Bicentennial quarters are some of the most sought-after coins by collectors today. These coins, minted to celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary in 1976, have gained significant attention due to their limited release and unique design.
Some rare Bicentennial quarters have sold for as much as $85,000, making them a treasure for numismatists. But these aren’t the only valuable coins in circulation. Here are six more rare coins that can fetch a fortune.
Bicentennial Quarter
The rare Bicentennial quarter, minted to commemorate the U.S. 200th anniversary, stands out for its dual-dated design (1776–1976). While most of these coins hold minimal value, certain rare varieties, including those with minting errors or unique characteristics, have fetched up to $85,000 at auctions. Collectors seek out coins in pristine condition, especially those made of silver or struck with errors, increasing their value dramatically.
6 More Coins Worth a Fortune
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and rarest coins in U.S. history. Only five of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely valuable. This nickel was produced without official authorization, but its rarity has made it a prized possession. In private sales, these nickels have sold for over $3 million, placing them among the most expensive coins ever sold.
2. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Considered one of the first silver dollars minted in the U.S., the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is highly prized for its historical significance. This coin represents the dawn of American coinage, making it one of the most valuable collectibles. Depending on its condition, this coin has sold for as much as $10 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins globally.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar is known as the “King of American Coins” due to its rarity and high demand among collectors. Although minted in 1834 as part of diplomatic gift sets, these coins carry the 1804 date, creating confusion and fascination. These rare coins have fetched millions at auction, making them a dream for collectors worldwide.
4. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a legendary gold coin with a complex legal history. While most of the 445,000 coins minted were melted down before release, a few escaped the furnace and ended up in the hands of collectors. One of these coins sold for a record-breaking $18.9 million in 2021, solidifying its status as one of the most valuable coins in the world.
5. 1943 Copper Penny
In 1943, during World War II, pennies were made of steel to preserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly minted, making them incredibly rare. These copper pennies are highly coveted by collectors and have sold for over $200,000 at auctions. Their unique history and scarcity make them a prized collectible.
6. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest dimes in existence, with only 24 ever minted. Of these, only nine are known to still exist today. This scarcity has driven the value of this coin sky-high, with some selling for up to $2 million. Collectors eagerly seek this rare dime, making it a valuable addition to any coin collection.
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Material | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $85,000 | Copper-Nickel | Dual-dated design, errors |
| Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $3 million+ | Nickel | Unauthorized minting, only five exist |
| Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million+ | Silver | First U.S. silver dollar |
| Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | $4 million+ | Silver | Minted in 1834, rare issue |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $18.9 million | Gold | Legal history, rarity |
| Copper Penny | 1943 | $200,000+ | Copper | Wartime minting error |
| Barber Dime | 1894 | $2 million+ | Silver | Only nine known to exist |
While many coins in circulation hold minimal value, these rare examples demonstrate how a combination of historical significance, rarity, and condition can make certain coins worth a fortune. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, knowing which coins to look out for can be incredibly rewarding.
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial quarter so valuable?
The value of the Bicentennial quarter stems from its rarity, minting errors, and unique features such as its silver composition. Quarters in mint condition with errors have sold for up to $85,000.
How can I tell if I have a rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Only five of these nickels are known to exist, and their authenticity can be verified through professional coin grading services. If you suspect you have one, it’s recommended to have it appraised by an expert.
Why is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so valuable?
The 1933 Double Eagle’s value lies in its rarity and complex legal history. Most were melted down, but a few escaped, with one selling for $18.9 million, setting a world record.
Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No, only the 1943 copper pennies are valuable due to their minting error. The majority of 1943 pennies were made of steel, and these are not worth nearly as much.
How can I preserve the value of my rare coins?
To maintain their value, keep rare coins in protective cases and avoid handling them directly. Store them in a cool, dry place, and consider having them professionally graded to authenticate their condition.