This Rare Bicentennial Quarter Could Fetch $1.35 Million: Coin collecting is not just a fascinating hobby but also an exciting opportunity to uncover coins worth far more than their face value. Among these hidden treasures is the Bicentennial Quarter, which recently sold for a staggering $1,350,000. But that’s not the only rare gem in circulation—there are six other quarters, each valued at over $80,000, each with a unique story to tell.
Let’s dive into the details of these extraordinary coins.
Table of Contents
- Bicentennial Quarter
- Washington Quarter (1932)
- 1943 Copper Quarter
- 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
- 1964 SMS Quarter
- 1970-S Proof Quarter on a Canadian Planchet
- 1999-P Broadstruck Quarter
- FAQs
Bicentennial Quarter
Minted in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, the Bicentennial Quarter is anything but ordinary. This quarter is famous for a minting error, possibly due to a double die or a typographical mistake. When found in uncirculated condition, this rare quarter’s historical significance and error make it incredibly valuable. At auction, one such quarter fetched nearly $1,350,000, making it a prized piece for collectors.
Washington Quarter (1932)
The 1932 Washington Quarter, initially struck to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, is now one of the most sought-after coins. Quarters from 1932 with a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) mint mark are particularly rare. In pristine condition, these coins can fetch over $80,000 due to their historical importance and scarcity.
1943 Copper Quarter
During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced quarters from zinc-coated steel instead of copper due to wartime restrictions. However, a few 1943 Copper Quarters were accidentally minted with copper planchets. These coins, made from the wrong material, are highly sought after, and those in excellent condition can be worth over $100,000.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
The 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter is a fascinating error where a “D” mint mark was struck over an “S” mint mark. This occurred when dies meant for one mint were mistakenly reused for another. In flawless condition, these rare coins can sell for over $80,000 due to their unique nature.
1964 SMS Quarter
The 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Quarter is shrouded in mystery because its production was never fully documented by the U.S. Mint. What sets these coins apart is their unique finish, which differs from other coins minted that year. With only a handful in existence, a 1964 SMS Quarter in mint condition can be valued at over $100,000.
1970-S Proof Quarter on a Canadian Planchet
In a rare error, a 1970-S Proof Quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter. This error, blending elements of both U.S. and Canadian coins, makes the 1970-S Proof Quarter a one-of-a-kind collectible. These rare coins have been known to fetch over $80,000 at auction due to their rarity and unique origins.
1999-P Broadstruck Quarter
The 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter is a result of an error in the minting process where the collar that holds the coin during production fails, causing the coin to strike outside of the normal area, resulting in a wider shape. This striking error makes the coin visually distinctive and highly collectible, with mint-condition examples valued at over $80,000.
Hidden Treasures
The Bicentennial Quarter and the six other rare coins highlighted here are prime examples of how history, minting errors, and rarity can transform an ordinary coin into a valuable treasure. Each coin tells a story, linking collectors to significant moments in U.S. history and showcasing the fascinating quirks of coin production.
Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting out, the thrill of discovering these rare coins could be life-changing. Who knows? The next coin in your pocket change might be worth a fortune waiting to be uncovered.
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter’s value comes from its minting error and its uncirculated condition, both of which increase its rarity and appeal to collectors.
What makes the 1943 Copper Quarter rare?
The 1943 Copper Quarter is rare because it was mistakenly minted using copper planchets, despite the U.S. Mint intending to use zinc-coated steel during World War II.
How rare is the 1964 SMS Quarter?
Very few 1964 SMS Quarters exist, and their production remains a mystery, making them highly sought after by collectors.
What is unique about the 1970-S Proof Quarter?
The 1970-S Proof Quarter is unique because it was struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter, creating a rare hybrid of U.S. and Canadian coinage.
What causes a broadstruck quarter?
A broadstruck quarter occurs when the collar dies fail during minting, causing the coin to expand beyond its intended size, creating an irregular, wide shape.