You might have a fortune hiding in your loose change. Some quarters in circulation are worth far more than their 25-cent face value, with a few fetching millions at auctions. These rare coins, from early designs to modern errors, are treasures for collectors. Here’s a look at eight of the most valuable quarters you could find in your pocket, along with what makes them so special.
Rare Gems from the Early Days
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a collector’s dream, with only 6,146 made. Its small mintage and age make it a rarity, with top-condition coins selling for over $1.74 million in 2022. Another early gem is the 1804 Draped Bust Quarter, with a mintage of 6,738. In pristine condition, it can fetch up to $500,000. These coins, featuring Lady Liberty and a heraldic eagle, are hard to find in circulation but are worth checking your old coin jars for.
Errors That Skyrocket Value
Minting errors can turn ordinary quarters into goldmines. The 1932-D Washington Quarter, with a low mintage of 436,800, is a key date for collectors. In uncirculated condition, it can sell for over $100,000. The 1964-D Washington Quarter with a double die obverse error is another big one. Its doubled design, especially on “Liberty” or the date, can push its value to $20,000 or more in top grades. These errors make every quarter worth a second look.
State Quarters with Big Paydays
The 50 State Quarters program, running from 1999 to 2008, produced some surprising treasures. The 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with an extra leaf on the corn stalk is a famous error. In mint condition, it can sell for up to $1,000. The 1999-P Delaware State Quarter, struck on an experimental alloy for the Sacagawea dollar, is another rare find. One sold for $4,888 in top condition. These modern quarters show that even recent coins can be valuable.
| Coin | Key Feature | Estimated Value (Top Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1796 Draped Bust | Low mintage (6,146) | $1.74 million+ |
| 1804 Draped Bust | Low mintage (6,738) | $500,000 |
| 1932-D Washington | Low mintage (436,800) | $100,000+ |
| 1964-D Double Die | Double die obverse error | $20,000+ |
| 2004-D Wisconsin | Extra leaf error | $1,000 |
| 1999-P Delaware | Experimental alloy | $4,888 |
| 1870-CC Seated Liberty | Low mintage (8,340) | $150,000+ |
| 1916 Standing Liberty | Low mintage (52,000) | $172,500+ |
Silver Quarters Still Out There
Before 1965, quarters were made of 90% silver, giving them a base value of about $4 today due to their metal content. The 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter, with just 8,340 minted, is a rare silver coin that can sell for $150,000 in good condition. The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter, with a mintage of 52,000, is another silver beauty. Uncirculated examples have sold for $172,500. These silver quarters are scarce but can still pop up in old collections or change.
Why These Coins Are Hot Now
The hunt for valuable quarters is hotter than ever, fueled by social media buzz on platforms like X and recent auction headlines. Collectors are scouring pocket change for these rare finds, and stories of big sales are inspiring more people to join the hobby. Whether it’s an old silver quarter or a modern error coin, the thrill of finding a million-dollar quarter keeps collectors excited. Check your change carefully you might be holding a small fortune.
How to Start Your Treasure Hunt
Want to find these valuable quarters? Start by examining your coins for key dates like 1796, 1804, or 1932, or for errors like extra leaves or doubled designs. Use a magnifying glass to spot details, and check with a coin dealer for an appraisal. Online resources like CoinValueChecker.com or JM Bullion can help you learn more. With a little luck and a sharp eye, that quarter in your pocket could be your ticket to a big payday.