Coin collecting is an exciting hobby where history, art, and money come together. Some coins are not only valuable but tell stories of the past. A great example is the Bicentennial Quarter, a coin that recently sold for nearly $40 million! In this article, we’ll explore this amazing coin and three other quarters valued at over $300,000.
The $40 Million Bicentennial Quarter
History and Design
The Bicentennial Quarter was released in 1976 to celebrate 200 years of American independence. Its design features George Washington on the front, with a drummer boy and 13 stars representing the original colonies on the back. This special design was chosen through a national contest, adding to its importance.
Why It’s Worth So Much
Out of the millions of Bicentennial Quarters, one stood out, fetching nearly $40 million at auction. What makes it so valuable? This particular coin was made of 90% silver, unlike most quarters made from copper-nickel. It also has a minting mistake called a “double die” error, where parts of the design are printed twice. These rare features, along with the coin’s great condition, made it worth a fortune.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
A Historic Coin
The Washington Quarter began in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Originally, it was supposed to be a one-year coin, but it became so popular that it continued to be made. The 1932-D quarter, minted in Denver, is one of the rarest, with only 436,800 made.
High Value
A well-preserved 1932-D quarter can sell for over $300,000. Collectors love it because it was the first year of the Washington Quarter series, and its low mintage makes it hard to find.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
Early American History
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a piece of America’s early history. Designed by artist Gilbert Stuart, it shows Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the front and a small eagle on the back. Only 6,146 of these coins were made, making it extremely rare.
Value
This coin can be worth more than $400,000! Its rarity, age, and beautiful design make it highly sought after by collectors.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
A New Design
In 1916, the U.S. Mint introduced the Standing Liberty Quarter to replace the older Barber Quarter. Sculptor Hermon MacNeil’s design shows Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch, representing defense and peace.
Why Collectors Love It
Only 52,000 of these quarters were made in 1916, making them very rare. In mint condition, this coin can be worth over $300,000 due to its beauty and historical significance.
These valuable quarters remind us that coins are more than just money; they are pieces of history. From the nearly $40 million Bicentennial Quarter to the $300,000+ 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, these treasures connect us to America’s past. Whether you collect for fun, history, or investment, coin collecting is a journey through time, art, and culture.
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter worth $40 million?
A rare minting error and being struck on a 90% silver planchet make this coin highly valuable.
How rare is the 1932-D Washington Quarter?
Only 436,800 of these quarters were made, making it one of the rarest in the series.
Why is the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter valuable?
With only 6,146 made, its rarity and historical significance make it worth over $400,000.
What makes the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter special?
Its limited mintage of 52,000 and the intricate design make it worth over $300,000.
How does a coin’s condition affect its value?
Coins in mint state condition, showing no signs of wear, are typically worth the most.