Collecting coins can be more than just a hobby; for some, it has become a gateway to substantial wealth. Certain rare quarters have fetched astonishing prices at auctions, turning ordinary collectors into millionaires.
Here, we delve into nine of the most valuable U.S. quarters, exploring their unique characteristics, historical contexts, and the fortunes they have garnered.
Contents
- 1 1. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
- 2 2. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
- 3 3. 1913-S Barber Quarter
- 4 4. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
- 5 5. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- 6 6. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- 7 7. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
- 8 8. 1970-S Washington Quarter
- 9 9. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Variety)
- 10 FAQs
1. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter holds the distinction of being the first quarter ever minted in the United States. With a mintage of only 6,146 coins, its rarity is unparalleled. In 2022, a specimen in superb condition sold for $1.74 million at auction, highlighting its immense value to collectors.
2. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
Although dated 1804, these quarters were minted in the 1830s as part of special presentation sets. Only 15 are known to exist, making them exceedingly rare. Their historical significance and scarcity have led to valuations exceeding $35 million, making them some of the most coveted coins among numismatists.
3. 1913-S Barber Quarter
With a mintage of just 40,000, the 1913-S Barber Quarter is a key date for collectors. Its rarity, especially in higher grades, has resulted in auction prices reaching up to $1,800 for well-preserved examples.
4. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter had a mintage of 396,000. While not the lowest, its value in uncirculated grades is significant, with prices reaching thousands of dollars, depending on condition.
5. 1932-D Washington Quarter
As one of the first Washington quarters minted, the 1932-D had a low mintage of 436,800. Its scarcity, particularly in mint state, has led to auction prices exceeding $89,000 for top-grade specimens.
6. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Similar to its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington Quarter had a low mintage of 408,000. High-grade examples are highly sought after, with values reaching into the thousands of dollars.
7. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
This over-mintmark variety, where a ‘D’ was stamped over an ‘S’, is a rarity among Washington quarters. Collectors value these coins for their unique minting error, with prices varying based on condition and demand.
8. 1970-S Washington Quarter
Some 1970-S quarters were struck on Canadian quarter planchets, resulting in a thinner coin. These error coins are rare and can fetch significant sums, with some selling for thousands of dollars at auction.
9. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Variety)
A die error resulted in some Wisconsin quarters featuring an extra leaf on the corn stalk. These varieties, known as the “Extra Leaf High” and “Extra Leaf Low,” are highly collectible, with prices ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on condition.
| Quarter | Year | Mintage | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | 6,146 | Up to $1.74 million |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | 15 | Over $35 million |
| 1913-S Barber Quarter | 1913 | 40,000 | Up to $1,800 |
| 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter | 1927 | 396,000 | Thousands of dollars |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | 1932 | 436,800 | Over $89,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter | 1932 | 408,000 | Thousands of dollars |
| 1950-D/S Washington Quarter | 1950 | N/A | Varies by condition |
| 1970-S Washington Quarter (Error) | 1970 | N/A | Thousands of dollars |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf) | 2004 | N/A | $500 – $1,500+ |
FAQs
Why are some quarters so valuable?
The value of a quarter depends on factors like rarity, historical significance, minting errors, and condition. Coins with low mintages, unique errors, or those in exceptional condition often command higher prices.
How can I determine the value of my quarter?
Consulting a professional coin appraiser or referencing reputable coin value guides can help determine a coin’s value. Factors such as mint mark, year, condition, and any unique features are crucial in the assessment.
What is a minting error, and why does it increase a coin’s value?
A minting error occurs when a coin is incorrectly produced, resulting in anomalies like misstrikes or additional features. These errors are often rare, making the coins more desirable to collectors and increasing their value.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Rare coins can be sold through auctions, coin dealers, or online marketplaces. It’s advisable to have the coin appraised and to research potential buyers to ensure a fair transaction.
