The Bicentennial quarter is a cherished piece of American history and numismatics, minted in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary. These quarters are iconic for their dual dates (1776–1976) and the Colonial drummer depicted on the reverse. While most Bicentennial quarters hold a face value of 25 cents, a few rare varieties have soared in value, with some fetching prices in the thousands—outpacing even the value of gold in certain cases.
In this guide, we’ll explore five standout Bicentennial quarters that have captivated collectors due to their rarity, condition, or unique features. By the end, you may feel inspired to dig through your old coin jar or revisit your collection to see if you’ve been sitting on a hidden treasure.
Key Features That Drive Bicentennial Quarter Value
Several factors determine whether a Bicentennial quarter is a valuable collector’s item:
- Composition: Coins containing silver are more sought after than those made from standard copper-nickel alloy.
- Condition: Coins in pristine, uncirculated states, such as Mint State or Proof grades, command higher prices.
- Errors: Minting errors like off-center strikes or doubled inscriptions are highly desirable.
- Rarity: Low-mintage coins or those in exceptionally preserved condition are especially prized.
While most Bicentennial quarters won’t make you rich, those with the right combination of rarity, material, and condition can be worth a fortune.
The Five Most Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
Minted for collectors, the 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter is a standout thanks to its 40% silver composition and mirror-like finish. These coins were never meant for circulation, making them a prized addition to any collection.
- Why It’s Special: Its flawless Proof 70 (PR-70) grade makes it a perfect specimen, increasing its value significantly.
- Value: A PR-70 Silver Proof recently sold for $19,975, making it the most valuable Bicentennial quarter known.
If you own a 1976 proof set, check the condition of your silver quarter—it could be worth a small fortune.
2. 1976-D Mint State 68 Bicentennial Quarter
Although the 1976-D quarter was produced in vast quantities, finding one in a Mint State 68 (MS-68) condition is exceptionally rare.
- Why It’s Special: Coins with such an impeccable grade show no visible flaws, making them a collector’s dream.
- Value: An MS-68 example sold for $6,462 at auction.
These high-grade coins are nearly impossible to find in circulation, as they represent the peak of preservation.
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3. 1976-P Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter
Error coins hold a unique allure for collectors, and the 1976-P Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter is no exception. It features noticeable doubling on its inscriptions, which occurred during the minting process.
- Why It’s Special: Doubling errors are rare, and each one is distinct, making these coins highly sought after.
- Value: A well-preserved example fetched $5,875 at auction.
Inspect your quarters closely—if you spot doubled letters or numbers, you may have stumbled upon a numismatic treasure.
4. 1976-S Silver Business Strike Bicentennial Quarter
Unlike the Silver Proof version, the 1976-S Silver Business Strike Quarter was produced with a matte finish for collectors. These coins share the same 40% silver composition but were minted in much smaller quantities.
- Why It’s Special: Its rarity and silver content make it a desirable piece for any serious collection.
- Value: In top condition, these coins have sold for $4,465.
If you own a collector’s set from 1976, this coin could be a valuable addition to your portfolio.
5. 1976-P Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter
Error coins like the 1976-P Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter are visually striking and unique, as no two coins with this error look exactly alike.
- Why It’s Special: The misaligned design adds individuality and artistic appeal to each coin.
- Value: A recent auction saw one of these coins sell for $3,000, with higher premiums for more dramatic errors.
If you find a Bicentennial quarter with a shifted or incomplete design, it could be one of these valuable error coins.
How to Identify Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
- Check the Mint Mark: Look for an “S” mint mark near Washington’s portrait for silver quarters.
- Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to detect doubling, misalignments, or other anomalies.
- Weigh Your Coin: Silver quarters weigh about 6.25 grams compared to 5.67 grams for clad coins.
- Consider Grading: Submitting your coin to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can confirm its condition and value.
FAQs About Bicentennial Quarters
- Why are some Bicentennial quarters so valuable?
Their value is driven by rarity, silver content, minting errors, and pristine condition. - How do I know if my quarter is made of silver?
Look for the “S” mint mark and check the weight—silver quarters are slightly heavier. - What’s the highest price ever paid for a Bicentennial quarter?
A 1976-S Silver Proof in PR-70 condition sold for nearly $20,000. - Can I still find valuable Bicentennial quarters in circulation?
Yes, though rare silver or error coins are unlikely to be found in everyday transactions. - Where can I sell my rare Bicentennial quarter?
You can sell them through certified dealers, auction platforms, or grading services for the best price.