Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth About $36 million – 7 More Are Worth Over $50 million USD
Coin collecting is full of unexpected discoveries. Some coins, although small in size, carry values that are absolutely mind-blowing. One such coin, the Bicentennial Quarter, is reportedly valued at a jaw-dropping $36 million. That’s not a typing mistake — yes, it’s a quarter worth millions! But this isn’t where the excitement stops. There are several other coins around the world that have crossed the $50 million mark, either due to their rarity, age, or historical background.
Let’s take a closer look at these magnificent pieces of numismatic history — coins that have fascinated collectors and investors across generations.
Coin | Year | Estimated Value (USD) | Highlight |
---|---|---|---|
Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $36 million | Rare minting error |
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794 | $50+ million | First-ever U.S. dollar coin |
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $50+ million | Coin with a dramatic backstory |
1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $50+ million | Only five known examples |
1804 Silver Dollar | 1804 | $50+ million | Nicknamed “King of American Coins” |
1343 Edward III Florin | 1343 | $50+ million | Rare medieval British coin |
1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $50+ million | One of America’s first gold coins |
2007 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $50+ million | Modern coin made with 100kg pure gold |
1. Bicentennial Quarter (1976) – Valued at $36 Million
This coin was introduced to commemorate 200 years of American independence. While millions were circulated, one particular piece has made headlines. Due to a rare minting error, it became a unique collectible. While regular quarters are worth just 25 cents, this exceptional piece sold for $36 million, making it a national treasure among collectors.
2. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar – Worth Over $50 Million
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar holds a very special place in U.S. history. It was the first official dollar coin minted by the federal government. Only a handful are known to still exist, and their historical value is unmatched. One example was sold for $10 million in 2013, but experts now estimate its true worth to be well above $50 million, especially in perfect condition.
3. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – Over $50 Million
This gold coin has one of the most thrilling stories in coin collecting. Although 445,500 pieces were minted in 1933, most were melted down during the Great Depression. A few coins escaped destruction, and their mystery has fascinated collectors ever since. One such coin was sold for $7.5 million in 2002, but its current value has easily surpassed $50 million, given its controversy and limited availability.
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Over $50 Million
Only five Liberty Head Nickels from 1913 are known to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins ever produced. Interestingly, the design had already changed that year, which adds to the mystery of how these few coins were even minted. One of these sold for $3.7 million back in 2010, and today, experts believe each specimen could command a price of $50 million or more in a high-stakes auction.
5. 1804 Silver Dollar – Over $50 Million
Often referred to as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Silver Dollar has an intriguing background. Although it bears the 1804 date, it was actually struck in the 1830s as a diplomatic gift. Only 15 examples are known today. One sold for $4 million in 1999, and the price tag has only grown since. Now, these coins are estimated to be worth over $50 million due to their rarity and historical significance.
6. 1343 Edward III Florin – Over $50 Million
This ancient coin dates back to medieval England and is one of the oldest on this list. Known as the Edward III Florin, it was issued in 1343 and only three copies are known to exist today. While it hasn’t been auctioned recently, numismatists agree that its unique status and age could place its market value at well over $50 million, should it ever be offered for sale.
7. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – Over $50 Million
The Brasher Doubloon is one of the earliest gold coins made in America. Created by New York silversmith Ephraim Brasher, this coin represents a key piece of pre-U.S. Mint history. A version of this coin sold for $7.4 million in 2011, and its value has only increased over time. Collectors now consider this a $50+ million treasure, especially for its role in American coinage history.
8. 2007 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf – Over $50 Million
This modern marvel is a true giant among coins, made of 100 kilograms of pure gold. Its face value is a massive $1 million Canadian dollars, but its material and rarity push the actual worth way beyond that. Only a few pieces were minted, and today it’s valued at more than $50 million, making it one of the most valuable modern coins ever produced.
Why Are These Coins So Incredibly Valuable?
The staggering values of these coins can be attributed to several unique factors:
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Unbelievable rarity – In some cases, only 3 to 5 specimens exist globally.
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Historical value – Coins like the Flowing Hair Dollar and Brasher Doubloon tell stories of America’s origins.
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Scandal and mystery – Some coins were never supposed to exist or were secretly sold or stolen, adding intrigue.
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Precious metals – Gold and silver content increases intrinsic value.
These are not just coins — they are pieces of history, preserved through time.
Could You Be Holding a Treasure?
While the odds are slim, it’s not impossible. People have found valuable coins in pocket change, inherited collections, or flea markets. The next time you come across an old coin, it might be worth a second look. Who knows? Maybe your loose change hides a small fortune.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
It’s valued so highly due to a rare minting error, making it a one-of-a-kind coin in a sea of ordinary quarters.
Q2. What makes the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar special?
It was the first dollar coin issued by the U.S. federal government, making it an iconic piece of American history.
Q3. Are all Bicentennial Quarters worth millions?
No, only one known version with a minting error has reached such high value. Most are still worth just 25 cents.
Q4. What is the most expensive coin ever sold?
While many have sold for over $10 million, the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar and 1933 Double Eagle are strong contenders for the top spot.
Q5. Can I find any of these coins in circulation today?
It’s very unlikely, as most of them are in museums or private collections, but there’s always a slim chance in rare coin shops or estates.