You Might Be Carrying a Fortune: 3 Rare Quarters Worth Big Money
That jingling in your pocket might be worth more than spare change. Hidden among everyday coins are ultra-rare quarters that could be worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. In this guide, we’ll spotlight three standout pieces that have stunned collectors: the 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter, the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, and the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just curious about what’s in your change jar, these are coins you’ll want to keep an eye out for.
1. The 2021 Crossing the Delaware Quarter
A Classic Look with Rare Surprises
Following the conclusion of the America the Beautiful series, the U.S. Mint released a fresh yet traditional quarter in 2021. This coin features an iconic image of George Washington leading his troops across the Delaware River—a dramatic and historic scene from the Revolutionary War.
What Makes It Special?
While the design itself is meaningful, a few rare varieties and minting mistakes have pushed some of these coins into the spotlight:
- Doubled Die Errors: Certain coins from the Denver Mint show duplicated letters, particularly on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Depending on clarity and condition, these can bring in $500 to $5,000.
- Wrong Planchet Errors: Some were mistakenly struck on dime or foreign coin blanks, making them extremely rare. These errors can command $10,000 to $15,000 or more.
- Unusual Strikethroughs and Die Chips: Some errors create odd visuals—like Washington appearing to wear a helmet—valued between $200 and $3,000.
- High-Graded Specimens (MS68–MS70): Coins in nearly perfect mint state condition can reach $5,000+, with a theoretical MS70 potentially breaking the six-figure mark.
2. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Celebrating America’s 200th Anniversary
To mark 200 years of U.S. independence, the Mint issued a special quarter in 1976 featuring a colonial drummer and a torch encircled by 13 stars—representing the original colonies. The dual date “1776–1976” makes it instantly recognizable.
Why They’re Worth Collecting:
- Minting Errors: Errors like off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or doubled dies increase rarity and value—some selling for $500 to $5,000.
- Rare Silver Clad Editions: A few Denver-minted quarters were unintentionally made with 40% silver planchets, originally meant for special collector sets. These mistakes can be valued at $10,000 to $15,000 or more.
- Premium Condition Coins: A high-grade example (MS68) once sold for over $6,400. Coins with strong design elements, especially full drum details or deep cameo finishes, can fetch upwards of $20,000–$30,000.
- Untapped Error Potential: If an MS70 or undiscovered error is ever found, it could break past $100,000 at auction.
3. The 2022 Maya Angelou Quarter
Honoring a Literary and Civil Rights Icon
As the first release in the American Women Quarters program, the 2022 quarter commemorating Maya Angelou stands out for its cultural importance. The reverse design captures her spirit with an image of Angelou with uplifted arms, inspired by I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Valuable Variants to Look For:
- Doubled Dies: Even minor doubling on the text or design can make a coin worth hundreds to several thousand dollars.
- Struck-Through Errors: When material gets in the way during minting, it leaves behind unique marks. These one-of-a-kind flaws can be valued at up to $2,500.
- Die Cracks and Off-Center Strikes: These imperfections add character and scarcity, increasing value significantly.
- Top-Grade Examples (MS67+): Coins in exceptional condition, especially when graded by PCGS or NGC, have sold for close to $10,000.
Conclusion: That Quarter Could Be a Treasure
An ordinary-looking quarter might be hiding exceptional value. Whether it’s the 2021 Delaware crossing, the 1976 Bicentennial design, or the 2022 Maya Angelou tribute, these coins offer more than just face value—they offer a chance at finding a rare piece of history.
Key Points to Remember:
- Rare errors and near-perfect grades can turn a standard 25-cent coin into a four- or five-figure payday.
- Focus on coins with doubled dies, unusual strikes, wrong planchets, or MS68+ grading.
- Always inspect your change—you might just strike it rich.
What Should You Do Next?
Found a quarter that looks unusual? Get it evaluated by a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC. Authentication and proper grading can significantly raise a coin’s market value.
Have a Rare Find?
Tell us in the comments—we’d love to hear your story!
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FAQs
How can I tell if I have a valuable quarter?
Look for striking errors (doubled text, off-center images) or extremely high-grade finishes. Use a magnifier and reference trusted guides like those from PCGS or NGC.
What do MS68 and MS69 mean?
These refer to Mint State grading levels that denote exceptional coin quality. Coins in these conditions, especially when certified, can be worth thousands.
Are all Bicentennial or Maya Angelou quarters worth more?
Not necessarily. Only specific error versions or those in pristine condition tend to have significant value.
How do I spot a doubled die?
Look for repeated or shadowed letters, especially in areas like “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Having a coin expert confirm the error is best.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Try online platforms like eBay or auction sites like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections. Coin dealers and shows are also good options, especially with graded coins.
