If you’ve ever slipped a quarter into a jar without thinking twice, you may want to take another look next time. Of the millions of mundane coins in circulation, there are some secret treasures that might turn your life around overnight. One such treasure is a rare Bicentennial Quarter—worth close to $3.5 million. More incredibly, there are six more coins, each worth over $1 million. Here is all you should know about these elusive discoveries and what to keep an eye out for in your own collection.
$3.5 Million Bicentennial Quarter
Most of the Bicentennial quarters are everyday coins, copper-nickel clad. Some were struck on 40% silver planchets, intended for collector sets. A few of these slipped into circulation and are now highly prized.
Why It’s Valuable
A near-perfect silver Bicentennial quarter recently sold for nearly $350,000. It is rare because of the silver content and error of being put into circulation rather than a collector’s set.
What to Look For
- Edge: A silver quarter has a solid silver edge, but common quarters have a copper stripe.
- Weight: Silver quarters are slightly heavier than normal ones.
- Condition: The higher the condition, the more valuable it is. Get it professionally graded if you believe you have one.
6 More Rare Coins Over $1 Million
1901-S Barber Quarter
Charles E. Barber designed the Barber quarter series from 1892 to 1916. The 1901-S (San Francisco) quarter is the rarest of the bunch.

Why It’s Valuable
They printed only 72,664, and not many have survived in decent condition. An intact one can sell for more than $100,000.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: Check for the “S” underneath the eagle on the back.
- Condition: Even worn-out coins are worth something, but mint-state specimens are very scarce.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The collection of Washington quarters began in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday. The 1932-D (Denver) sector is a few of the rarest of the series.
Why It’s Valuable
Minted in only 436,800, the 1932-D quarter is not readily available. In mint condition, it can be sold for more than $100,000 because of its historical and collectible value.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: Find the “D” mint mark on the back below the eagle.
- Condition: Even circulated coins are worth money, but uncirculated ones are most sought after.
1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter is a Carson City Mint rarity for low-mintage coins.

Why It’s Valuable
Only 8,340 were produced, so it is one of the rarest quarters. In high grades, it can easily reach $100,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: A “CC” on the back below the eagle.
- Authentication: Because it is so rare, authentication is important to make sure it’s real.
1823/2 Capped Bust Quarter
The 1823/2 Capped Bust quarter is renowned for its overdate variety—where the digit “3” was overstruck from a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable
Its uncommon minting error makes it a sought-after collector’s object. In near-mint situation, it may fetch extra than $100,000.
What to Look For
- Date: Examine the “3” in the date closely; remnants of the underlying “2” must be apparent.
- Professional Grading: Expert authentication or magnification can verify its authenticity.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter is the inaugural quarter of the U.S. and of vast historical importance.

Why It’s Valuable
With a mintage of only 6,146, this coin is incredibly rare. Well-preserved specimens in high grades can fetch over $100,000.
What to Look For
- Design: Bears Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
- Authenticity: Due to its value, professional authentication is a must.
1871-CC Liberty Seated Quarter
The Carson City Mint-rarity 1871-CC Liberty Seated quarter is popular among collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Just 10,890 were produced, and high-quality pieces have commanded more than $100,000 in auction rooms.
What to Look For
- Mint Mark: Check the “CC” beneath the eagle.
- Verification: Fakes have been made, so it has to be authenticated
If you believe you possess one of these scarce quarters, it’s worth examining its mint mark, weight, and condition. A plain 25-cent coin might be concealing a fortune!
Final Thought
From a $3.5 million Bicentennial Quarter to other legendary coins worth over $1 million, the potential hiding in your coin jar is real. These rare coins are more than just pieces of metal—they’re fragments of American history and stories of unbelievable luck. So next time you’re counting change, look carefully… one of these life-changing coins might just be in your hand.
FAQ’s
What is a 1796 Draped Bust quarter worth?
Based on condition, it can sell for more than $100,000 because of its scarcity.
What determines a Washington quarter to be worth money?
Low mintage, condition, and particular mint marks, such as the 1932-D, drive up the price.
How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Examine the edge of the coin. A silver quarter will have a solid silver edge, while the common ones have a copper stripe.