These 11 Canadian Quarters Are Extremely Hard to Find

Canadian Quarters Are Extremely Hard to Find – Canadian quarters have long been a staple of everyday transactions, but some issues stand out as elusive treasures coveted by collectors. From limited mintages to unique errors and commemorative designs, these coins are not only rare but also steeped in history and intrigue.

If you’ve ever wondered whether that old quarter in your pocket could be worth a fortune, read on to discover 11 Canadian quarters that are extremely hard to find—and why they’re so valuable.

The 11 Rarest Canadian Quarters

1. 1947 Maple Leaf Quarter

The 1947 Maple Leaf Quarter is a fascinating piece of Canadian numismatic history. To signify the transition from King George VI to Queen Elizabeth II, a small maple leaf was added next to the date on coins minted in 1948 but dated 1947.

With fewer than 10,000 quarters featuring this unique marker, it’s an incredibly scarce find. In recent years, examples have sold for between $500 (VF-30 grade) and $2,500+ (MS-65 grade in 2023).

The maple leaf not only makes this coin visually distinctive but also symbolizes Canada’s national identity, adding to its historical allure.

2. 1921: The “Prince of Canadian Coins”

The 1921 Canadian quarter, often referred to as the “Prince of Canadian Coins,” is one of the most coveted rarities in Canadian coinage. With a mintage of just 597,382, it marks the end of the Standing Liberty design before the introduction of the iconic Caribou motif.

Also Read: 13 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation

High-grade examples are exceedingly rare, with circulated specimens fetching around $1,000 and pristine MS-64 examples selling for $10,000+ in 2022. Its low production numbers and transitional significance make it a must-have for serious collectors.

3. 1936 Dot Quarter

The 1936 Dot Quarter is legendary among Canadian coin enthusiasts and is considered one of the rarest coins ever produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. Created during the abdication of King Edward VIII, the dot below the date indicates a transitional period.

Only three known examples exist, and when one comes to auction, it commands astronomical prices—such as the $100,000+ paid for an AU-55 grade specimen in 2021. This coin’s extreme rarity and historical context make it a crown jewel of Canadian numismatics.

4. 1951 Low Mintage Quarter

The 1951 Canadian quarter stands out due to its remarkably low mintage of just 187,844 coins, making it one of the scarcest issues in Canadian history. While it may fly under the radar for casual collectors,

high-grade examples can fetch significant sums, ranging from $150 in Good condition to $2,000 for an MS-63 grade in 2023. Its subtle rarity and affordability in lower grades make it an appealing challenge for collectors seeking hidden gems.

5. 1967 Caribou Centennial Quarter

The 1967 Caribou Centennial Quarter holds a special place in Canadian hearts as part of the nation’s centennial celebrations. Designed by Alex Colville, the Caribou motif remains one of the most iconic images in Canadian coinage.

While circulated versions are common, high-grade proof examples are highly prized, with values reaching up to $500 for PR-65 specimens in 2022. Its artistic beauty and patriotic theme ensure its enduring popularity among collectors.

6. 2006 Colored Poppy Quarter

The 2006 Colored Poppy Quarter made history as the world’s first colored circulation coin, issued by the Royal Canadian Mint to honor veterans and symbolize remembrance. While millions were produced, finding one in pristine condition can be challenging

with uncirculated examples valued at around $5 and MS-65 grades fetching up to $50 in 2023. Its innovative design and cultural significance continue to captivate collectors and non-collectors alike.

7. 1964 Small Bust Quarter

The 1964 Small Bust Quarter is a fascinating die variety that resulted in a smaller-than-normal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Believed to exist in quantities of fewer than 50, this error coin is a favorite among variety collectors.

Recent sales have seen prices exceed $5,000 for VF-30 grade specimens in 2022. Its unusual appearance and extreme scarcity make it a standout in any collection.

8. 1973 RCMP Centennial Quarter

The 1973 RCMP Centennial Quarter commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, featuring a mounted officer design. While widely available in circulated condition, high-grade examples are scarce,

Also Read: 15 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies

with values ranging from $10 for circulated coins to $150 for MS-65 specimens in 2023. Its celebration of one of Canada’s most iconic institutions adds sentimental value, making it a cherished piece for collectors.

9. 1992 Constitutional Anniversary Quarter

The 1992 Constitutional Anniversary Quarter marks the 125th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation and features a unique child-designed image selected through a national contest.

While circulated examples are relatively affordable, proof versions are more elusive, with prices reaching up to $200 for PR-65 grades in 2022. This coin’s connection to Canadian youth and its commemorative nature make it a meaningful addition to any collection.

10. 2000 Millennium Quarter

The 2000 Millennium Quarter featuring a hockey player design is part of Canada’s popular Millennium series. While the standard issue is fairly common, certain varieties, like those with a double-date error showing both “1999” and “2000,” are exceptionally rare.

Double-date errors have fetched upwards of $500 for MS-63 grades in 2023. Its celebration of Canada’s love for hockey and the intrigue of the error make it a standout piece.

11. 2010 Vancouver Olympics Quarter

The 2010 Vancouver Olympics Quarter, featuring a snowboarder design, was issued to celebrate Canada’s hosting of the Winter Games. While individual coins in circulation are worth face value, uncirculated sets containing this coin are highly collectible,

with prices reaching up to $100 in 2023. As a souvenir of a major international event, this quarter remains a popular choice for collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.

Could You Have a Hidden Treasure in Your Pocket?

You never know where a rare Canadian quarter might turn up. Perhaps you’ve inherited a jar of old coins, stumbled upon a curious piece at a flea market, or even found something intriguing in your pocket change. The world of Canadian coin collecting is full of surprises, and every coin has potential—if you know what to look for.