This is one fascinating piece of U.S. coinage as the Bicentennial Quarter was minted with the making of the 200th anniversary of America’s independence in 1976. The majority of these quarters are only worth their face value, but some rare examples have been quite appealing to collectors and were sold at pretty high prices. So, now let’s look at some facts about these coins and learn how to identify some valuable ones.
Unique Bicentennial Quarter
These are quarters, 1975 and 1976, these have a unique design commemorating the bicentennial of America.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reverse Design | Colonial drummer boy with a torch and 13 stars |
| Obverse Design | Standard George Washington portrait |
| Dual Date | “1776–1976” instead of a single year |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”) |
The San Francisco Mint produced the versions of silver content which had 40% silver, which is more valuable than the regular copper-nickel alloy.
$75 Million Quarter
Although stories of a $75 million sale of a Bicentennial Quarter abound, it’s nothing more than rumor. Still, no concrete sale exists, which has merely furthered interest for these coins from the public-at-large.
If a quarter fetches a sales price anywhere this high, this is far down the road for any sale like this one.
Actual Sales Of Bicentennial Quarters
- Sold At: $19,200 – 2019
- This One:
- Minted At The San Francisco
- 40% silver content
- Assigned a MS-69 grade-one of the absolute highest grades, and possibly graded by NGC/PCGS
Double Die Error Quarter
- Sold For: $8,400
- Description
- Denver Minted
- Has noticeable doubling in the design
- Graded MS65
Perfect Proof Quarter
- Sold For: $7,200
- Description
- Silver proof version from San Francisco
- Graded PR70 Deep Cameo, which means it is in perfect condition
Die Clash Error Quarter
- Sold For: $5,500
- Description
- Philadelphia Minted
- Unique die clash error
- Graded MS63
Factors
- Double Dies: Doubling of design elements.
- Off-Center Strikes: Partial design due to misalignment.
- Die Clashes: Impressions of unintended design elements.
2. Condition
- Coins in Mint State (MS) or Proof (PR) grades have higher values.
- Grading scale from 1 (poor) to 70 (perfect).
3. Composition
- The 40% silver quarters have more value.
- Check for a solid silver edge or the “S” mint mark.
4. Historical Significance
If connected to America’s bicentennial, collector interest increases.
How to Identify
| Step | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Check the Edge | Solid silver edge indicates silver content. |
| Look for Errors | Doubling, die clashes, or off-center strikes. |
| Check the Mint Mark | “S” indicates a silver or proof version. |
| Inspect Condition | Coins with no scratches or wear are more valuable. |
Tips for Collectors
Get coins authenticated and graded with reliable services like PCGS or NGC.
2. Storage
Keep coins in protective holders for safekeeping of their condition.
3. Where to Sell
- Heritage Auctions and other reputable auction houses.
- Professional coin dealers.
- eBay, but be careful.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is more than a salute to America’s independence; it is a collector’s dream and a history buff’s treasure. Most are only worth 25 cents, but some rare specimens can be worth thousands of dollars because of minting errors, silver content, or high grades.
If you suspect you have discovered a rare Bicentennial Quarter, it is worth submitting it to professional grading to ensure its authenticity and grade. While you may not know a $75 million quarter, even more modestly valuable examples can make pocket change into a rewarding find.
FAQs:
What makes Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
Errors, high grades, and silver composition increase value.
How can I identify a silver Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for the ‘S’ mint mark and a solid silver edge.
What is the most expensive Bicentennial Quarter?
A silver MS69 quarter sold for $19,200 in 2019.
Are Bicentennial Quarters still in circulation?
Yes, but most are worth face value unless rare.
How can I sell a valuable Bicentennial Quarter?
Use auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms.