9 Most Valuable Quarters in the US

For US coin collectors, quarters hold a special place in their hearts, as these iconic pieces of currency have a rich history and showcase some of the finest designs in numismatics.

In this blog, we'll delve into a topic that has captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike for decades: the 9 most valuable quarters in the United States. These rare, historic coins tell a remarkable story of the nation's past and showcase the evolution of American coinage. Let’s explore their history, design, and what makes them so sought after by collectors.

• 1804 Bust Quarter

First on our list is the 1804 Bust quarter, also known as the Draped Bust quarter. Designed by Robert Scot, the United States Mint's first Chief Engraver, this US quarter features Lady Liberty wearing a flowing dress and a draped bust. The reverse side depicts a heraldic eagle, a symbol of America's strength and unity. With a limited mintage of just 6,738, the 1804 Bust quarter is a numismatic rarity and one of the most valuable US quarters — a truly coveted treasure for collectors. In circulated conditions, this coin is worth between $2800 and $75000, while coins in uncirculated condition have sold for almost $500,000.

• 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter

The 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter is another standout among the most valuable US quarters. This coin shares a design similar to the 1804 Bust Quarter, but it's the variety in the denomination that sets it apart. The "Curl Base 2" refers to the unique style of the number "2" in the denomination "25 C." on the reverse of the coin. A limited number of these coins were struck, and only a handful are known to exist in mint condition. This scarcity makes the 1827 Curl Base 2 Bust Quarter a prized find for any numismatic enthusiast, with uncirculated coins commanding prices of over $300,000.

• 1849-O Liberty Seated Quarter

Moving forward in time, the 1849-O Liberty Seated quarter holds a special place in the annals of US coin history. It's the first quarter minted at the New Orleans Mint, which adds to its allure. The obverse of the coin features a seated Lady Liberty, while the reverse showcases an eagle with outstretched wings. With a low mintage of just 16,000 coins, the 1849-O Liberty Seated quarter is a very rare US quarter sought after by collectors. Uncirculated coins have sold for over $24,000.

• 1873-CC Liberty Seated Quarter

The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is another example of an extremely valuable US quarter. Minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada, this coin features the same design as the 1849-O Liberty Seated Quarter. However, the 1873-CC version bears the distinctive "CC" mintmark, denoting its origin. With only 4,000 coins struck and prices as high as $525,000 in Uncirculated condition, it's no wonder that this is considered one of the most valuable quarters in the US.

• 1896-S Barber Quarter

The 1896-S Barber Quarter is named after its designer, Charles E. Barber, the sixth Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. This elegant coin features Lady Liberty's head on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse. It’s renowned for its low mintage of just 188,039 coins, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after quarters for collectors. It’s considered so valuable that an Uncirculated condition coin sold for $89,000 in 2008!

• 1913-S Barber Quarter

Another remarkable Barber Quarter is the 1913-S version. Like its 1896 counterpart, this coin features the same design but was minted at the San Francisco Mint. With a mintage of only 40,000 coins, the 1913-S Barber Quarter is an even rarer US quarter than the 1896-S, making it one of the most valuable quarter additions to any coin collection. That is, if you’re willing to pay for it — coins in circulated condition are worth thousands, and an uncirculated quarter sold for $172,500.

• 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter marks a significant change in US coinage design. Created by sculptor Hermon A. MacNeil, this beautiful coin features a full-length image of Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch on the obverse. The reverse showcases a majestic eagle in flight. The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is highly prized by collectors for its rarity, as only 52,000 coins were minted. Furthermore, its unique design and historical significance make it a true numismatic treasure — and having sold for $149,000 in 2010, it’s priced as one too!

• 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter

Similar to the 1916 version, the 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter shares the same striking design. However, this coin's rarity stems from its origin at the San Francisco Mint, as indicated by the "S" mint mark. With a mintage of just 396,000 coins, the 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter is considered one of the rarest and most valuable US quarters in the series, appealing to collectors and investors alike. It also appears in auctions in a wide range of prices, from as low as $9 for a Very Good condition coin to as high as $4000 for an Uncirculated condition coin.

• 1932-D Washington Quarter

Last — but certainly not least — on our list is the 1932-D Washington quarter. This historic coin marked the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth and was the first of the Washington quarter series. Designed by John Flanagan, the obverse features a profile portrait of Washington, while the reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings. The 1932-D version, minted in Denver, boasts a mintage of only 436,800 coins and selling for as high as $143,000, making it one of the most sought-after and valuable quarters in the series. 

Explore the Treasure Trove of Valuable US Quarters With L&C Coins

The 9 rarest and most valuable US quarters represent not only the evolution of American coinage, but also the rich history of the nation. Each coin tells a unique story, making them truly compelling for collectors, investors, and history buffs alike.

At L&C Coins, we share your passion for numismatics and are always here to help you grow your collection. Explore our new arrivals and weekly specials today and enjoy free shipping on all standard orders and a 15-day return privilege. Stay tuned for more exciting insights into the world of coins, and happy collecting!