Most people don’t think twice about the quarters in their pockets, but some of these coins are worth life-changing amounts of money. Rare quarters with minting errors, limited production runs, or historical significance have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions. Could you be unknowingly holding one of these treasures? Here are three rare quarters that have recently sold for insane prices!
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter – Sold for $143,750
The 1932-D Washington Quarter was part of the first batch of Washington quarters ever minted. Because only 436,800 of these coins were produced in Denver, it’s incredibly rare. If you find one in good condition, it could be worth thousands. A near-perfect MS66-grade example sold for $143,750 at auction, proving that early Washington quarters can be a collector’s dream.
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver Proof) – Sold for $120,000
The Bicentennial Quarter, celebrating America’s 200th birthday, is common—except for a few rare silver proof versions. A 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter struck in 40% silver and in pristine condition sold for a mind-blowing $120,000! This special coin, when graded at PR70 Deep Cameo, is one of the most desirable Bicentennial quarters ever found.
3. 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter – Sold for $74,750
The 1950-D/S Washington Quarter is unique because it features an overmintmark error, where the Denver Mint stamp (D) was placed over an earlier San Francisco Mint stamp (S). This minting mistake makes it a rare collector’s item. One of the highest-graded examples recently fetched $74,750 at auction, proving that mint errors can make a quarter insanely valuable.
Quarters may seem like everyday pocket change, but certain rare varieties have been selling for jaw-dropping prices. Whether it’s the 1932-D Washington Quarter, the Silver Bicentennial Quarter, or the 1950-D/S Overmintmark Quarter, these coins are worth far more than their face value. If you have old quarters, it might be time to check your collection—you could be sitting on a hidden fortune!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my quarter is rare?
Look for key dates, mint marks, and errors such as overstrikes, doubled dies, or missing elements. Getting your coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC can confirm its rarity and value.
2. Where can I sell a valuable quarter?
You can sell rare quarters through auction houses like Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, or reputable coin dealers. Online platforms like eBay are also options, but be sure to verify buyer authenticity.
3. Can valuable quarters still be found in circulation?
It’s rare but possible! People unknowingly spend valuable coins all the time, so checking pocket change, old piggy banks, and coin rolls could lead to an exciting discovery.
4. Should I clean my old quarter before selling it?
No! Cleaning a rare coin can reduce its value significantly by removing its natural patina. If you believe you have a valuable coin, take it to a professional coin appraiser.
5. What makes a quarter valuable?
A quarter’s value is based on rarity, condition, minting errors, and historical significance. The fewer that exist, and the better the condition, the more valuable it becomes.
