Coins are often seen as mere pocket change, their true value only understood when you need them to buy a quick snack or pay for bus fare. But for avid collectors and numismatists, some coins hold extraordinary value that far exceeds their face value — sometimes by millions of dollars.
Among these hidden gems is the Bicentennial Quarter, a coin originally minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, but which has become one of the most coveted rare coins in circulation.
One specific Bicentennial Quarter, along with a few other rare coins, could be worth millions — yes, even up to $65 million! While you might not expect to find a fortune in your loose change, it’s worth checking your coins carefully.
In this blog, we will explore the rare Bicentennial Quarter and other coins that could be hiding in your collection, worth $999,999 or more.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $65 Million USD
The Bicentennial Quarter, which was minted in 1976 to mark the U.S. Bicentennial, features a unique design that replaced the traditional eagle with the Liberty Bell and a drummer boy. However, only a few of these quarters are valuable. Among them, the rarest is the Doubled Die Error Bicentennial Quarter.
A Doubled Die Error occurs when a coin is struck multiple times, resulting in double images or blurred features.
In the case of the Bicentennial Quarter, the error affects the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” which appear slightly doubled or blurry on the coin. These types of errors are very rare, and the coins that exhibit them are highly prized by collectors.
One of these rare Doubled Die Error Bicentennial Quarters has recently been valued at nearly $65 million USD. While this is the extreme end of the spectrum, even other examples of this error can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and rarity.
The sheer rarity and historical significance of this coin make it one of the most valuable in American history.
8 More Rare Coins Worth Over $999,999 You Should Know About
In addition to the Bicentennial Quarter, there are several other rare coins that could be worth a small fortune. Here are eight more coins, each worth over $999,999, that could be hiding in your coin jar:
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Estimated Value: $4.5 million+
- This iconic coin was never officially minted, making it one of the most famous coins in U.S. numismatic history. Only five known examples exist, making it extraordinarily rare and valuable.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $20 million+
- The 1933 Gold Double Eagle is one of the most valuable U.S. coins. Most of the 1933 mintage was melted down after President Roosevelt took the U.S. off the gold standard. Only a handful escaped the melt, making them highly sought after.
3. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Estimated Value: $1.8 million+
- The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is known for its low mintage and high demand. The few that are in excellent condition fetch prices over a million dollars.
4. 1943 Copper Penny
- Estimated Value: $1.7 million+
- Most 1943 pennies were made from steel due to copper shortages during World War II. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly minted, making them highly valuable.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
- Estimated Value: $3.8 million+
- Often called the “King of U.S. Coins,” the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar is one of the most iconic and expensive coins in U.S. numismatic history. Only 15 examples are known to exist.
6. 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- Estimated Value: $3 million+
- This rare version of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle features an ultra high relief design. Only a few were struck, making them highly collectible and valuable.
7. 2007 $1 Million Coin
- Estimated Value: $3 million+
- While not a vintage coin, the 2007 $1 Million Coin is one of the most valuable coins ever made. The coin is composed of 99.99% pure gold and weighs 100 kg (220 lbs), making it both a valuable collector’s item and a symbol of wealth.
8. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
- Estimated Value: $1.5 million+
- The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is a famous coin with a noticeable doubling of the date and motto. Due to the error, it’s one of the most valuable Lincoln pennies, especially in high-grade condition.
| Coin | Minted | Estimated Value | Key Identifying Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die) | 1976 | Up to $65 million | Doubled images 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 with high relief design, most melted down |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 | $1.8 million+ | Low mintage, highly sought after in excellent condition |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million+ | Copper instead of steel, very rare error coin |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | $3.8 million+ | Iconic design, only 15 known examples |
| 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1907 | $3 million+ | Ultra high relief design, rare and collectible |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | $1.5 million+ | Doubled design on “LIBERTY” and the date |
How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Look for a Doubled Die error on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If the design appears blurry or doubled, you may have a rare coin. Coins in good condition can fetch hundreds of thousands, or even millions, at auction.
Are there other Bicentennial Quarters worth money?
While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only face value, the Doubled Die variety is the most valuable. Other coins with significant minting errors or historical importance can also be worth more.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was never officially released, making it an extremely rare coin. Only five known examples exist, and each one is highly sought after by collectors.