The world of rare coin collecting is full of surprises, with everyday coins sometimes turning out to be worth a fortune. Among these hidden treasures is the elusive Bicentennial Quarter, which some rare versions have been valued at $1.2 million! If you’ve got a 1976 quarter lying around, it might be time to take a closer look. Additionally, we’ll explore three other coins worth over $200,000, making them highly sought after by collectors.
The $1.2M Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, which was minted in 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th birthday, has a unique drummer boy design on the back rather than the standard eagle. Most quarters from this time are worth only face value, but some rare error coins or special strikes can be worth a small fortune.
Key Features That Increase Value:
- Silver Content: Most Bicentennial Quarters were composed of copper-nickel, but a few were minted in 40% silver. Those are much more valuable.
- Minting Errors: Misprinted, double-struck, or off-center coins can be more valuable. There are some known errors on Bicentennial Quarters that make them valuable finds.
- Proof Versions: The 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Proof Quarter from the San Francisco Mint is most coveted if kept in mint state.
- Grading and Condition: Professional graded MS-68 coins and above, by companies like PCGS or NGC, are worth six and seven figures in auctions.
How to Check If You Have One?
- Check for a mint mark “S” on the underside of the date.
- Balance the coin—silver quarters are 5.75 grams, while normal ones are 5.67 grams.
- Inspect for mistakes such as double-die obverse or off-center strike.
If you own one, get it professionally graded. A high-grade mistake Bicentennial Quarter once sold for $1.2 million!
3 More Rare Coins Worth Over $200,000
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
Penny, in World War II, were to be constructed of steel in order to save copper for the war effort. A handful of copper pennies were accidently minted in 1943, which now make them among the most valuable coins in the history of the United States.
How to Identify It?
- If your penny from 1943 clings to a magnet, then it is made of steel and isn’t worth anything.
- If it doesn’t adhere, it may be an exceptionally rare copper type.
- High-grade coins have sold for more than $250,000 in auctions.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Perhaps the most renowned U.S. coin mistake, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent, boasts striking doubling of the date and letters. The minting mistake resulted from a misalignment.
How to Spot It?
- Watch for obvious doubling in the inscription “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Mint-condition coins can fetch $200,000 or more.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The Washington Quarter series started in 1932, but the Denver Mint (D) only made 436,800 quarters that year, so they are very rare.
What to Check For?
- A 1932-D mint mark (found on the back below the eagle).
- Completely uncirculated high-grade coins are worth in excess of $230,000.
Final Thought
Uncommon coins such as the $1.2M Bicentennial Quarter or any of the valuable coins mentioned here may be hidden in your stash. If you think you do, have it checked by a professional coin grader or appraisal service to make sure it’s authentic. Check your pocket change today—you never know, it could be treasure worth a small fortune!
FAQ’s
Are all the Bicentennial Quarters of 1976?
No, most standard copper nickel quarters are. Only on silver planchets or with mint errors have been affected by significant quantities. Always check for lead and weight for clues.
How much does it cost to degree a coin?
Character services require a $20 to $200 fee, depending on the coin and service level. For specific price information, visit PCGs or NGC.