Have you ever thought that spare change could be worth more than 25 cents? Maybe it’s time to go through those coins because one specific quarter of 2012 can be worth as much as $2,000. Yes, you heard it correctly, there are some modern quarters which are worth even more than the face value, and the 2012 Acadia National Park quarter is one of them. So, let’s get into the details of the coin which makes it so rare and valuable and how can you find out whether you have it or not.
What makes the 2012 Acadia quarter special?
- Part of the “America the Beautiful” series: The Acadia quarter is part of the United States Mint’s “America the Beautiful” series, which ran from 2010 to 2021. Each coin in this series features a unique national park or historic site from different U.S. states and territories.
- Low mintage numbers: While millions of these coins were minted, the real treasures are the limited high-grade versions of the Acadia quarter. Coins that are perfectly preserved and have high grading values can be worth thousands.
- Design appeal: The quarter showcases a beautiful design with a scene from Acadia National Park, located in Maine. The reverse side of the coin depicts the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse standing proudly on a rocky shoreline, adding to its appeal among collectors.
How can you identify a 2012 acadia quarter worth $2,000?
- Look for a “P” mintmark: First, check if your Acadia quarter has a “P” mintmark, meaning it was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. Coins from the Philadelphia Mint often hold more value than their Denver or San Francisco counterparts.
- Grading is key: The value of your quarter greatly depends on its physical condition and grading. A coin’s grade is determined by how well-preserved it is, with higher grades fetching more money. A 2012 Acadia quarter with a grade of MS-68 could bring in up to $2,000 at auction.
- Consult a professional: If you think your coin is in pristine condition, it is a good idea to have it evaluated by a professional coin grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). They can tell you exactly how much your coin is worth.
What is coin grading and why is it important?
- Grading explained: Coin grading is a process where a coin’s condition is evaluated based on factors like its luster, sharpness of the design, and whether there are any scratches or wear marks. The grading scale ranges from 1 to 70, with 70 being a perfect, untouched coin.
- High grades mean big money: For the 2012 Acadia quarter, most coins will only be worth their face value or a few dollars. However, if you have a high-grade quarter (MS-68 or higher), that is when you could see values up to $2,000 or more.
- Condition matters: Even slight wear or handling marks can reduce the value of your coin. If you have been keeping your coins in a drawer or change jar, be careful when handling them. Always use gloves or hold the coin by its edges to prevent smudging or scratches.
How to get your 2012 acadia quarter graded
- Consult a coin dealer: It may be wise to consult with a local dealer regarding your coin before spending money on professional grading. Based on their observation, they can tell you whether the coin is worth grading and probably assist you in selling it.
- Select a grading service wisely: If your quarter is looking good, it is time to pass it to services such as PCGS or NGC. These companies are a household name in the industry for their precise grading and having their seal on your coin will positively boost its worth.
- Put your coin for sale: After the grading process of your quarter is done, it is time to sell it at an auction where collectors have the habit of going for the highest grade coins. Some auctions are online allowing for many bidders to come in and buy the quarters at ease.
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