In 1976, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, the U.S. Mint released a special edition of the Washington quarter, commonly known as the Bicentennial Quarter. These coins are instantly recognizable thanks to their distinctive reverse design featuring a Revolutionary War drummer boy, a torch, and 13 stars representing the original colonies.
While most of these quarters are only worth their face value of 25 cents, some rare varieties and mint errors have turned into numismatic treasures. Believe it or not, certain Bicentennial quarters have sold for tens of thousands and in some extreme cases, hundreds of thousands or even millions at auctions.
Could one of these coins be sitting in your coin jar or wallet? Let’s explore 10 such Bicentennial quarters that could turn spare change into a serious fortune.
1. Double Die Obverse (DDO-001) – Value: Up to $48,500
One of the most coveted Bicentennial quarter errors is the Double Die Obverse, caused by a misalignment during the coin-striking process. This results in duplicated images, most noticeable on the word LIBERTY, the date, and George Washington’s profile.
- Even circulated examples in decent condition can fetch $100 or more
- A certified MS-67+ graded coin has reached prices up to $48,500
Careful inspection under magnification is key to spotting this rare error.
2. Double Die Reverse (DDR-001) – Value: Up to $6,000
Unlike the DDO, this error affects the reverse side of the coin. Look for doubling on inscriptions like UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, or elements of the drummer boy’s image.
- These coins are rarer and often misidentified
- MS-66 specimens have sold for as much as $6,000
If you’re lucky enough to spot one, it’s definitely a keeper.
3. Silver “No S” Proof Quarter – Value: $32,500+
Proof quarters were specially struck for collectors at the San Francisco Mint, and most carry an “S” mint mark. However, due to a rare minting error, some silver proof Bicentennial quarters were produced without the “S” mark.
- Only around 20 examples are known to exist
- These coins have sold for more than $32,500
This is one of the most elusive and valuable Bicentennial errors.
4. Copper-Nickel “No S” Proof Quarter – Value: $55,000+
Even more exceptional than the silver variant is the copper-nickel proof without the “S” mint mark. These errors are incredibly rare.
- Fewer than 7 verified examples
- These coins have sold at auctions for $55,000 and up
Both “No S” proof varieties are highly prized among serious collectors.
5. Off-Center Strike – Value: Over $200,000
Off-center strikes occur when the coin blank isn’t properly aligned in the press. The result is a quarter with part of its design missing.
- Depending on the percentage of misalignment, values range from a few hundred to over $200,000
- The most valuable pieces are those with extreme off-center strikes and full visible dates
These types of errors are easy to spot and extremely rare in the Bicentennial series.
6. Overstruck Bicentennial Quarter – Value: $250,000+
An overstrike error occurs when a coin is struck on top of another coin, often from a different denomination. Imagine a Bicentennial quarter with elements of a dime or another quarter it’s a true minting anomaly.
- These “hybrid” coins are bizarre and one-of-a-kind
- Known to fetch $250,000 or more due to their extreme rarity
Collectors and museums alike prize such numismatic oddities.
7. 1976-S Silver MS69 Bicentennial Quarter – Value: $19,200
This quarter isn’t an error but a pristine example of a 1976-S silver Bicentennial quarter graded MS69 just one step below a perfect coin.
- Only a few coins are known at this level of preservation
- One sold at auction for $19,200
Perfect or near-perfect grades significantly increase coin value.
8. 1976-D Clad MS68 Bicentennial Quarter – Value: $6,462.50
Regular Denver Mint (D) clad quarters don’t usually command high prices unless they’re in exceptional condition. An MS68 specimen recently sold for $6,462.50.
- These coins show no wear, sharp details, and strong luster
- Considered rare in such high grades
Not all valuable quarters are errors some are simply in mint condition.
9. 1976 Clad MS67+ Regular Strike Quarter – Value: $1,821
Even the Philadelphia-minted standard strike clad quarters can bring in money if they’re graded MS67+ or higher.
- One such quarter fetched $1,821 at auction
- As with all coins, grade is crucial
Store your coins in a safe, dry environment to preserve their value.
10. 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter (Deep Cameo) – Value: $13,500
Proof coins with a Deep Cameo (DCAM) finish featuring frosted designs and reflective fields are especially attractive to collectors.
- A perfect PR70 DCAM silver Bicentennial quarter sold for $13,500
- Only a few hundred may exist at this quality
These coins were struck with extra care and multiple strikes, giving them their signature sharp detail.
What Makes These Quarters So Valuable?
A few key factors drive the sky-high prices of these quarters:
- Mint Errors: Double dies, overstrikes, and off-center strikes are unique anomalies
- Missing Mint Marks: Coins without expected mint marks are extremely rare
- Silver Content: 40% silver variants are naturally more valuable than clad ones
- Condition: Coins graded MS67 or higher command top dollar
- Low Population: Rarity and limited availability increase desirability
Tips for Collectors – How to Check Your Quarters
If you’re now itching to dig through your change jar or old coin collection, here are a few tips:
- Use a 10x magnifying glass to check for doubling or mint mark errors
- Look for odd shapes or missing details signs of off-center strikes or overstrikes
- Weigh the coin silver quarters will weigh slightly more than clad ones
- Consider getting suspicious coins professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC
Final Thoughts – Don’t Dismiss Your Spare Change
While most Bicentennial quarters are still just worth 25 cents, certain rare varieties have stunned the numismatic world with values exceeding $250,000. In a few extreme cases based on provenance, condition, and rarity estimates have even hinted at totals reaching $1 million or more.
So before you spend that old quarter at the vending machine, take a moment to look closely. You might be holding a small piece of American history one that could also be your ticket to a small fortune.
FAQs
What is the value of a 1976 Bicentennial quarter in average condition?
In average condition, a 1976 Bicentennial quarter is typically worth its face value of 25 cents. However, rare varieties and mint errors can significantly increase its value.
How can I identify a Double Die Obverse Bicentennial quarter?
Look for duplicated images, particularly on the word “LIBERTY,” the date, and George Washington’s profile. These doubled features are most visible under magnification.
Why is the “No S” proof Bicentennial quarter so valuable?
The “No S” proof Bicentennial quarter is valuable because it was minted without the usual “S” mint mark, making it a rare error. Only around 20 examples are known to exist, and they can fetch up to $32,500 or more.
What is the difference between a silver and a clad Bicentennial quarter?
Silver Bicentennial quarters are made of 40% silver, while clad quarters are composed of a copper-nickel mix. Silver quarters are generally more valuable due to their metal content.
How can I check if my Bicentennial quarter is worth a fortune?
Inspect your coin carefully for minting errors like doubling, off-center strikes, or missing mint marks. Use a magnifying glass, weigh the coin, and consider professional grading for rare specimens.