Top 3 Rare & Valuable U.S. Coins: 1976 Quarter, Maya Angelou & More

You Might Be Carrying a Fortune: 3 Rare Quarters Worth Big Money

The coins jingling in your pocket could be worth far more than just loose change. Among the everyday quarters, some rare versions are highly prized by collectors and might be worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

This guide highlights three exceptional quarters that have caught the attention of coin enthusiasts: the 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter, the 1976 Bicentennial quarter, and the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious about the coins you have, these are pieces worth watching for.

1. The 2021 Crossing the Delaware Quarter

A Timeless Design with Rare Variations

After the America the Beautiful series ended, the U.S. Mint introduced a new quarter design in 2021. This coin depicts George Washington leading his troops across the Delaware River, a pivotal moment in American Revolutionary history.

What Sets It Apart?
Several rare errors and varieties make some of these quarters particularly valuable:

• Doubled Die Errors: Some coins from the Denver Mint show doubled lettering, especially in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Depending on the clarity and condition, these can sell for anywhere between $500 and $5,000.
• Wrong Planchet Errors: A few coins were accidentally struck on the wrong metal blanks, such as dime planchets or foreign coins, making them extremely rare and worth $10,000 to $15,000 or more.
• Strikethroughs and Die Chips: Some quarters have unusual minting flaws—like Washington appearing to wear a helmet—that collectors value between $200 and $3,000.
• High-Grade Coins (MS68–MS70): Coins in almost flawless condition can fetch $5,000 or more, with a perfect MS70 potentially reaching six figures.

2. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter

A Tribute to 200 Years of Independence

To celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary, the Mint issued a special quarter in 1976 featuring a colonial drummer and a torch surrounded by 13 stars symbolizing the original states. The dual date “1776–1976” makes it instantly recognizable.

Why Collectors Value It:

• Minting Mistakes: Errors like off-center strikes, clipped edges, or doubled dies increase a coin’s rarity and worth, with prices ranging from $500 to $5,000.
• Rare Silver Clad Versions: A limited number of Denver quarters were mistakenly made with 40% silver planchets intended for special sets, making these coins worth $10,000 to $15,000 or more.
• Top Condition Coins: An MS68 coin once sold for more than $6,400. Coins with detailed design elements, such as a fully visible drum or deep cameo finishes, can reach $20,000 to $30,000.
• Potential Untapped Value: If a flawless MS70 or unknown error variant is discovered, it could surpass $100,000 at auction.

3. The 2022 Maya Angelou Quarter

Celebrating a Literary and Civil Rights Legend

The first release in the American Women Quarters program, the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter honors the famed poet and activist. The reverse design shows Angelou with raised arms, inspired by her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

Notable Valuable Variants:

• Doubled Dies: Even subtle doubling on text or design can boost a coin’s value to hundreds or thousands of dollars.
• Struck-Through Errors: These occur when debris interferes with the coin during minting, leaving unique marks that can be worth up to $2,500.
• Die Cracks and Off-Center Strikes: These flaws add rarity and character, significantly increasing a coin’s market value.
• High-Grade Examples (MS67+): Coins graded by PCGS or NGC in outstanding condition have sold for nearly $10,000.

Conclusion: That Quarter Could Be a Treasure

What looks like an ordinary quarter could actually be a hidden gem. Whether it’s the 2021 Delaware Crossing, the 1976 Bicentennial, or the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter, these coins carry more than just face value—they hold a piece of history and potential wealth.

Key Takeaways:

• Rare minting errors and near-perfect grades can turn a simple quarter into a valuable collectible worth thousands.
• Keep an eye out for doubled dies, unusual strikes, wrong planchets, or coins graded MS68 and above.
• Always examine your change carefully—you might discover a treasure.

Next Steps:
If you come across a quarter that seems unusual, have it professionally evaluated by a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC. Proper authentication and grading can significantly boost a coin’s value.

Found a Rare Coin?
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