Would you believe that a simple quarter could be worth more than a luxury car—or even a house? A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter recently sold for a whopping $201,000, proving that some rare coins hiding in your pocket change could be worth a fortune.
But this quarter isn’t the only valuable coin making headlines. Here are six other rare U.S. coins that have sold for thousands—or even millions—at auction.
1. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Worth $201,000
Issued to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter features a unique dual-date design (1776-1976) and a drummer boy on the reverse.
While millions were minted, a small number were struck in 90% silver for collectors. One of these proof quarters, in exceptional condition, recently sold for $201,000.
Collectors highly value these quarters, especially if they exhibit full strike details, deep cameo contrast, and flawless surfaces. If you own a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, check to see if it’s silver and in mint condition—it might be worth a lot!
2. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Worth $5 Million
One of the most mysterious and valuable coins, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, was never officially authorized for minting. Only five known examples exist, and they have sold for prices ranging from $3 million to over $5 million.
3. The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent – Worth $336,000
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper pennies to zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for wartime use. However, a small number of 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck in bronze, making them some of the rarest U.S. coins.
One of these pennies sold for $336,000, and other examples have fetched over $1 million.
4. The 1969-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse – Worth $126,500
A minting error known as a “doubled die” results in noticeable doubling of inscriptions and numbers on a coin. The 1969-S Lincoln Cent with a doubled die obverse is among the most valuable error coins, with one example selling for $126,500 at auction.
5. The 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $456,000
The 1975 Roosevelt Dime is supposed to have an “S” mintmark for proof coins struck in San Francisco. However, a few were mistakenly struck without the “S” mintmark, making them some of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
One of these “No S” dimes sold for an astounding $456,000.
6. The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – Worth Over $10 Million
Considered the first silver dollar ever issued by the United States, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is an important piece of history. In 2013, an example sold for over $10 million, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a coin.
7. The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar – Worth $4 Million
Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar was actually minted in the 1830s for diplomatic gifts. These coins are extremely rare, with auction prices reaching $4 million.
Final Thoughts: Could You Own a Fortune?
With these rare coins selling for jaw-dropping amounts, it’s worth checking your piggy bank, spare change, or inherited coin collections for hidden treasures. If you think you’ve found a valuable coin, consult an expert or a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Who knows? That quarter in your pocket might just be worth $201,000!
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
A senior at Yale-NUS College with interests in developmental and labour economics, as well as creative non-fiction and poetry. Currently, I’m studying as an Economics major and an Arts and Humanities minor (focusing on Creative Writing) with heavy involvement in the Singaporean journalism scene and involved in research on economic history and educational policy. I’m working as an author for The Octant, Yale-NUS’ student publication, as a writer for Wingspan, Yale-NUS’ alumni magazine, and as a tutor for the NUS Libraries Writer’s Centre. | Linkedin