You Might Be Carrying a Fortune: 3 Rare Quarters Worth Big Money
The spare change you carry every day might be hiding incredible value. Among ordinary quarters, a few rare pieces have stunned the coin collecting world by selling for thousands or even more. This guide explores three extraordinary finds: the 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter, the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, and the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter. Whether you’re a passionate collector or just curious about pocket change, these quarters deserve a closer look for their historical significance and unexpected value.
1. The 2021 Crossing the Delaware Quarter
A Classic Look with Rare Surprises
After the end of the America the Beautiful series, the U.S. Mint introduced the 2021 quarter, returning to a classic design that features George Washington crossing the icy Delaware River. This image captures a powerful Revolutionary War moment and marked a return to tradition for the quarter’s look.
What Makes It Special?
Several error types and unique characteristics have made this coin a favorite among collectors:
Doubled Die Errors: Some Denver Mint coins display noticeable doubled lettering, especially on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” These can be worth $500 to $5,000 depending on clarity and preservation.
Wrong Planchet Errors: A few coins were mistakenly minted on blanks intended for other denominations or foreign coins, with these errors valued between $10,000 and $15,000.
Strikethroughs and Die Chips: These errors result in strange visuals—like an accidental helmet on Washington—and can fetch $200 to $3,000 depending on visibility and condition.
High-Graded Specimens (MS68–MS70): Top-condition examples may reach over $5,000, and a perfect MS70 specimen—if discovered—might even break the $100,000 mark.
2. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Celebrating America’s 200th Anniversary
To honor two centuries of American independence, the Mint produced a unique 1976 quarter with a colonial drummer and a torch surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original colonies. The dual date “1776–1976” ensures it stands out from regular coins in circulation.
Why They’re Worth Collecting:
This quarter has become valuable due to errors, composition surprises, and rare grading finds:
Minting Errors: Examples with double strikes, off-center impressions, or clipped planchets are considered rare and have sold between $500 and $5,000.
Silver Clad Mistakes: Some Denver-made coins were accidentally minted using 40% silver planchets intended for collector sets. These rare finds can sell for $10,000 to $15,000 or even more.
Premium Condition Coins: A Mint State 68 (MS68) coin once brought in $6,400, while coins with exceptional details or deep cameo finishes have exceeded $20,000 to $30,000.
Untapped Potential: A flawless MS70 or rare, yet undiscovered error could smash previous records with a price over $100,000.
3. The 2022 Maya Angelou Quarter
Honoring a Literary and Civil Rights Icon
As part of the American Women Quarters series, the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter pays tribute to the legendary poet and civil rights advocate. The reverse showcases her with raised arms, capturing the themes of hope and strength found in her famous work, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Valuable Variants to Look For:
Certain design errors and striking mistakes make this modern coin potentially very profitable:
Doubled Dies: Even subtle doubling on letters or imagery can add significant value, with some selling for several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Struck-Through Errors: When foreign materials interfere during minting, these unusual markings appear, sometimes raising value up to $2,500.
Die Cracks and Misaligned Strikes: These kinds of minting flaws enhance scarcity and desirability, leading to higher prices among collectors.
Top-Grade Examples (MS67+): Coins that earn high grades from services like PCGS or NGC have been sold for close to $10,000, showing the market’s strong interest.
Conclusion: That Quarter Could Be a Treasure
Everyday quarters may hide incredible worth. Whether it’s the historic 2021 Delaware design, the patriotic 1976 Bicentennial edition, or the inspiring 2022 Maya Angelou release, these coins could be much more than pocket change—they could be numismatic gems waiting to be uncovered.
Key Points to Remember:
Rare errors and near-perfect grades can push the value of a common-looking coin into the thousands.
Keep an eye out for things like doubled dies, odd striking marks, and coins in Mint State 68 or higher.
Don’t overlook your spare change—it could be your lucky day.
What Should You Do Next?
Think you’ve found something special? Send your coin to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. Expert authentication can greatly boost the value of your find.
Have a Rare Find?
Drop your story in the comments. We’d love to hear about your discovery!
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FAQs
How can I tell if I have a valuable quarter?
Check for striking errors like doubling or off-center images, and look for coins in exceptional condition. A magnifying glass and expert guides like those from PCGS or NGC can help.
What do MS68 and MS69 mean?
These refer to Mint State grades—ratings of coin condition. Coins rated this high are usually flawless and can fetch thousands when certified.
Are all Bicentennial or Maya Angelou quarters worth more?
Not all of them. Only specific errors or top-condition pieces carry high value. Regular circulated coins usually remain close to face value.
How do I spot a doubled die?
Look closely for repeated lettering or ghost-like shadows on words such as “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” For certainty, get the coin evaluated by a specialist.
Where can I sell a rare quarter?
Online marketplaces like eBay or auction sites such as Heritage Auctions and GreatCollections are great options. Certified dealers and local coin shows also provide selling opportunities.
Walter is a dedicated finance blog writer known for his insightful analysis and practical money advice. With a strong background in financial planning and market research, he simplifies topics like saving, investing, and retirement for readers of all levels. Walter’s goal is to help individuals take control of their finances and build a secure financial future through informed decisions.