In the world of rare coins, some pieces are so valuable that they can fetch millions at auction, far beyond their original face value. A Bicentennial Quarter has recently been valued at an astonishing nearly $45 million, making it one of the most expensive modern coins in history.
Alongside this rare find, two other coins, including a 1901-S Barber Quarter and a 1916-D Mercury Dime, are each worth over $150,000. Let’s explore why these coins have become highly sought-after treasures and what makes them worth such eye-popping amounts.
The Nearly $45 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, originally minted to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States, is not typically worth more than its face value of 25 cents. However, a rare version of this coin has been recently appraised at an extraordinary near-$45 million. What makes this specific quarter so valuable?
This Bicentennial Quarter carries a significant minting error that makes it highly collectible. The coin was double-struck with a misaligned design, a rare mistake during the minting process that occurs when a coin is struck twice with the dies not properly aligned.
This error creates a coin with two overlapping impressions, giving it a distinct look that is highly prized by collectors. Because double-struck coins are incredibly rare, they can command astronomical prices, especially when the error is as noticeable as in this case.
1. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the most sought-after coins in the Barber series, designed by Charles E. Barber. The San Francisco mint produced only 72,664 of these quarters, and many were heavily circulated or destroyed. As a result, the surviving 1901-S Barber Quarters are highly coveted.
In well-preserved condition, the 1901-S Barber Quarter can be worth over $150,000, with those in near-mint or uncirculated condition fetching even more. The scarcity of this coin, combined with its historical significance and iconic design, makes it a top target for coin collectors and investors.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable dimes ever produced by the U.S. Mint. With only 264,000 of these coins minted, the 1916-D Mercury Dime is highly prized by collectors. Its scarcity, coupled with its beautiful and timeless design by Adolph A. Weinman, makes it a prized item.
While most 1916 Mercury Dimes are not worth more than a few dollars, the 1916-D version, especially in uncirculated condition, can be worth over $150,000. Coins in higher grades or those with unique characteristics can sell for even higher amounts at auction.
3. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Another coin worth mentioning is the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with the 3-Legged error. A well-known error in the coin’s design caused the buffalo to appear with one missing leg, creating a distinctive feature that makes it valuable to collectors.
Like other error coins, this one is worth far more than the typical Buffalo Nickel, sometimes reaching values well above $150,000 in good condition.
| Coin | Key Identifier | Estimated Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Double-struck error with misaligned design | Close to $45 million (in rare cases) |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | Low mintage, high demand in good condition | Over $150,000 |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Low mintage, highly sought-after design | Over $150,000 |
| 1937-D Buffalo Nickel (3-Legged) | Missing leg on buffalo (3-legged error) | Over $150,000 |
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter worth so much?
This particular Bicentennial Quarter is valued at nearly $45 million due to a rare double-struck minting error, creating a misaligned design that is highly sought after by collectors.
Are all 1901-S Barber Quarters worth a lot?
Not all 1901-S Barber Quarters are worth significant amounts. The value primarily depends on the coin’s condition, with those in excellent or uncirculated condition worth over $150,000.
How can I identify a 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
Look for the buffalo with one missing leg—this is the most famous error with this coin and significantly increases its value.
How can I tell if my Mercury Dime is worth over $150,000?
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is the rarest of the Mercury Dime series, and it is valuable only in excellent or uncirculated condition. Look for a small “D” mintmark under the date.
