Coin collecting is more than just a hobby; for some, it’s an investment with the potential to yield big returns. U.S. quarters, in particular, have captivated collectors for decades, with some rare pieces fetching significant sums at auction.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, knowing which quarters are the most valuable could help you uncover a hidden treasure in your own collection.
Here are the top 9 most valuable quarters, their unique characteristics, and what makes them so sought after.
9 Most Valuable Quarters You Need to Know About
1. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
This is the first quarter ever minted by the United States, making it a cornerstone of any collection. With only 6,146 minted, it is incredibly rare. Collectors treasure the historical significance of this coin, which features Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
Estimated Value: Up to $12,000 (in good condition)
2. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
Although not as rare as the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, the 1804 version still has historical significance and scarcity. Only 6,738 were minted, and surviving examples in good condition can be worth thousands.
Estimated Value: Up to $5,500
3. 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter
The “Curl Base 2” refers to a unique design feature in the denomination. With very few of these valuable quarters in existence, it is a prized piece for serious collectors. Most examples are in worn condition, but uncirculated coins can fetch astronomical prices.
Estimated Value: Over $300,000 (in uncirculated condition)
4. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber quarter is the rarest in the Barber series, with a mintage of only 72,664. Its scarcity in high grades makes it a hot commodity among collectors. Finding this coin in mint condition is extremely difficult.
Estimated Value: Up to $5,200
5. 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter
Produced by the Carson City Mint, this quarter had a mintage of only 8,340, making it one of the scarcest and Valuable quarters from the 19th century. Finding one in good condition is a collector’s dream.
Estimated Value: Around $10,000
6. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
This coin is famous for its design, featuring Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch. With a mintage of only 52,000, it’s not just the low production that makes it valuable; the original design sparked controversy as it exposed Liberty’s right breast, which was later altered in subsequent issues.
Estimated Value: $2,850 (in good condition)
7. 1965 MS67+ Washington Quarter
This quarter is notable for its pristine condition. Graded MS67+ by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), it represents the highest grade for a 1965 Washington quarter, making it extremely rare.
Estimated Value: $12,500
8. 1971-S Washington Quarter (Deep Cameo Proof)
Quarters minted at the San Francisco Mint in proof condition are particularly valuable, especially when they feature a “Deep Cameo” effect. This coin, graded PR68, is one of the rarest proof quarters in existence.
Estimated Value: Around $3,000
9. 1982 Washington Quarter
This modern quarter gained value due to its rarity in high-grade Mint State (MS) condition. The U.S. Mint didn’t produce any standard mint sets in 1982 and 1983, making uncirculated examples hard to come by.
Estimated Value: $4,465 (in Mint State condition)
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Up to $12,000 | First U.S. quarter minted, limited mintage of 6,146 |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | Up to $5,500 | Historical significance, only 6,738 minted |
| 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter | 1827 | Over $300,000 | Unique “Curl Base 2” design, extremely rare |
| 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter | 1870 | $10,000 | Carson City Mint, low mintage of 8,340 |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | 1901 | Up to $5,200 | Rarest Barber quarter, only 72,664 minted |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | $2,850 | First-year type, controversial design |
| 1965 MS67+ Washington Quarter | 1965 | $12,500 | Highest graded Washington quarter from 1965 |
| 1971-S Washington Quarter (Deep Cameo) | 1971 | $3,000 | Deep Cameo proof, rare proof condition |
| 1982 Washington Quarter | 1982 | $4,465 | Rare Mint State condition due to lack of mint sets |
Conclusion
Quarters might be a common part of everyday transactions, but some are worth far more than their face value. From early U.S. quarters like the 1796 Draped Bust to more modern rarities like the 1982 Washington Quarter, collectors can find treasures hiding in plain sight.
Understanding what makes these coins valuable—whether it’s rarity, condition, or historical significance—can turn a simple quarter into a collector’s dream. So, take a closer look at your spare change; you might just discover a hidden gem!
FAQs
1. What makes a quarter valuable?
The value of a quarter is primarily determined by its rarity, historical significance, and condition. Coins with low mintages or unique design elements tend to fetch higher prices.
2. How can I tell if my quarter is valuable?
Look for key features such as the mint mark, year, and condition. Professional grading by services like PCGS can help determine the coin’s true value.
3. Where can I sell my valuable quarters?
You can sell your rare quarters through auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay. It’s advisable to get your coins appraised first.
4. Should I clean my valuable quarters?
No, cleaning rare coins can reduce their value. Always store them in protective cases and handle them carefully to preserve their condition.
5. How can I start collecting valuable quarters?
Start by researching key dates, mint marks, and conditions that make a quarter valuable. Joining a coin collectors’ group or seeking advice from numismatists can also help.
References
- Bold Precious Metals, “Top 9 Most Valuable Quarters You Should Know”
- Coin Values, “The Top 25 Most Valuable U.S. Quarters”
- L&C Coins, “9 Most Valuable US Quarters”
- DMG Energy News, “Rare Quarters Expected to Increase in Value”