Coin collecting is a captivating world filled with hidden treasures, some valued at more than a small fortune. Among these, the Bicentennial Quarter stands out, not just for its historical importance but also for its substantial value.
In this article, we explore the Bicentennial Quarter and seven other rare coins, each worth over $10 million USD. We’ll dive into their history, rarity, and what makes them so extraordinarily valuable.
Bicentennial Quarter and Other Million-Dollar Coins
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was released to celebrate 200 years of American independence. While most of these quarters are worth no more than their face value, a rare variant struck in 40% silver and featuring a unique drummer boy design on the reverse can be worth nearly $1 million.
This high valuation is due to its limited mintage, historical significance, and the pristine condition required for such a valuation.
Other Rare Coins Worth Over $10 Million
1. Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar (1794/5)
Valued at over $10 million, the Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar from 1794/5 is a piece of American history. As the first dollar coin issued by the U.S. federal government, its value comes from its historical importance and extreme rarity.
Only a few of these coins exist in good condition, making it a highly sought-after item among collectors.
2. Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (1933)
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a $20 gold coin from 1933, valued at over $10 million. Its rarity stems from the fact that nearly all of the 1933 series were melted down and never officially circulated, making the few surviving examples incredibly rare and valuable.
3. Brasher Doubloon (1787)
Minted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher in 1787, the Brasher Doubloon is a gold coin that can fetch over $10 million at auction.
This coin is valued for its historical significance as one of the earliest gold coins minted in the United States, coupled with its unique design and craftsmanship.
4. Edward III Florin (1343)
The Edward III Florin, a medieval coin worth over $10 million, is one of the rarest examples of English coinage. Known as a “double leopard,” only three examples are known to exist, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
5. Liberty Head Nickel (1913)
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is among the rarest and most valuable coins globally, with only five known examples. Its value exceeds $10 million, driven by its mysterious origins, as these nickels were never officially released for circulation.
6. Barber Dime (1894-S)
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most famous rarities in American coinage, often commanding a price of over $10 million. Only nine of these dimes are known to exist, adding to their allure and value.
7. 1804 Silver Dollar
Often referred to as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Silver Dollar is valued at over $10 million. Its rarity is attributed to its limited mintage—only 15 are known to exist—and its fascinating history as a diplomatic gift.
| Coin | Year | Valuation | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Nearly $1 million | 40% silver, drummer boy design, rare variant |
| Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar | 1794/5 | Over $10 million | First U.S. dollar coin, extreme rarity |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | Over $10 million | Rare surviving examples, $20 gold coin |
| Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | Over $10 million | Early American gold coin, unique craftsmanship |
| Edward III Florin | 1343 | Over $10 million | Medieval English coin, only three known |
| Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Over $10 million | Only five known, mysterious origins |
| Barber Dime | 1894-S | Over $10 million | Only nine known, very limited mintage |
| Silver Dollar | 1804 | Over $10 million | Known as the “King of American Coins,” historical significance |
Conclusion
The rare Bicentennial Quarter, valued at nearly $1 million, and the seven other coins worth over $10 million each, are not merely pieces of currency.
They are historical artifacts that tell the story of different eras through their craftsmanship, rarity, and the legends that surround them. For collectors and enthusiasts, these coins represent far more than their material worth—they are invaluable treasures that preserve the rich tapestry of our shared history.
Q1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth nearly $1 million?
A. This rare variant of the Bicentennial Quarter is valued so highly due to its limited mintage, historical significance, and the use of 40% silver.
Q2. What makes the Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar so valuable?
A. The Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar is the first dollar coin issued by the U.S. Federal Government, making it a highly coveted piece for its historical importance and rarity.
Q3. How did the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle achieve its value?
A. The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle’s value exceeds $10 million due to its rarity; nearly all of the 1933 series were melted down, leaving only a few surviving examples.
Q4. What is the significance of the Brasher Doubloon?
A. The Brasher Doubloon is one of the earliest gold coins minted in the United States, valued for its unique craftsmanship and historical significance.
Q5. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare?
A. The Liberty Head Nickel is extremely rare, with only five known examples, and was never officially released for circulation, adding to its mystique and value.
