Collecting rare U.S. quarters can be an exciting and potentially lucrative hobby. Some quarters minted decades ago are now worth tens of thousands of dollars due to their rarity, minting errors, or unique features.
This guide will help you identify five rare quarters that could be worth more than $20,000. If you happen to have one of these coins, you might be holding onto a significant piece of numismatic history!
5 Rare U.S. Quarters Worth Over $20,000
1. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
Value: Up to $50,000
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter was the first quarter ever minted by the U.S. Mint. With only 6,146 coins produced, it is one of the rarest coins in existence.
The coin’s obverse features a bust of Liberty, and the reverse shows a small eagle within a wreath. Due to its low mintage and historical significance, this quarter can fetch up to $50,000 in auctions depending on its condition.
2. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Value: Up to $143,750
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable quarters from the 20th century. This coin was minted during the Great Depression, and the Denver Mint produced only 436,800 of these quarters. In mint condition, this coin can sell for over $143,000.
Collectors prize this quarter due to its low mintage and the fact that it marks the beginning of the Washington Quarter series
3. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Quarter
Value: Up to $376,000
The 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Quarter is extremely rare due to its low mintage of just 4,000 coins. Many of these quarters were melted down after the Mint Act of 1873 increased the weight of silver coins, making the surviving specimens extremely valuable. Only a few examples are known to exist today, and the highest-quality coins can sell for over $376,000.
4. Bicentennial Quarters (Error Coins)
Value: Over $20,000
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate the United States’ 200th birthday, is valuable when it contains minting errors.
The rarest varieties include the missing mint mark or double die obverse, both of which can fetch upwards of $20,000 at auction. These coins are particularly sought after for their historical significance and the unique design featuring a colonial drummer.
5. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
Value: Up to $2,530
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter may seem modern, but it has a valuable error that makes it highly sought after by collectors.
Two varieties exist with an extra leaf on the corn depicted on the reverse side of the coin—one pointing upward and the other downward. Quarters with this minting error can sell for more than $2,500 depending on their condition.
| Quarter | Year | Minting Error/Significance | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | First quarter ever minted | Up to $50,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | Low mintage | Up to $143,750 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated | 1873 | Low mintage and rare survivors | Up to $376,000 |
| 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter | 2004 | Extra leaf error | Up to $2,530 |
| Bicentennial Error Quarter | 1976 | Missing mint mark or other errors | Over $20,000 |
Conclusion
Rare U.S. quarters can be worth significant sums, especially if they contain minting errors or were produced in limited quantities. If you believe you might own one of these rare coins, it’s essential to have it appraised by a professional.
Coin collecting is not only a hobby but also an investment, and holding onto these treasures can pay off significantly in the future. Always store your rare coins properly to preserve their condition and value.
FAQs
1. How can I determine if my quarter is valuable?
Look for minting errors, low mintage numbers, or special features like extra leaves or missing mint marks. Consulting with a professional numismatist or using reputable online resources can help you identify valuable quarters.
2. Where can I sell rare quarters?
Rare quarters can be sold through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay. Always get multiple appraisals to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
3. How should I store valuable quarters?
Store your coins in a dry, cool environment in protective holders or coin albums to avoid damage from humidity, air, or improper handling.
4. What makes the 1932-D Washington Quarter valuable?
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is valuable due to its low mintage of only 436,800 coins, making it one of the rarest in the Washington series.
5. Are modern quarters ever valuable?
Yes, modern quarters like the 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter can be valuable if they contain minting errors, such as the extra leaf variety.
References
- APMEX – Rare U.S. Quarters Worth Real Money
- Wealthy Nickel – 11 Quarters That Are Worth Serious Money
- Work + Money – 20 Rare Quarters Worth Some Serious Money
- Mackinslice – Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Over $20,000
