Within the coin collection community, they often say the change can affect one’s life altogether. From changing moments to the way in which coins rattle against our pockets most of the time, there are the few coins whose value is simply mind-blowing- like this recently valued rare Bicentennial Quarter worth $388,888. Yes, you heard me right.
A quarter worth almost $400,000 takes even that definition to the next level. And the best part? This isn’t the only rare US coin valued at five or six figures.
In this article, we will explain the background to this Bicentennial Quarter that sets it apart from the ordinary, as well as provide a brief overview of six other coins whose prices exceed $88,888 and that could literally be lying in plain sight.
This is a must-read guide for coin collectors, hobby enthusiasts, or even just a person looking to check the change jar.
Bicentennial Quarter worth $388,888 USD Rare
This is, of course, true for many historical coins that owe their value to rarity, historic significance, or peculiarity; some are more or less worth money and sell.
Famous examples of rare coins are the 1933 gold double eagle, along with Civil War-era Confederate coinage, whose scarcity and high values run into the millions; those coins can definitely hold their own in a similar showcase, such as old coins having special serial numbers, printing errors, or limited numbers produced that can fetch very high values at auction.
The beauty and history of coinage create an enjoyment in their collecting pastime, whereas the excitement of stumbling upon a rare gem that could be worth a fortune adds to the mix. Among such treasures that attract collectors is the Bicentennial Quarter. An incredibly rare specimen would sell for an astonishing $808,888 USD. Here are six other coins that have gone for more than $88,888. This exemplifies the wealth and diversity of the coin collecting community.
Why the Bicentennial Quarter is so valuable?
The Bicentennial Quarter is the mint of 1975 and 1976. Actually, it is celebrating the 200th birthday of America. It has a reverse design unusual among other quarters-a colonial drummer with a dual date, 1776 and 1976. More than 1.6 billion Bicentennial Quarters were produced. So, why is one valued at almost $400,000?
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Here’s why:
- Striking Error or Unusual Composition: The quarter, estimated at $388,888, is considered a rare off-metal strike probably struck on a silver planchet by mistake.
- Mint Condition: To be graded MS-68 or better (Mint State), it would just have had to be obviously lustrous and have virtually no imperfections.
- Historical Significance: To historians and collectors, the bicentennial theme becomes relevant.
Pro Tip:
Check for coins that sound “different” when dropped (silver coins have a distinctive ring), or examine if the edges have no copper streak (indicating a silver planchet).
6 Other Rare Coins Worth Over $88,888
These six high-profile U.S. coins auctioned for some impressive amounts—and perhaps hidden away in society today is one or two in someone’s attic, jar, or collection.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel-Over $4 million
Although five are known to exist, one 1913 Liberty Head Nickel sold for $4.5 million in a private sale. Originally minted under mysterious circumstances, the coin’s saga includes a car crash, a heist, and a long-lost collector’s item reappearing.
Value Rationale: At the time of minting, unknown to the public, extremely limited, illustrious provenance.
Identification: Liberty head on the obverse; “cents” absent on the reverse.
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny-Coin Worth Approximately $1 Million
Most of the pennies made in 1943 were steel pennies due to the war effort metal restrictions. However, there were a few pennies accidentally minted on bronze planchets.
Current Market Value: More than $1 million at an auction.
What To Look For: If your 1943 penny sticks to a magnet, it is a steel coin. If it does not, test it for bronze; it could be one of those ultra-rare coins.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar-Worth $10 Million
Commonly believed to be the first silver dollar minted by the U.S. Mint, the 1794 Flowing Hair silver dollar is a case of a national treasure.
Auction Record: Achieved $10 million in auction in 2013.
Characteristics: Front-Liberty with flowing hair; reverse-eagle.
Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter, 2004 – Up to $6,000
This modern minting error showcases an extra leaf on the corn stalk, which is presumably caused by either accidental or intentional as tooling.
Value Range: About $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition.
What to Look For: An additional leaf on the left side of the corn, either pointing up or down.
1969-S Double Die Penny – Valued at Over $88,000
The double die error strongly, and visibly doubled the date and lettering.
Auction Price: One sold for $126,500.
Distinct Features: Clear doubling of “1969” and “LIBERTY.” Make sure the coin has an “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
2007 Presidential Dollar Missing Edge Lettering – Approximately $100,000
Dubbed the “Godless Dollar” unaided edge lettering, typically bearing the words “In God We Trust,” was omitted for this coin.
Minting Error: Several batches missed edge inscriptions entirely.
Market Value: One near-perfect specimen was sold at $100,000.
What reasons have made rare coins explode in value :
Much to the surprise of many, rare coins have experienced tremendous valuations for a myriad of reasons.
Natural Restriction of Volume: Many of such coins were produced with some faults or in absolutely small numbers.
Rating and Condition: Coins at higher grades (MS-65 and above) would be so much more valuable than one would imagine.
Demand of Collectors: The increased collector interest in numismatics has further increased competition for rare coins.
Value Due to Precious Metal Content: Certain antique coins may be valued independently of numismatic value, purely on melt value, as part of their construction includes either silver or gold.
How to Assess the Value of Your Circulating Coins
So you want to check your change for hidden treasure? Here’s how:
- Magnifying Glass: A coin microscope lets you see the tiniest details, such as mint marks or doubling.
- Weight: Another good way to check coins for being struck on wrong planchet is to weigh them with a digital scale.
- Check with a Professional Grader: Services such as PCGS and NGC can grade and certify your coin in the marketplace.
- Red Flags: Any coin with an off-center strike or missing components or strange colors is most probably an extremely rare error.
Conclusion:
How incredible to think a Bicentennial Quarter worth 25 cents might be worth $388,888 or that a penny could be worth millions. Now is the perfect time to check your change from childhood or newly acquired.
Start small-investigate your piggy bank, your drawers, or even your grandparents’ collections. Who knows? It might just be that you have a small fortune and don’t even realize it.
Have a coin you think might be valuable? Post a comment or consult with a coin expert. That next million-dollar find may be yours.
FAQS:
How Can I Tell if My Bicentennial Quarter Is Worth $388,888?
Look for coins with rare characteristics – struck on a silver planchet, possessing no copper edge, or almost complete uncirculated, that is, graded MS-68 and above. It depends on professional grading services like PCGS or NGC checking for authenticity and grade.
I Found a Possible Coin that Might be Valuable, What Should I Do?
Do not clean or alter the coin at all. Store it properly and seek advice from a certified coin dealer, or send it off to a grading service for appraisal.
Mint Marks: What Are They and Why Are They Important?
Mint marks are the letters that show which U.S. Mint facility that produced the coin (e.g., “S” for San Francisco, “D” for Denver). For some rare coins, the mint mark will sell much more than without it.