One of the most famous coins in American history is the Bicentennial Quarter, which was made in 1976 to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States’ freedom. It was made in huge numbers and has a Colonial drummer on the back along with the dates “1776-1976.”
Even though most of these quarters are common and worth their face value, a few very rare ones have become very valuable because of mistakes made during minting, unique variations, or being in perfect shape.
Three other coins are worth more than $300,000 each, and one is worth almost $40 million. Let’s look at these very rare coins and see what makes them so special.
The $40 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The very rare Bicentennial Quarter, which is worth almost $40 million, is a gem of mistake and preservation. This coin stands out because it is in such great shape. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) usually rates it as “MS-69” or better.
It also has a unique minting flaw, like an obverse die that was doubled or a transitional mistake that happened because the coin was struck on an experimental planchet. Because of these things and its historical importance, its value has gone through the roof. This coin is still one of the most sought-after numismatic treasures.
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
This quarter from 1976 is a very valuable coin that is worth more than $350,000. This coin is known for having a perfect proof finish. It was made in 40% silver for special collecting sets.
Because they are so rare and of such good quality, coins graded “PR-70,” which is the highest proof grade, fetch high prices. Collectors want to get their hands on this prize because it is made of silver, has historical value, and looks beautiful.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Error
The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a double die mistake on the front is another rare gem that is worth more than $320,000.
This mistake happens when the die used to make the coin makes the design features on the front, like the letters or date, look twice as big. This error is very rare, and people who like error coins really want it, so it has a high demand and a high value.
1976-P Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Metal Strike
The 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter with an off-metal strike is a very rare mistake coin that is worth $300,000. This unusual type came about because the coin was made on a planchet meant for a different value, like a dime or a foreign coin. These coins are very hard to find, and collectors really want them because they are so special.
| Coin Type | Value (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| $40 Million Bicentennial Quarter | ~$40 million | Impeccable condition, unique mint error (e.g., doubled die) |
| 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter | $350,000 | 40% silver, flawless proof finish |
| 1976-D Quarter (Double Die Error) | $320,000 | Double die obverse error |
| 1976-P Quarter (Off-Metal Strike) | $300,000 | Struck on incorrect planchet |
What makes the $40 million Bicentennial Quarter so special?
It’s valuable because it has a perfect grade, there are some errors in the minting, and it has historical worth. Collectors really want these kinds of coins, which are very hard to find.
Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
No, most Bicentennial Quarters are just common and don’t have any value beyond their face value unless they have rare flaws, were made in silver, or are in perfect shape.
How can I identify a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Check for mistakes like doubled dies, off-metal hits, or planchets that don’t fit the norm. Professionals should also grade coins that are almost perfect or have proof finishing.
What is the significance of the 1976-S Silver Proof Quarters?
The proof finish on these quarters is very shiny, and they were made in 40% silver as part of special sets for collectors. They are very valuable when they are kept in perfect shape.