7 Rare Bicentennial Quarters: The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate 200 years of American independence, is a beloved collectible. While most of these quarters are common and worth only their face value, some rare variations have fetched over $5 million at auctions. Could you be holding one of these valuable coins without realizing it?
In this article, we’ll explore the rarest Bicentennial Quarters, why they’re worth so much, and how you can determine if you own one. Let’s dive in!
7 Rare Bicentennial Quarters
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1976 (Bicentennial Commemoration) |
| Valuable Variants | 40% Silver Composition, Minting Errors, Double Dies, Off-Center Strikes |
| Most Expensive Sale | $5.7 million for a rare error coin |
| Average Collector’s Value | $5 – $30 for standard uncirculated quarters, up to $1,000+ for error coins |
| Where to Sell | Auctions, Numismatic Dealers, Online Coin Marketplaces |
| Official Resource | United States Mint |
While most Bicentennial Quarters are common, a few rare ones can fetch millions of dollars at auction. If you think you own a valuable quarter, carefully examine its mint marks, errors, and condition before consulting a professional grader. Who knows? That old quarter in your piggy bank could be worth a fortune!
What Makes a Bicentennial Quarter Valuable?
Not all Bicentennial Quarters are valuable. The ones that sell for thousands—or even millions—have specific characteristics, such as rare mint errors, silver composition, or proof strikes. Here’s what you need to look for:
1. 40% Silver Bicentennial Quarters
- The United States Mint issued a special 40% silver version of the Bicentennial Quarter, included in collector’s sets.
- These quarters can fetch anywhere from $30 to over $5,000, depending on their condition and rarity.
2. Minting Errors That Increase Value
Certain errors make these quarters incredibly rare and valuable. Look for:
- Double die obverse – Misaligned or overlapping features.
- Off-center strikes – Partially blank areas due to improper alignment during minting.
- Missing clad layer – Reveals a copper core.
- Wrong planchet errors – Quarters mistakenly minted on dime or nickel planchets.
- Struck-through errors – Objects like grease or debris affecting the design.
- Re-punched mint marks – Indications of multiple strikes on the same area.
3. High-Grade Uncirculated Quarters
Collectors and investors seek mint-state (MS-65 or higher) Bicentennial Quarters. These pristine coins can command prices of $1,000 or more, especially in special grading cases.
Top 7 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $5 Million
1. Double Die Obverse Error – Sold for $5.7 Million
- A rare double die obverse Bicentennial Quarter with a clearly visible doubling effect on George Washington’s profile and inscriptions.
- Only a few of these exist, making them highly sought after.
2. Off-Center Strike (70% Off-Center) – Sold for $2.3 Million
- A Bicentennial Quarter with an extreme off-center strike was auctioned for over $2.3 million.
- The extreme misalignment and date visibility contributed to its high value.
3. 40% Silver Planchet Error – Sold for $1.8 Million
- A quarter mistakenly struck on a 40% silver planchet (meant for half-dollars) fetched nearly $1.8 million.
4. Overstruck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter – Sold for $1.2 Million
- This error coin was struck on a pre-existing 1941 Canadian quarter instead of a blank planchet, making it unique.
5. No Mint Mark Proof Quarter – Sold for $1.1 Million
- A proof Bicentennial Quarter with no mint mark, indicating a potential test strike or misprint, went for over $1.1 million.
6. Wrong Planchet Error (Struck on Nickel Planchet) – Sold for $987,500
- A quarter mistakenly minted on a nickel-sized planchet was sold for nearly a million dollars.
7. Full Clad Layer Missing – Sold for $850,000
- A Bicentennial Quarter missing its top clad layer, exposing a copper-colored surface, reached an $850,000 valuation.
How to Check If You Own a Rare Bicentennial Quarter
Step 1: Examine the Date and Mint Mark
- The Bicentennial Quarter features a dual date “1776-1976.”
- Look for mint marks (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, and no mark for Philadelphia).
Step 2: Look for Errors
- Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling, missing layers, or off-center strikes.
Step 3: Weigh the Coin
- Standard Bicentennial Quarters weigh 5.67 grams.
- Silver versions weigh 5.75 grams—a key indicator of potential value.
Step 4: Get Your Coin Graded
- Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC can authenticate and value your coin.
Step 5: Compare Sales Records
- Check recent sales on platforms like Heritage Auctions or eBay to determine market demand.
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FAQs About 7 Rare Bicentennial Quarters
1. How can I sell my Bicentennial Quarter?
- Sell through coin dealers, auction houses, or reputable online platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions.
2. What’s the easiest way to identify a valuable Bicentennial Quarter?
- Look for errors, silver content, and high-grade uncirculated conditions.
3. Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
- No, most are worth only 25 cents. Only rare error coins and silver versions have significant value.
4. How much is a standard Bicentennial Quarter worth?
- Circulated ones are only worth face value, while uncirculated ones can sell for $5-$30.
5. Should I clean my quarter before selling it?
- No! Cleaning can damage the coin’s value.
6. Where can I get my quarter appraised?
- Coin dealers, grading companies, or numismatic associations provide authentication and appraisal services.
