Coins, often overlooked in the hustle of everyday transactions, can hold far more value than their face value suggests. For coin collectors and numismatists, certain rare coins are worth fortunes — with some pieces fetching millions of dollars at auctions.
Take, for example, the Bicentennial Quarter, a coin minted in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. While most of these quarters are worth just 25 cents, one rare Doubled Die Error Bicentennial Quarter was recently appraised at nearly $44 million USD.
And this isn’t the only coin worth a small fortune. In this blog, we’ll highlight the Bicentennial Quarter and 6 other rare coins that are worth over $799,999 and could be hiding in your spare change.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $44 Million USD
The Bicentennial Quarter, first minted in 1976, was part of a special series released to mark the United States’ 200th anniversary.
The design, featuring the Liberty Bell and a drummer boy, is distinctive, setting the coin apart from the regular Washington Quarters. While millions were minted, most of these coins are still in circulation today and worth only their face value.
However, a Doubled Die Error on a small number of these quarters makes some of them worth millions. A Doubled Die error occurs when the coin is struck more than once, causing the design to appear slightly duplicated or blurry.
This error typically affects the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions, which become visibly distorted.
One particular example of the Bicentennial Quarter featuring this Doubled Die Error recently fetched a staggering $44 million USD at auction. The exact reasons behind the error are still debated, but collectors are willing to pay top dollar for such unique and rare pieces.
These error coins are prized because they are extremely scarce, and finding one in mint condition is nearly impossible.
6 More Rare Coins Worth Over $799,999
If you think the Bicentennial Quarter is the only coin with hidden value, think again. Here are 6 more rare coins that are valued at $799,999 or more. These treasures may still be lurking in your pocket, so keep your eyes peeled for any rare finds.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Estimated Value: $4.5 million+
- The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and rare U.S. coins. It was never officially released by the U.S. Mint, yet five known examples exist today. The rarity and historical intrigue behind the Liberty Head Nickel have made it one of the most coveted coins by collectors. One of these coins sold for $4.5 million at an auction, making it a true numismatic gem.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $20 million+
- The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle is considered one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history. Most of the coins minted that year were ordered to be melted down during the Great Depression, but a few survived. One such coin was sold for $20 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold.
3. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Estimated Value: $1.8 million+
- The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a highly prized coin, primarily due to its extremely low mintage. Only a small number of these coins were minted in 1893 at the San Francisco Mint, and most of them have disappeared into private collections. In pristine condition, this coin can be worth upwards of $1.8 million USD.
4. 1943 Copper Penny
- Estimated Value: $1.7 million+
- The 1943 Copper Penny is another famous error coin. Most pennies produced in 1943 were made from steel to conserve copper during World War II. However, a small number of copper pennies were mistakenly struck, making them incredibly rare and valuable. One of these pennies sold for over $1.7 million USD, and others continue to fetch high prices at auction.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
- Estimated Value: $3.8 million+
- The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar is one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. Only 15 examples are known to exist, and each one can fetch millions of dollars. The rarity and historical importance of this coin make it a favorite among collectors, with one example recently selling for $3.8 million USD.
6. 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $3 million+
- The 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a striking coin known for its intricate design and high relief, which was difficult to strike due to the depth of the design. Only a limited number of these coins were minted, and they remain highly sought after by collectors. In high grade, this coin can be worth over $3 million USD.
| Coin | Minted | Estimated Value | Key Identifying Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1976 | Up to $44 million | Doubled or blurry text on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million+ | Never officially minted, only five known examples |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | $20 million+ | Gold coin, most melted down during the Great Depression |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 |
How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
The most valuable Bicentennial Quarters feature a Doubled Die Error. Look for doubled or blurry text, especially on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If these appear distorted or shifted, your coin could be worth a lot more than face value.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was never officially released by the U.S. Mint, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins. Only five are known to exist, and they have fetched millions of dollars at auction due to their rarity and historical significance.
Are there any other rare coins from the 1940s worth money?
Yes, the 1943 Copper Penny is an example of a rare and valuable coin from the 1940s. Most pennies minted that year were made of steel, but a small number were struck in copper, making them highly sought after by collectors.