Quarters are some of the most popular coins in the United States, with a rich history and stunning designs. Many coin collectors treasure these small pieces of currency because they hold significant value. In this article, we’ll explore the 9 most valuable quarters in the US, showcasing coins that are not only rare but also tell fascinating stories about American history and coinage.
1. 1804 Bust Quarter
The 1804 Bust Quarter, also known as the Draped Bust Quarter, is one of the most valuable US quarters. Designed by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, this coin features Lady Liberty on the front and a heraldic eagle on the back. With only 6,738 coins minted, it’s incredibly rare. In circulated condition, it can be worth between $2,800 and $75,000, while uncirculated versions have sold for as much as $500,000.
2. 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter
This rare quarter shares a similar design with the 1804 Bust Quarter. What makes the 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter unique is the distinct “2” in the “25 C.” denomination on the back. Only a few of these coins exist in mint condition, which makes them highly valuable. An uncirculated version of this coin can fetch over $300,000, making it a prized addition for collectors.
3. 1849-O Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1849-O Liberty Seated Quarter was the first quarter minted in New Orleans. It features Lady Liberty seated on the front and an eagle with outstretched wings on the back. With only 16,000 coins minted, it’s a very rare piece. In uncirculated condition, this coin has sold for more than $24,000.
4. 1873-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is another valuable coin, minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada. Like the 1849-O, it features Lady Liberty seated and an eagle on the reverse. What makes this coin special is the “CC” mint mark, which stands for Carson City. Only 4,000 of these coins were made, and they can be worth as much as $525,000 in uncirculated condition.
5. 1896-S Barber Quarter
Named after its designer, Charles E. Barber, the 1896-S Barber Quarter is known for its low mintage of only 188,039 coins. The coin features Lady Liberty on the front and a heraldic eagle on the back. One of these coins sold for $89,000 in uncirculated condition in 2008, making it a highly sought-after piece for collectors.
6. 1913-S Barber Quarter
The 1913-S Barber Quarter is even rarer than the 1896 version. With only 40,000 coins minted at the San Francisco Mint, this coin is a treasure for any collector. In circulated condition, it’s worth thousands of dollars, and one uncirculated coin sold for $172,500.
7. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter marked a new design era for US coins. Sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil created a stunning image of Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch. Only 52,000 of these coins were minted, making them rare and valuable. One of these coins sold for $149,000 in 2010.
8. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
Like the 1916 version, the 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter features the same beautiful design. However, this coin’s rarity comes from its origin at the San Francisco Mint. Only 396,000 of these coins were minted, and prices for them range from $9 for a worn coin to $4,000 for an uncirculated one.
9. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter was created to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. It’s the first coin in the Washington Quarter series, featuring Washington’s profile on the front and an eagle on the back. With only 436,800 coins minted in Denver, this quarter has sold for up to $143,000, making it one of the most valuable quarters in the series.
Collecting rare US quarters is not just a hobby but a way to preserve a piece of American history. Each of these valuable quarters tells a story about the nation’s past and showcases the evolution of coin design. Whether you’re an experienced collector or a beginner, these coins represent a unique opportunity to own a small but important piece of history.
