The scarce and valuable realm of coins is rich with thrilling stories and staggering prices. Included in the coins that have dominated the headlines recently is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, which was auctioned off for a record-breaking $73 million USD.
This sale was witnessed by collectors and investors alike, and it was a sign that even the smallest of coins can be of monumental worth. The Bicentennial Quarter is, however, just one of a few coins to sell for record amounts.
In this article, we’ll look into the history and value of the Bicentennial Quarter and uncover four other rare coins worth over $999,999. From minting errors to limited production runs, these coins highlight the astonishing potential of numismatics.
Overview
| Coin | Year Minted | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $73 million | Struck on half-dollar planchets by error |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Over $3 million | Only five ever minted; unauthorized production |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Over $1 million | Accidentally struck in copper during WWII |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | Over $7 million | Rare survivors of a government gold recall |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | Over $10 million | Believed to be the first U.S. dollar coin |
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to honor the 200th anniversary of the United States. Its unique design features a colonial drummer on the reverse, along with double dates “1776–1976.” The majority of Bicentennial Quarters are common and only worth face value, but a special series of these coins are valuable due to a minting error.
What Makes It So Valuable?
A few of the Bicentennial Quarters were inadvertently struck on half-dollar planchets, making them slightly larger than usual quarters. This mistake is so infrequent that it is now a prized collector’s item.
Such a specimen recently set history as it was sold for $73 million, becoming one of the most expensive coins ever sold. The uniqueness of this error and the historic value of the Bicentennial celebration have helped to give it such a phenomenal price.
Four More Uncommon Coins Sold for Over $999,999
Although the Bicentennial Quarter is impressive, there have been a few other coins auctioned off for comparable prices. Following are four other coins that were auctioned for over $999,999.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is the rarest US coin ever produced, with five specimens known in total. They were produced unilaterally without any authority to do so and hence are a numismatic oddity. The nickels have attained mythical status in the view of collectors as they are cryptic and exceedingly rare.
One of the nickels was worth over $3 million and is considered one of the most valuable coins ever produced.
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, when the United States joined the war, the U.S. Mint had to switch from copper to steel to make pennies so they could conserve materials for the war. Some of the Copper Pennies from 1943 were mistakenly produced with copper instead of steel.
These pennies of error are scarce and are among the most sought-after coins in the world. One of them was sold for over $1 million, which is among the most expensive pennies ever minted in the United States.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle is one of the most intriguing coins in U.S. history. Although over 400,000 of the coins were produced, the great majority were destroyed after they were issued a government mandate in the midst of the Great Depression.
Few of the coins are in private hands today. One sold for over $7 million, and even less perfect specimens routinely sell for over $1 million.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is the first dollar coin struck by the United States. The coin’s historical significance and rarity render it priceless to collectors.
One of these coins was auctioned for a record price of $10 million in 2013, ranking as one of the highest-priced U.S. coins ever.
Exotic coins like the Bicentennial Quarter and these other antique treasures prove that even small pieces of metal can be worth a lot of money. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or you’re just starting out, knowing the history and rarity of these coins might lead you to a fortune.
FAQ’s
Q. Why is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter so rare?
A. Some were struck unintentionally on half-dollar planchets, and they are collector’s items of value.
Q. How can I determine if I have a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
A. Check for differences in size; coins minted on half-dollar planchets are slightly larger than normal quarters.
Q. What is the rarest U.S. coin ever auctioned?
A. The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar brought $10 million, which ranks it as one of the rarest.
Q. How do I sell a rare coin?
A. You can sell rare coins through certified coin dealers, auction houses, or online websites.
Q. Where do I authenticate my coin?
A. Your coin can be authenticated and graded by professional grading services like NGC and PCGS.
Related posts:
5 Rare Dimes and a Bicentennial Quarter Worth $500 Million—Check Your Change
Rare Dime and Bicentennial Quarter Valued at $500 Million
Rare Dimes and Bicentennial Quarters That Could Be Worth Billions
The $29 Million Bicentennial Quarter—Plus 6 Coins Worth a Staggering $52 Million
Rare dimes and bicentennial quarters sold for millions
5 Rare Diamonds and a Bicentennial Quarter That Could Be Worth Up to $15 Million!
Rare Wheat Penny Error Coins That Can Be Worth Up To $200,000!
Rare Dimes and Bicentennial Quarters: Hidden Treasures
Hidden Wealth: Rare Dimes and Bicentennial Quarters That Could Be Worth Billions
These Rare Dimes & Quarters Could Be Worth Millions – Check Your Coins!
The $99,000 1999 South Carolina State Quarter
Check Your Bicentennial Coin – It Might Be Worth Millions!