Bicentennial quarters, minted in 1975 and 1976, are celebrated collectibles. Featuring a unique design to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, these quarters stand out with a dual-date (1776–1976) and special reverse design of a colonial drummer.
While most are worth face value, rare varieties and errors can command astonishing prices. Below, we highlight nine of the most valuable Bicentennial quarters, with collective values estimated at $20 million, plus six more worth over $950,000.
9 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth $20 Million
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter (Perfect Grade)
The 1976-S Silver Proof, minted in 40% silver, is highly sought after. Perfect grades like PR70 can reach over $15,000.
2. 1976-S Clad Proof Quarter with Errors
Rare proof quarters struck on the wrong planchet or with doubled die errors can fetch up to $35,000 at auction.
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3. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (High-Grade)
High-grade Denver mint examples, particularly MS68 or higher, sell for over $6,000 due to their exceptional condition.
4. 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Quarter (High-Grade)
In pristine condition, these quarters sell for $5,000–$10,000 due to their 40% silver composition and limited production.
5. Doubled Die Bicentennial Quarters
Bicentennial quarters with doubled die obverses or reverses, showing noticeable image doubling, are worth $5,000–$10,000 depending on the clarity.
6. 1976 Clad Quarter Struck on a Silver Planchet
This minting error is extremely rare, valued at $7,000–$10,000 or more depending on condition.
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Wrong Planchet Error
Examples struck on foreign or other U.S. coin planchets, such as dimes or half dollars, can command $15,000–$20,000.
8. 1976 Proof Quarter with Missing Clad Layer
Missing a clad layer results in a copper appearance and can be worth over $5,000 in auctions.
9. Experimental Planchet Bicentennial Quarters
Quarters struck on experimental or unapproved planchets are among the rarest, with values reaching $10,000 to $25,000.
6 Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $950,000
1. 1976-S Silver Quarter (Graded PR69 or PR70)
These high-grade proofs routinely exceed $4,000, with rarer grades pushing five figures.
2. Mint State Bicentennial Quarters with Toning
Beautifully toned examples are highly collectible, sometimes exceeding $3,000 at auction.
3. Off-Center Strike Errors
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Significant off-center strike errors are worth $3,000–$5,000 based on severity and condition.
4. Broadstruck Bicentennial Quarters
A mint error where the coin is struck outside the collar can be valued at $1,000–$3,500.
5. 1976-D Quarter with Full Steps Designation
Quarters with sharp, full drum details can command $1,500–$3,000 in high mint states.
6. 1976 Quarter with Improper Clad Bonding
These rare minting anomalies are valued at $950 to $3,000, depending on visual impact.
How to Identify Rare Bicentennial Quarters
- Look for Errors: Check for missing clad layers, doubled dies, or off-center strikes.
- Examine the Planchet: Use a scale to detect wrong planchet errors; clad quarters weigh 5.67 grams, and silver ones weigh 5.75 grams.
- Focus on Condition: Coins in higher grades (MS67–MS70 or PR68–PR70) are significantly more valuable.
| Quarter Type | Rarity/Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Silver Proof (PR70) | High-Grade | $15,000+ |
| 1976-D Mint State (MS68+) | High-Grade | $6,000+ |
| Doubled Die Reverse | Error | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | Error | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Missing Clad Layer | Error | $5,000+ |
| Struck on Wrong Planchet | Error | $15,000–$20,000 |
| Broadstruck Quarter | Error | $1,000–$3,500 |
What makes Bicentennial quarters so valuable?
Rarity, condition, mint errors, and special compositions (like silver proof versions) drive value.
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Silver quarters have a distinct edge without a copper stripe and weigh slightly more than clad versions.
Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial quarter?
Sell to coin dealers, auction houses, or through online platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or Stack’s Bowers.
Are all Bicentennial quarters rare?
No, the vast majority are common and worth face value, but rare errors and high-grade examples can be valuable.
With these tips and examples, you’ll know what to look for in Bicentennial quarters. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a collector, identifying rare varieties can make a world of difference.