Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a fascinating hobby that combines history, artistry, and the thrill of discovery.
Among the myriad coins coveted by collectors, some stand out not just for their rarity but for their staggering value.
One such example is the Bicentennial Quarter, a coin with a storied past and an astronomical price tag.
This article delves into the details of this extraordinary quarter, valued at nearly $28 million USD, and explores four other coins, each worth over $750,000.
The $28 Million Bicentennial Quarter
A Coin with a Legacy
The Bicentennial Quarter, released in 1976, commemorated the 200th anniversary of American independence.
It is a part of a special series that included redesigns of the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coins.
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter so unique and valuable is its rarity and the specific errors associated with it.
The Unique Attributes
The $28 million Bicentennial Quarter is a marvel due to several rare attributes.
Most notably, this coin was struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel clad
composition used for circulation. This alone makes it extremely rare.
However, the coin also features a double die obverse, a minting error where the design elements appear slightly duplicated.
Such errors add significantly to the coin’s value, especially when combined with its historical significance and pristine condition.
Historical Significance
The Bicentennial Quarter features a special design with a colonial drummer on the reverse and the dual date “1776-1976” on the obverse.
This design was selected through a national competition, further adding to its historical and cultural value.
The quarter’s significance is not just in its commemoration of the bicentennial but also in its representation of American heritage and pride.
The Record-Breaking Auction
This particular Bicentennial Quarter fetched nearly $28 million at auction, a testament to its unparalleled rarity and the fervor it inspires among collectors.
The combination of its unique composition, minting errors, and historical importance make it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
The 1932-D Washington Quarter
A Historic Commemorative Coin
Valued at over $1 million, the 1932-D Washington Quarter is another prized coin among collectors.
This quarter was initially issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth.
Its introduction marked the beginning of the Washington quarter series, which has since become a staple of American coinage.
The Mint Mark and Its Rarity
The most valuable of the 1932 Washington Quarters are those minted in Denver, identifiable by the small “D” mint mark.
Only a limited number of these quarters were produced, making them exceedingly rare.
The Denver mint produced just 436,800 of these quarters, significantly fewer than other mints, which adds to their desirability and value.
The Appeal to Collectors
Collectors prize the 1932-D Washington Quarter for its historical significance, its role in the broader Washington quarter series, and its rarity.
Coins in excellent condition, especially those with a high grade from coin grading services, can fetch prices well over $1 million at auction.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
An Early American Treasure
Valued at approximately $1.5 million, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a cornerstone of early American numismatics.
This quarter was among the first ever minted by the United States, making it a significant piece of American history.
Design and Rarity
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter features a design by renowned engraver Robert Scot.
The obverse shows Lady Liberty with flowing hair, while the reverse depicts a small eagle surrounded by a wreath.
Only 6,146 of these coins were minted, contributing to their extreme rarity.
Many of these coins have been lost or damaged over the years, further increasing the value of those that remain in good condition.
Historical Context
Minted during the early years of the United States, the 1796 Draped Bust Quarter represents the fledgling nation’s effort to establish a stable currency system.
Its design and production reflect the artistry and challenges of the era, making it a fascinating coin for historians and collectors alike.
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
The King of American Coins
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, often referred to as the “King of American Coins,” is valued at over $750,000. Although the coin bears the date 1804, none were actually minted that year.
Instead, these coins were struck in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts, making them both historically and numismatically significant.
A Rare and Illustrious Coin
Only 15 known examples of the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar exist, divided into three classes based on their minting periods and characteristics.
The rarity of this coin, combined with its storied past, contributes to its high value.
Collectors and historians prize the 1804 dollar for its elegance and the mystery surrounding its creation.
Auction Records
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar has set multiple auction records, with some specimens selling for over $4 million.
However, even lesser-known examples can easily fetch over $750,000, depending on their condition and provenance.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
A Numismatic Mystery
Valued at over $4 million, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is shrouded in mystery and intrigue.
Only five specimens are known to exist, and their origin remains a topic of debate among numismatists.
These nickels were not officially authorized for minting, leading to speculation about how they were produced.
The Famous Five
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Head Nickels has its own unique history and provenance.
They are named after their first known owners: the Eliasberg, the Norweb, the Olsen, the McDermott, and the Walton specimens.
These coins have changed hands among some of the most famous collectors in the world, adding to their allure and value.
Auction Highlights
The rarity and mystique of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel have driven its value to astounding heights.
Individual specimens have sold for over $4 million at auction, with the most recent sales drawing significant attention from collectors and the media alike.
Conclusion
The world of rare coins is rich with history, artistry, and intrigue.
The nearly $28 million Bicentennial Quarter and the four other coins worth over $750,000 each tell stories
of America’s past, reflect the craftsmanship of their time, and ignite the passion of collectors worldwide.
These coins are more than just currency; they are treasured artifacts that encapsulate moments in history and continue to captivate those who seek them out.
For coin collectors, these rare finds represent the pinnacle of their hobby, offering both a tangible
connection to the past and the thrill of owning something truly extraordinary.