Coins in perfect condition have been sold for over $30 million because of their beauty and scarcity.
These rare quarters—and the 1943 Copper Penny—are more than just valuable. They represent important moments in American history. Whether they have minting mistakes or are limited editions, each coin tells a story.
If you’re a collector or just curious, these coins show that sometimes, what looks like spare change could be worth a lot of money.
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $90M?
It’s because of a double strike error and its perfect condition.
What is a double strike on a coin?
It happens when a coin is struck twice, causing the design to overlap.
Is the 1943 Copper Penny a quarter?
No, it’s a penny, but it’s extremely valuable because it’s so rare.
Where were the valuable 1932 quarters minted?
They were made in Denver and San Francisco—look for the “D” or “S” marks.
What makes a quarter valuable?
Rarity, condition, mint errors, and historical importance.