The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most recognizable U.S. coins, celebrating America’s 200th birthday. While most of these quarters are only worth their face value, a select few are worth thousands—even up to $19,200 at auction! What makes some of these coins so valuable? It all comes down to mint errors, silver content, and condition.
In this article, we’ll explore the rarest and most valuable Bicentennial Quarters, how to identify them, and expert tips for selling these valuable coins. Plus, we’ll answer common FAQs about these collectible pieces.
7 Rare and Valuable Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $5,000
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Most valuable Bicentennial Quarter | 1976-S Silver Proof (sold for $19,200) |
| Common valuable errors | Doubled Die, Off-Center Strikes, and Wrong Planchet Errors |
| Silver Content | Some were made with 40% silver (San Francisco Mint) |
| Grading matters | Higher-graded coins (MS 65+) can be worth thousands |
| Auction houses to check | Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, eBay |
| Official Reference | U.S. Mint Website |
If you come across a silver, error, or high-grade Bicentennial Quarter, it’s worth getting it appraised. With growing collector demand, these coins continue to gain value.
What Makes Some Bicentennial Quarters So Valuable?
Most Bicentennial Quarters are only worth 25 cents, but these key factors can drive their value into the thousands:
- Mint Errors: Misprints, doubled dies, or off-center strikes make a coin unique and desirable.
- Silver Content: Some were minted in 40% silver, which adds to their intrinsic value.
- High Grades: Coins graded MS 65 or higher are rare and command high prices at auctions.
- Collector Demand: Coins with unique characteristics are highly sought after.
- Scarcity: Though millions were produced, well-preserved or error-containing pieces are relatively rare.
7 Rare and Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter – Worth up to $19,200
- Why It’s Valuable: Minted in 40% silver as part of a special proof set.
- Auction Example: Sold for $19,200 at Heritage Auctions.
- How to Identify: Look for the “S” mint mark and frosted designs with mirror-like fields.
2. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Bicentennial Quarter – Worth up to $8,400
- Why It’s Valuable: Features a doubled image on the inscriptions due to a minting error.
- Auction Example: An MS66-graded coin with this error sold for $8,400 in 2023.
- How to Identify: Check the letters on the obverse for doubled impressions.
3. 1976-S Clad Proof Deep Cameo Bicentennial Quarter – Worth up to $920
- Why It’s Valuable: Features a deep cameo effect, giving a striking contrast between the design and background.
- Auction Example: A PR70 DCAM version sold for $920.
- How to Identify: Look for the “S” mint mark and deep contrast between frosted details and a mirror-like background.
4. 1976 Off-Center Struck Bicentennial Quarter – Worth up to $6,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Some Bicentennial Quarters were struck off-center, creating a unique visual misalignment.
- Auction Example: Depending on the severity of the error and condition, values can reach up to $6,000.
- How to Identify: The image and lettering will appear misaligned, sometimes missing part of the design.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Nickel Planchet – Worth up to $5,400
- Why It’s Valuable: This error occurs when a quarter design is struck on a five-cent coin blank instead of a quarter blank.
- Auction Example: A well-preserved version of this error coin has sold for over $5,400.
- How to Identify: The coin may appear thinner, lighter, and have a different metallic composition.
6. 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter – Worth up to $6,000
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare, uncirculated version of the 40% silver quarter can be worth thousands.
- Auction Example: In MS69 condition, one sold for $6,000.
- How to Identify: Look for an “S” mint mark and 40% silver composition.
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Full Drum Lines – Worth up to $3,500
- Why It’s Valuable: Coins with a fully struck drum on the reverse (showing all lines clearly) are rare and valuable.
- Auction Example: High-grade versions have reached values of $3,500 at auctions.
- How to Identify: Ensure all drum lines are visible and well-defined.
Where to Sell Your Valuable Bicentennial Quarter
If you think you have a rare quarter, here’s where to sell it:
- Online Auctions: Heritage Auctions, eBay, Stack’s Bowers.
- Coin Shops: Local dealers may offer appraisals.
- Coin Shows: A great place to meet serious buyers.
- Grading Services: PCGS or NGC can certify your coin, increasing its value.
- Collector Forums: Online communities like CoinTalk and Reddit’s r/coins can provide insights and direct sales opportunities.
FAQs About Rare Bicentennial Quarters
1. Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
No, most are only worth face value, but rare ones with errors, silver content, or high grades can be worth thousands.
2. How can I tell if my quarter is silver?
Look for an “S” mint mark and weigh the coin. Silver quarters weigh 5.75 grams, while clad quarters weigh 5.67 grams.
3. Should I clean my Bicentennial Quarter?
No! Cleaning can decrease its value. Leave it in its natural state.
4. How can I get my coin graded?
Submit it to PCGS or NGC for professional grading and authentication.
5. What is the most a Bicentennial Quarter has sold for?
The highest recorded sale was $19,200 for a 1976-S Silver Proof graded PR70.
Final Thoughts
While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth just 25 cents, rare errors and silver versions can command high prices. Check your spare change—you might have a hidden treasure!