Coin collecting is more than just a hobby for many—it’s an adventure. Beyond their historical significance, some coins have become incredibly rare and valuable, turning them into treasures for collectors. One such example is the Bicentennial Quarter, which recently sold for an astounding $1,350,000. Alongside this remarkable coin, six other quarters boast values exceeding $80,000, each with its own fascinating story. Let’s take a closer look at these extraordinary quarters.
Contents
- Bicentennial Quarter
- 1932 Washington Quarter
- 1943 Copper Quarter
- 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
- 1964 SMS Quarter
- 1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on Canadian Coin
- 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter
Bicentennial Quarter: A $1.35 Million Treasure
In 1976, to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, the U.S. Mint released the Bicentennial Quarter. Although millions were minted, a rare variant with a minting error has become a holy grail for collectors. This coin’s error—likely a misprint or double die—combined with its pristine condition, makes it highly valuable. One of these quarters recently fetched nearly $1,350,000 at auction, solidifying its place as the crown jewel of quarter collections.
1932 Washington Quarter: A Historical Gem
The 1932 Washington Quarter is another sought-after coin, particularly due to its historical significance. It marked the beginning of the Washington quarter series and was initially designed as a one-year commemorative coin. However, its rarity has made it a lasting fixture in U.S. currency. Washington quarters minted with a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) mintmark in uncirculated condition are especially valuable, often reaching over $80,000 due to their scarcity and historical importance.
1943 Copper Quarter: A WWII Coin Mistake
During World War II, copper was in high demand for military purposes, leading the U.S. Mint to produce quarters using zinc-coated steel in 1943. However, some rare copper quarters were mistakenly struck, likely due to leftover copper blanks being used in the minting process. These copper quarters are now among the rarest in U.S. coinage, with those in good condition often valued at over $100,000.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter: A Collector’s Error Coin
The 1950-D/S Quarter features an overmintmark error, where a “D” mintmark from the Denver Mint was stamped over an “S” mintmark from the San Francisco Mint. This rare mistake occurred when dies intended for one mint were mistakenly sent to another. Quarters with this overmintmark error, especially in mint condition, can fetch over $80,000, making them highly coveted among error coin enthusiasts.
1964 SMS Quarter: A Mystery Coin
The 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Quarter is shrouded in mystery. The U.S. Mint has never officially explained its creation, leading to much speculation among collectors. What sets this quarter apart is its unique satin-like finish, which gives it an appearance different from standard circulation coins. Only a handful of these coins are known to exist, and in pristine condition, a 1964 SMS Quarter can be worth over $100,000.
1970-S Proof Quarter Struck on Canadian Coin: A Cross-Border Error
The 1970-S Proof Quarter struck on a Canadian coin is one of the most fascinating mistakes in U.S. minting history. This rare error occurred when a 1970-S proof quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter. The result is a coin with a fascinating combination of U.S. and Canadian elements. Because of its rarity and the intriguing story behind it, this coin can sell for over $80,000 at auctions.
1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter: A Unique Minting Error
In 1999, a broadstruck quarter was produced when a Connecticut state quarter was struck without the collar that holds the coin in place during minting. This error caused the coin to be larger and misshapen, creating what is known as a broadstruck quarter. The 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck is rare, and in mint condition, it can fetch over $80,000, making it a standout piece for any coin collection.
Conclusion: Coins as Hidden Treasures
These rare quarters remind us that even the most common items—like coins—can hold incredible value. Whether due to minting errors, limited production runs, or unique historical significance, these coins are more than just currency; they are pieces of history. So, the next time you stumble across some loose change, take a moment to examine it closely—you might just be holding a hidden treasure.
FAQ
- Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable? The Bicentennial Quarter’s rarity stems from a minting error and its pristine condition, which made it worth $1,350,000.
- What makes the 1932 Washington Quarter rare? Its limited minting and historical importance add significant value to the coin.
- How was the 1943 Copper Quarter created? The 1943 Copper Quarter is the result of a minting error where leftover copper blanks were used during WWII.
- What is an overmintmark error? An overmintmark error happens when one mint’s mark is mistakenly stamped over another mint’s mark, creating a rare and valuable coin.
- Why is the 1964 SMS Quarter mysterious? The U.S. Mint has never officially explained the creation of the 1964 SMS Quarter, making it a coin shrouded in intrigue.
