Some coins hold incredible hidden value, and a rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarter recently valued at nearly $10 million is a prime example. While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only face value, a select few with unique minting errors or limited production have turned into multimillion-dollar treasures.
Alongside this coin, two other remarkable finds—the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel and the 1901-S Barber Quarter—are each worth over $350,000. Let’s explore these extraordinary coins, what makes them valuable, and how collectors can identify similar rare pieces.
The $10 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. Its unique reverse design featuring a Colonial drummer and 13 stars makes it a collector’s favorite.
However, the vast majority of these coins are worth only their face value of 25 cents. So, what makes one worth nearly $10 million?
The answer lies in a minting error. This particular Bicentennial Quarter was double-struck, and the second strike was misaligned, creating a ghostly, overlapping image on the coin. Minting errors like this are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors.
While finding a Bicentennial Quarter with such a significant error is extremely rare, it highlights the importance of closely examining coins for unusual characteristics.
1. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel is famous for its unusual “3-legged” error. During production at the Denver Mint, a polishing mistake removed one of the buffalo’s front legs, leaving only three visible legs. This distinct error made the coin one of the most sought-after in American numismatics.
In good condition, a 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel can fetch over $350,000, with higher-grade examples commanding even more. Its rarity and the intrigue of the error make it a standout in the world of coin collecting.
2. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the Barber series, which was minted from 1892 to 1916. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, only 72,664 of these coins were struck, making it one of the lowest-mintage quarters in U.S. history.
A well-preserved 1901-S Barber Quarter can be worth over $350,000, with near-mint or uncirculated examples commanding even higher prices. Its scarcity, coupled with its historical significance, ensures its enduring appeal among collectors.
| Coin | Key Identifier | Estimated Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Double-struck error, misaligned design | Nearly $10 million |
| 1937-D Buffalo Nickel (3-Legged) | Missing one of the buffalo’s front legs | Over $350,000 |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | Low mintage, well-preserved condition | Over $350,000 |
What makes the $10 million Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The nearly $10 million Bicentennial Quarter features a rare double-strike minting error with a misaligned design, making it a one-of-a-kind collector’s item.
Are all 1937-D Buffalo Nickels valuable?
Only the 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel, which features a missing leg on the buffalo, is worth over $350,000. Standard versions are far less valuable.
Why is the 1901-S Barber Quarter so rare?
The 1901-S Barber Quarter had a very low mintage of just 72,664 coins, and most were heavily circulated or lost, making surviving examples in good condition extremely rare.
