Coin collecting is like a treasure hunt that doubles as a walk through history. Among American quarters, a few rare specimens stand out, valued at thousands of dollars by avid collectors. Let’s take a closer look at six quarters, including the coveted Bicentennial Quarter, and know what makes them so desirable.
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. Most of these coins hold their face value of 25 cents, but some contain a rare double die obverse error, where the front details, such as the date and motto, appear doubled. This minting mistake transforms an ordinary quarter into a collector’s dream. Pristine error coins can fetch up to $25,000, making this one of the most exciting finds for numismatists.
1932-D Washington Quarter
This quarter, minted to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, is an iconic piece of American history. Only 436,800 coins were produced at the Denver Mint, making it one of the rarest quarters of the 20th century. High-grade examples regularly sell for over $1,000, with top-quality specimens commanding significantly more. Its combination of scarcity and historical importance makes it a must-have for collectors.
1932-S Washington Quarter
The San Francisco counterpart to the 1932-D is even rarer, with just 408,000 coins minted. Its low mintage ensures its value, with well-preserved pieces often exceeding $1,000. Owning a 1932-S is akin to holding a piece of American numismatic heritage, making it a prized addition to any collection.
1942-S Silver Washington Quarter
Minted during World War II, the 1942-S quarter carries both historical and monetary value. Made from 90% silver, its relatively low mintage appeals to collectors interested in wartime artifacts and precious metals. Well-preserved specimens often exceed $1,000, serving as both a collectible and a tangible link to a pivotal moment in history.
1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter
This fascinating error coin resulted when the Denver Mint mark (D) was stamped over a San Francisco Mint mark (S), creating a unique D/S overmintmark. This error provides a glimpse into minting practices and is highly sought after by specialists. High-grade examples of this coin routinely sell for over $1,000, making it a unique and valuable addition to any collection.
1964-D Washington Quarter
As the last year of 90% silver quarters, the 1964-D is already significant. But some of these coins feature a double die reverse error, visible in the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This error, combined with its silver content, makes well-preserved specimens particularly desirable, often selling for more than $1,000.
Rare quarters like these offer collectors a blend of historical significance, artistry, and rarity. Whether you’re drawn to a Bicentennial error or a silver wartime piece, each coin tells its own story, making numismatics an endlessly fascinating pursuit.
FAQs
What makes Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
Rare errors like the double die obverse can be worth up to $25,000.
Why are 1932 quarters so rare?
Low mintage at the Denver and San Francisco Mints makes them scarce.
What is a 1950-D/S quarter?
An error coin where a Denver Mint mark is stamped over a San Francisco Mint mark.
Are all 1964 quarters valuable?
Quarters with a double die reverse error and silver content are valuable.
How much is a 1942-S quarter worth?
In good condition, it can fetch over $1,000 due to its silver content and rarity.
