Most quarters are worth just 25 cents, but a rare few have become prized collector’s items worth tens of thousands—or even millions—of dollars. One such standout is the Bicentennial Quarter valued at a jaw-dropping $8.9 million. But it’s not alone. There are other incredibly rare quarters out there that have fetched over $88,888 on the open market. Here’s what makes them so special—and how to spot one in your own collection.
The $8.9 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. While most are common, one ultra-rare specimen sold for $8.9 million due to a combination of remarkable features:
Why It’s So Valuable:
- Struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel.
- Proof-like strike with sharp, mirrored surfaces.
- Double die obverse error—letters and numbers appear slightly doubled.
- Flawless condition graded MS-69 or higher.
- Only one known to exist with this precise combination of errors and quality.
This coin represents the holy grail of modern U.S. quarters and remains unmatched in value.
6 More Rare Quarters Worth Over $88,888
These quarters may not hit the multimillion-dollar mark, but they’re still worth a small fortune thanks to rarity, minting errors, and condition. Here are six worth watching for:
1. 1932-D Washington Quarter
- Value: Up to $143,750
- Why It’s Valuable: First year of the Washington quarter and low mintage (just 436,800).
- How to Identify: Look for a “D” mintmark on the reverse below the wreath.
2. 1932-S Washington Quarter
- Value: Over $100,000 in MS condition
- Why It’s Valuable: Another key date with low mintage (only 408,000).
- Tip: These are often faked, so professional grading is crucial for authenticity.
3. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter (High or Low Leaf)
- Value: Up to $130,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Features an extra leaf on the corn stalk—an unintentional mint error.
- Where It’s Found: Look on the reverse in the corn design; the leaf curves oddly compared to standard quarters.
4. 1943-S Washington Quarter (Silver)
- Value: Over $90,000
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare proof-like strike in pristine condition with limited surviving examples.
- Interesting Fact: Some versions struck on experimental planchets command higher prices.
5. 1970-S Washington Quarter (Struck on Canadian Coin)
- Value: $88,888+
- Why It’s Valuable: Minted on a Canadian 1941 silver quarter planchet by mistake.
- How to Spot It: Thinner than a typical U.S. quarter and has Canadian traits under magnification.
6. 1964-D Washington Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
- Value: Over $100,000 in MS condition
- Why It’s Valuable: Features doubling in the word “LIBERTY” and the date.
- Grading Matters: High-grade examples with strong doubling are extremely valuable.
How to Spot a Rare Quarter in Your Pocket
Before you toss that change in the jar, keep an eye out for these clues:
- Unusual thickness, color, or weight
- Doubling on letters or numbers
- Strange or missing mintmarks
- Dates from key low-mintage years like 1932, 1964, or 1976
- Proof-like or uncirculated condition
If you suspect a coin might be rare, have it professionally appraised or graded. Grading agencies like PCGS and NGC can confirm authenticity and potentially boost its market value.
Final Thoughts
While most Bicentennial Quarters are only worth face value, that $8.9 million gem proves there are exceptions. Add in six more quarters valued at over $88,888, and it’s clear—pocket change could hide life-changing treasure.
So next time you’re handed a quarter in change, take a second look. That humble coin might be worth more than a luxury car.