Rarest Quarters: Did you know that some of the rarest quarters in U.S. history are worth more than a luxury car—or even a house? While most quarters are only good for vending machines or parking meters, a few are worth thousands, even millions, of dollars to collectors. These valuable coins are rare due to mistakes during minting, limited production runs, or unique historical significance. For coin collectors and curious enthusiasts alike, discovering one of these quarters could be like hitting the jackpot.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 rarest quarters that could make you incredibly rich. We’ll dive into the history, unique features, and jaw-dropping sale prices of these coins. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about the value of your spare change, this list might inspire you to take a closer look at your coin jar.
Overview Table: Top 10 Rarest Quarters and Their Values
| Quarter | Key Features | Top Sale Price |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | Not actually made in 1804; few exist | Over $2 million |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | Low mintage of 52,000 | $144,000 |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter (Low Mintage) | Only 436,800 made | $70,000 |
| 1932-S Washington Quarter (Low Mintage) | Even lower mintage of 408,000 | $97,750 |
| 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter | Date error with 2 over 3 | $96,000 |
| 1827 Capped Bust Quarter | Extremely low mintage of 4,000 | $92,000 |
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | First U.S. quarter, low mintage | $85,000 |
| 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Error) | Made from silver by mistake | $46,000 |
| 1805 Draped Bust Quarter | Low availability in good condition | $42,000 |
| 1970-S Washington Quarter (No S Mint Mark) | Missing mint mark error | $35,000 |
1. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the most coveted coins in U.S. history. Despite its date, this quarter was not actually struck in 1804. Instead, it was minted later as part of special presentation sets for diplomats. With only a handful ever made, this coin’s rarity is legendary. In pristine condition, it has sold for over $2 million at auctions, making it the crown jewel for those seeking the rarest quarters.
2. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Minted for just one year, the 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is a favorite among collectors. With only 52,000 produced, this quarter’s scarcity drives its value sky-high. Its beautiful design, featuring Lady Liberty holding an olive branch and a shield, makes it even more desirable. A top-quality example once fetched $144,000, proving that the rarest quarters can truly make you rich.
3. 1932-D Washington Quarter (Low Mintage)
Created to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the 1932-D Washington Quarter had a mintage of just 436,800. While that might sound like a lot, it’s actually quite low for a U.S. coin. Finding one in excellent condition can be a real challenge, and collectors are willing to pay up to $70,000 for a near-perfect piece.
4. 1932-S Washington Quarter (Low Mintage)
Even rarer than its Denver counterpart, the 1932-S Washington Quarter had a mintage of just 408,000. Its scarcity, combined with historical significance, makes it one of the rarest quarters you can find. A top-grade version of this coin sold for nearly $100,000, showing just how valuable a single quarter can be.
5. 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
What makes the 1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter so valuable is a small mistake—the date shows a “3” stamped over a “2”. This kind of error, known as an overdate, is highly prized by collectors. In 2021, one of these rare quarters sold for $96,000. Errors like these turn ordinary coins into valuable collectibles almost overnight.
6. 1827 Capped Bust Quarter
With only 4,000 ever made, the 1827 Capped Bust Quarter is a true gem for collectors. Today, fewer than 100 are believed to exist. The rarity of this coin, combined with its classic design, has led to auction prices as high as $92,000. It’s a perfect example of how the rarest quarters can fetch small fortunes.
7. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
As the first quarter ever minted by the United States, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter holds immense historical significance. With a mintage of only 6,146, this coin is as rare as it is important. A well-preserved example sold for $85,000 recently, proving that historical value and rarity are a powerful combination.
8. 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Error)
Most quarters minted after 1964 were made from copper-nickel, but a few 1965 Washington Quarters were mistakenly struck on silver blanks. These error coins are extremely rare and can sell for up to $46,000. For a coin that looks almost identical to the one in your pocket, that’s an impressive price tag!
9. 1805 Draped Bust Quarter
Despite a mintage of about 120,000, the 1805 Draped Bust Quarter is rare in high grades. Many of these coins were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples hard to find. One of these quarters sold for $42,000, proving that age and condition are everything when it comes to the rarest quarters.
10. 1970-S Washington Quarter (No S Mint Mark)
This proof coin was supposed to have an “S” mint mark indicating it was struck in San Francisco, but a few were mistakenly minted without it. This error makes the 1970-S Washington Quarter one of the rarest quarters of modern times. One sold for $35,000 at auction, proving that even modern coins can hold incredible value.
Why These Quarters Are Worth So Much
The rarest quarters command high prices due to a mix of scarcity, condition, historical importance, and minting errors. Coins with errors or limited production runs are particularly valuable, while those in mint condition can fetch significantly higher prices than worn versions. Collectors prize these coins not just for their rarity, but also for the stories they tell about American history and coinage.
Could You Find a Rich Quarter?
It might sound far-fetched, but discovering one of these rarest quarters in your spare change isn’t impossible. Coin rolls from banks, estate sales, or even old collections might hide valuable treasures. If you stumble across a quarter that looks unusual, it’s worth having it evaluated by a coin expert.
Final Thoughts
The 10 rarest quarters prove that even a simple coin can be worth a fortune. From historical pieces to modern minting mistakes, these coins show how valuable small details can be. So next time you dig through your change, take a second look—you might just strike it rich!
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