Collectors and coin enthusiasts are always on the lookout for hidden treasures, and some rare U.S. coins have reached incredible values at auction. One of the most surprising discoveries is a Bicentennial Quarter worth almost $1 million. There are also three other coins that are worth more than $100,000, and they are extremely sought after as collectibles. Let’s explore these precious coins and how you can spot them.
$1M Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was produced with a dual-date special “1776–1976” and has a colonial drummer on the back. Although billions were produced, some scarce silver variations have become very valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
Few Bicentennial quarters were accidentally produced on 90% silver planchets destined for proof coins. They were meant to go into collector sets but instead got into circulation, which makes them highly valuable.
A high-grade example of one of these silver Bicentennial quarters has been worth almost $1 million because it is so rare and historic.
What to Look For
- Check the edge – There will not be a copper stripe on a silver quarter.
- Weight – Silver quarters are a bit heavier than clad coins.
- Authentication – If you think you might have one, have it graded by PCGS or NGC.
3 Other Coins Worth $100K
1. 1932 Washington Quarter
The Washington Quarter become first introduced in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s two hundredth birthday. Although most from that year are a collectible, the 1932-D (Denver Mint) and 1932-S (San Francisco Mint) are the scarcest.
Why It’s Valuable
There had been best 436,800 quarters produced in Denver in 1932, so the 1932-D Washington area is one of the most scarce within the series. High-grade ones can sell for more than $100,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Mint mark – Check for the “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) under the eagle on the back.
- Condition – Almost new or unreturned coins are worth the most.
2. 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is perhaps the rarest and most coveted U.S. quarter. The Carson City Mint, a tiny and brief-manned mint where coins were minted from area silver mines, produced it.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 8,340 of these coins were minted, making this quarter very rare. Few have survived in high grades, and they are worth more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark – Look on the back side under the eagle.
- Authentication – Because it is so rare, it tends to be forged, so professional grading is a must.
3. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the rarest and maximum treasured of all U.S. Quarters. Charles E. Barber designed the sector that was constructed from 1892 to 1916, with the 1901-S being the most rare within the series.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 72,664 quarters were produced in San Francisco in 1901. Because Barber quarters were widely circulated, it is extremely rare to find a well-preserved one. High-grade specimens can fetch more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- S mint mark – Under the eagle on the back.
- Condition – Even worn 1901-S quarters are worth something, but uncirculated ones are extremely rare.
Final Thought
Although the majority of quarters that are currently in circulation are worth only 25 cents, exceptional discoveries such as the silver Bicentennial quarter, 1932-D Washington quarter, 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, and 1901-S Barber quarter may be worth thousands—or even millions—because of their rarity and historical value. If you suspect you have one, it’s worth having it authenticated!
FAQ’s
How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Inspect the edge—if it does not have a copper stripe, it could be silver.
Should I have my rare quarter graded?
Yes
What is the value of the 1932-D Washington quarter?
Low mintage of 436,800 makes it one of the most rare quarters.