A quarter in your pocket that is worth a record-breaking $67 million! That’s the truth for the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, which has shocked collectors with its record-breaking value. Initially only worth 25 cents, the rare coin became valued through a minting error and perfect condition, making it one of the most sought-after items in numismatic history.
But this is not the only coin that has set an eye-watering figure at auctions. Let’s find out the history of this rare quarter and four other iconic coins which have sold for more than $600,000. If you’ve ever been curious about whether your loose change would make you wealthy, then this article is for you!
Record-Breaking Coins
Coin Name | Year | Auction Price (USD) | Unique Features |
---|---|---|---|
1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $67 million | Off-center strike, flawless proof condition |
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million | Among the first U.S. silver dollars |
1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle | 1933 | $22 million | Melted by the government, highly scarce |
1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.56 million | Struck unofficially, only five known examples |
1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million | Minted in copper instead of steel by mistake |
Bicentennial Quarter

So special about the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter? A unique off-center strike error provided it with a skewed design, a deviation from the rest of millions of quarters. Coupled with its immaculate proof quality, this unique minting error made a regular quarter a collector’s treasure.
Aside from its condition and error, this coin is significant in history. Struck to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, it instantly became a symbol of nationalism. With the few error coins available, collectors were ready to shell out millions for this one-of-a-kind discovery.
What Makes Coins Worth Millions?
All old coins are not valuable, but there are some things that can drive the price of a coin through the roof. Here’s what collectors seek:
- Rarity – Coins with low production or special mistakes are extremely valuable.
- Condition – Uncirculated or close to mint coins get the best price.
- Historical Significance – Coins associated with important events or eras receive additional attraction.
- Collector Demand – If a coin is in big demand, its price can climb at auctions.
- The Bicentennial Quarter meets all of these criteria and is a true gem in the world of collecting coins.
4 More Coins Worth Over $600,000
Let’s take a look at four other famous coins that have sold for record amounts.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The coin is thought to be one of the first silver dollars to be struck by the United States Mint. It symbolizes the dawn of America’s monetary system, so it is a priceless piece of history.
- Auction Price: $10 million
- Unique Feature: Very rare, with fewer than 150 examples known to exist
In 2013, one of these coins brought $10 million, and this shows collectors are willing to spend a pretty penny for early American money.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
This coin is shrouded in intrigue and controversy. The U.S. government directed the majority of these coins be melted down in the Great Depression, so any of the ones left behind are very rare indeed.
- Auction Price: $22 million
- Unique Feature: One of only a few from a batch of melted coins
In 2021, this coin broke an auction record, selling for $22 million—placing it among the most expensive coins ever sold.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most enigmatic coins in American history. It was produced without official sanction, and only five copies remain today.
- Auction Price: $4.56 million
- Unique Feature: An illegal minting makes it both scarce and contentious
Its relative obscurity and legendary history have given it holy grail status for collectors, fetching multimillion-dollar prices on auction blocks.
1943 Copper Penny
As the country went to war during World War II, the U.S. Mint changed production on pennies to copper-to-steel, saving metal for the war effort. But accidentally, a couple of copper pennies were stamped.
- Auction Price: $1.7 million
- Unique Feature: Accidently struck in copper instead of steel
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This unusual mistake has turned the 1943 Copper Penny into one of the most renowned and precious coins in American history.
Why the Bicentennial Quarter Stands Out
Although all of these coins are unusual, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter stands out because it has perfect condition, historical importance, and a unique minting mistake. Its record-breaking $67 million sale demonstrates that even the slightest error can make an ordinary coin worth a fortune.
This tale also teaches us that buried treasures may be hiding in our piggy banks. So the next time you find an antique coin, examine it closely—you may be in possession of a million-dollar painting!
FAQs:-
What are the other four coins worth over $600K?
These include rare editions of the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, and select error coins.
How can I identify a valuable Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for mint marks, rare errors, and unique characteristics like doubling or silver content to determine its worth.
Where can I sell a rare quarter for maximum value?
You can sell it at major auction houses, online numismatic marketplaces, or through certified coin dealers.