A rare Bicentennial quarter has recently made waves in the numismatic world by selling for an astounding $45 million USD. This is a record-breaking price for a coin, highlighting the immense value of certain rare finds in the coin market.
Although the 1976 Bicentennial quarter is commonly circulated and worth just 25 cents, a unique error coin made this particular quarter one of the most valuable in history. Let’s dive into the details of this incredible find, along with four other coins that have also sold for over $1.5 million, showing just how lucrative the world of rare coin collecting can be.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $45 Million
The Bicentennial quarter that sold for nearly $45 million USD is an extraordinary example of a misstruck coin. It is a 1976 proof coin, but what makes it exceptionally valuable is the off-center minting error.
This type of error, where the coin is not properly aligned with the die during production, results in a visually striking misalignment of the design elements.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle – $22 Million
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The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle is one of the most famous coins in American history, largely due to its rarity and legal status. While 445,500 of these coins were initially struck, they were never officially released into circulation.
In 1937, the U.S. government ordered the coins to be melted down as part of the country’s transition from the gold standard. However, a few coins managed to escape the recall and have been sold at auction for millions.
In 2021, one of these rare coins sold for $22 million at a Sotheby’s auction, making it the most expensive coin ever sold at the time. The high price is attributed to the coin’s rarity (only a few survive) and its historical significance in the U.S. economy.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $4.56 Million
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is another rare coin that commands a hefty price. Unlike most coins, only five examples of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel were ever produced. The coins were struck illegally by an employee at the U.S. Mint, and they were never intended to circulate.
One of these nickels sold for $4.56 million at auction in 2018, cementing its place as one of the most expensive coins ever sold. With so few in existence, collectors are willing to pay a premium for the privilege of owning one.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar – $4.14 Million
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is another coin with a unique history. Although it’s dated 1804, these coins were actually minted in 1834 and were intended as presentation pieces for foreign dignitaries. Only 15 examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the world.
In 1999, one of these silver dollars sold for $4.14 million at auction. Its historical significance, coupled with its rarity, contributes to its high price in the numismatic market.
4. 1927-D Double Eagle Gold Coin – $1.5 Million
The 1927-D Double Eagle is another gold coin that has gained significant attention in recent years. Minted during the Great Depression, the 1927-D Double Eagle is extremely rare, with fewer than 100 examples believed to exist.
In 2021, one of these coins sold for $1.5 million at auction, further proving that gold coins, especially those with low mintages, can reach extraordinary prices in the market.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $6 Million USD: 3 More worth over $799,999 Gems
| Coin Name | Year | Auction Price (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $45 million | Off-center strike error, proof coin |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | $22 million | Never circulated, gold coin |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.56 million | Struck illegally, only five examples |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | 1804 (minted 1834) | $4.14 million | Rare presentation coin, only 15 specimens known |
| 1927-D Double Eagle Gold Coin | 1927 | $1.5 million | Rare, low mintage, gold coin |
What makes a coin worth millions?
Coins that are worth millions are typically extremely rare, in pristine condition, and carry historical significance. Coins with unique errors or special features, such as misstrikes, are particularly valuable.
How do I find rare coins?
Rare coins can sometimes be found through auctions, estate sales, or by purchasing from reputable dealers. However, discovering one in circulation is very unlikely, as most rare coins are sought after by collectors long before they reach the general public.
How can I determine the value of my coin?
The best way to determine the value of a coin is to have it professionally graded by an organization such as the PCGS or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These experts will assess its authenticity, condition, and market value.
Why are error coins so valuable?
Error coins are rare because mistakes are typically caught before coins are released into circulation. As a result, coins with minting errors—such as misstrikes or wrong designs—are much more valuable than standard coins.