Most Valuable US Quarters: Quarters have been a vital part of American currency for centuries, but some of these small coins hold enormous value. Beyond their monetary worth, rare U.S. quarters carry historical significance, intricate designs, and fascinating minting stories. For collectors, owning one of these valuable pieces is like holding a slice of history.
This article highlights the most valuable US quarters, showcasing coins that have sold for record-breaking amounts. From 18th-century Draped Bust quarters to unique Standing Liberty and Washington errors, these coins are prized for their rarity, errors, and craftsmanship. If you’re curious about valuable quarters or believe you may have one in your possession, this guide will help you understand their value and features.
Overview of the Most Valuable US Quarters
| Coin | Year | Mint | Estimated Value | Key Feature |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Quarter | 1873 | Carson City | $544,572 | Extremely rare, CC mintmark |
| 1823 Capped Bust Quarter: 3 Over 2 | 1823 | Philadelphia | $423,536 | Overdate error |
| 1871-CC Seated Liberty Quarter | 1871 | Carson City | $349,574 | Low mintage |
| 1827 Capped Bust Quarter: Original | 1827 | Philadelphia | $327,764 | Curl Base “2” in 25c |
| 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter | 1870 | Carson City | $214,625 | Early Carson City coin |
| 1804 Draped Bust Quarter | 1804 | Philadelphia | $214,550 | Historic early U.S. coinage |
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Philadelphia | $208,786 | First-year issue, very rare |
| 1828 Capped Bust Quarter: 25/50 | 1828 | Philadelphia | $116,149 | 25 cents struck over 50 cents error |
| 1901-S Barber Quarter | 1901 | San Francisco | $60,549 | Low mintage, highly sought after |
| 1918-S Standing Liberty Quarter | 1918 | San Francisco | $33,302 | “8 Over 7” error |
1. 1873-CC Seated Liberty Quarter
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Quarter is one of the rarest quarters ever produced, minted at the historic Carson City Mint.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin is notable for its limited production and scarcity, making it a significant prize for collectors. Carson City coins are generally highly sought after due to their historical association with the American West, and this quarter is no exception.
Key Features
- Mintmark: “CC” located beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Estimated Value: $544,572.
2. 1823 Capped Bust Quarter: 3 Over 2
The 1823 Capped Bust Quarter features an iconic minting error where the digit “3” in the year was struck over a “2.”
Why It’s Valuable
This overdate error makes the 1823 quarter a rare and fascinating piece of U.S. numismatic history. The error, combined with the coin’s age and low mintage, has elevated its value significantly.
Key Features
- Error: Overdate “3 Over 2.”
- Estimated Value: $423,536.
3. 1871-CC Seated Liberty Quarter
Another rarity from the Carson City Mint, the 1871-CC Seated Liberty Quarter, is revered for its scarcity and historical significance.
Why It’s Valuable
Only a small number of these quarters were minted, and even fewer remain in good condition today. Its connection to the Carson City Mint adds a layer of historical value.
Key Features
- Mintmark: “CC” below the eagle.
- Estimated Value: $349,574.
4. 1827 Capped Bust Quarter: Original
The 1827 Capped Bust Quarter is a rare and elegant coin that stands out for its unique design elements.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin is celebrated for its intricate design, featuring a curl base “2” in the denomination “25c.” Its rarity has made it a must-have for serious collectors.
Key Features
- Design: Curl Base “2” in “25c.”
- Estimated Value: $327,764.
5. 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter
The 1870-CC Seated Liberty Quarter is an early example of Carson City’s craftsmanship, produced during the mint’s formative years.
Why It’s Valuable
Its limited production and historic connection to the Old West make this quarter an exceptional collectible.
Key Features
- Mintmark: “CC” below the eagle.
- Estimated Value: $214,625.
6. 1804 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is one of the earliest U.S. quarters and a symbol of the nation’s developing minting process.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin is revered for its connection to the early days of the U.S. Mint, making it a valuable piece of history.
Key Features
- Design: Draped Bust of Liberty on the obverse.
- Estimated Value: $214,550.
7. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter holds the distinction of being the first quarter ever minted in the United States.
Why It’s Valuable
Its status as a first-year issue and its extreme rarity make it a cornerstone of any advanced collection.
Key Features
- Design: Draped Bust of Liberty on the obverse.
- Estimated Value: $208,786.
8. 1828 Capped Bust Quarter: 25/50
The 1828 Capped Bust Quarter is famous for its unique error, where “25 Cents” was struck over “50 Cents.”
Why It’s Valuable
This striking error highlights the challenges of early minting processes, making it a rare and fascinating collectible.
Key Features
- Error: “25 Cents” struck over “50 Cents.”
- Estimated Value: $116,149.
9. 1901-S Barber Quarter
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the scarcest coins in the Barber series, produced at the San Francisco Mint.
Why It’s Valuable
Its low mintage of just 72,664 coins makes it a prized piece for collectors, especially those in high-grade condition.
Key Features
- Mintmark: “S” beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Estimated Value: $60,549.
10. 1918-S Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1918-S Standing Liberty Quarter is notable for its striking “8 Over 7” error, a rare minting mistake.
Why It’s Valuable
This quarter’s combination of artistry and error makes it highly desirable among collectors.
Key Features
- Error: “8 Over 7” in the date.
- Estimated Value: $33,302.
FAQs About the Most Valuable US Quarters
What makes quarters valuable?
Factors like rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and condition contribute to their value.
Which quarter is the most valuable?
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Quarter holds the top spot with a value of $544,572.
How can I identify rare quarters?
Look for unique mintmarks, errors, or designs, and consult a professional appraiser for confirmation.
Are modern quarters valuable?
Yes, modern quarters with errors or unique features, such as those from the 50 States Quarters series, can hold value.
How can I verify a quarter’s authenticity?
Use a professional grading service to determine the coin’s condition and legitimacy.
Final Thoughts
The most valuable US quarters are not just coins; they are historical artifacts that reflect the artistry and history of the United States. From the first Draped Bust quarter to rare minting errors, these coins captivate collectors and command astonishing prices.
If you believe you own a rare quarter, have it appraised by a professional to uncover its true value. Who knows—you might be holding a piece of history worth a fortune. Share this article with fellow enthusiasts and dive deeper into the fascinating world of numismatics!
