Think your spare change is worthless? Think again. A 2020 Bat Quarter, found still in circulation, recently sold for $1,600 — not because of age or scarcity, but due to a rare strike-through mint error. This surprise sale has stirred excitement among coin collectors and everyday Americans alike, proving once again that hidden treasures might be hiding in plain sight.
What Is the 2020 Bat Quarter?
Officially known as the 2020 National Park of American Samoa Quarter, this coin is part of the U.S. Mint’s America the Beautiful series. It features a touching design of a mother Samoan fruit bat hanging with her pup — a powerful symbol of wildlife conservation and an unforgettable coin released at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over 500 million of these quarters were minted, making them fairly common. But not all of them were flawless — and that’s where things get interesting.
Understanding the Strike-Through Error
A strike-through error occurs when something — like grease, cloth, or debris — gets between the coin die and the blank planchet during minting. The result? A portion of the design is missing, smudged, or distorted.
In this case, the error appeared on the obverse side of the coin — the side with George Washington’s portrait. The imperfection created a noticeable, uneven surface that instantly caught the attention of collectors.
Why Did This Coin Sell for $1,600?
What makes a 25-cent coin sell for over a thousand dollars? Several key factors played into the high price of this error coin:
- Rarity: Strike-through errors aren’t common — especially on newer quarters.
- Visibility: The error on this coin was large and easy to spot, increasing its appeal.
- Condition: The coin was in near-mint condition, which collectors love.
- Design Appeal: The bat design itself is already a collector favorite due to its uniqueness and release timing during a global pandemic.
Why Coin Collecting Is Booming Right Now
This sale highlights a growing trend — more Americans are discovering the thrill of error coin collecting. What was once a niche hobby has now gone mainstream, thanks to stories like this one and the potential to turn everyday pocket change into real money.
Even minor errors can bring in $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on visibility and condition. With rising interest in numismatics, it’s never been a better time to check your change.
Could You Have a Valuable Bat Quarter?
With hundreds of millions of Bat Quarters in circulation, it’s possible — though not guaranteed — that a few strike-through errors are still out there. Here’s how to boost your chances of spotting one:
1. Examine the Obverse Closely
Look at George Washington’s portrait under good lighting. Strike-through errors often appear as blurs, smudges, or missing details.
2. Check the Texture
Run your finger over the coin’s surface. Does anything feel rough or uneven? This might signal a minting issue.
3. Use a Magnifier
A simple jeweler’s loupe or your smartphone’s zoom can help identify tiny anomalies invisible to the naked eye.
4. Compare with a Standard Bat Quarter
Having a known good example makes it easier to spot unusual differences in your find.
5. Get It Authenticated
If you believe you’ve found a strike-through error, consider submitting it to a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC. A certified coin typically sells for much more.
Final Thoughts
The story of the $1,600 Bat Quarter is a powerful reminder that you don’t need to dig through ancient coin collections or attend high-end auctions to find treasure. Sometimes, the most valuable coins are the ones sitting quietly in your wallet or change jar.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, now is the time to pay close attention. That odd-looking quarter you nearly spent at a vending machine might just be worth a small fortune.