The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most famous coins in American numismatics, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the United States.
Featuring a drummer and the Liberty Bell on the reverse, this quarter stands out not only for its unique design but also for its role in American history.
While the majority of 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are worth their face value of 25 cents, certain rare errors have made specific coins worth a small fortune.
Some of these errors have pushed the value of these quarters into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, and others have even exceeded $7,000 USD.
In this blog, we will explore these rare and valuable Bicentennial Quarters, giving you the information you need to spot these gems in your pocket change.
1. The $550,000 Bicentennial Quarter: The “No Mint Mark” Error
Value: $550,000 USD (or more)
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: No mint mark
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Why It’s Valuable: The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted in two primary locations: the Philadelphia Mint and the Denver Mint. Most quarters minted in Philadelphia carry the “P” mint mark, but a small number of 1976 Philadelphia quarters were accidentally struck without any mint mark at all.
- This rare mistake makes the no mint mark error one of the most sought-after varieties in the world of coin collecting. When found in excellent condition, these coins have been sold for up to $550,000 USD.
- Condition Matters: Like any rare coin, the condition (or grade) of the coin plays a major role in its value. High-grade examples of this error, especially those graded MS-67 or higher, are the most valuable.
What to Look For:
- A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with no mint mark on the reverse. Typically, the Philadelphia Mint coins would have a “P” mint mark, but in this error, it’s completely absent.
2. The $20,000 Bicentennial Quarter: The Double Die Obverse Error
Value: $20,000 USD (or more)
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Double Die Obverse
- Why It’s Valuable: The double die obverse error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is misaligned, causing the design to be doubled in certain areas.
- This can happen with any part of the design, but on the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, the most noticeable double die features are on the date (1976) and the inscription “In God We Trust”.
- Collectors highly value this error because of its visual distinctiveness and rarity. These doubled features make the coin particularly desirable, with well-preserved examples fetching prices of up to $20,000 USD or more, depending on the quality of the coin.
- Condition Matters: As with all coins, high-grade specimens (like those graded MS-65 or higher) are worth much more. The degree of doubling also plays a role in determining the value of these coins.
What to Look For:
- Doubling in the date (1976) and the “In God We Trust” inscription. The doubling will make the design appear blurry or doubled in specific places.
3. The $7,500 Bicentennial Quarter: The Silver-Clad Planchet Error
Value: $7,500 USD (or more)
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Silver-clad planchet
- Why It’s Valuable: Most 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were struck on copper-nickel clad planchets, but some were mistakenly struck on silver-clad planchets, which were intended for proof coin sets.
- The result is a silver-colored coin that stands out from the usual copper-nickel quarters. Because these coins are made of silver and have a mirror-like finish, they are incredibly rare and highly collectible.
- In excellent condition, a silver-clad planchet error 1976 Bicentennial Quarter can be worth around $7,500 USD, or more depending on its grade.
- Condition Matters: Coins with sharp details, a mirror-like surface, and minimal wear can significantly increase the coin’s value. Those graded as proof-like are the most valuable.
What to Look For:
- A silver-colored quarter with mirror-like surfaces—this is a clear indication that the coin was struck on a silver-clad planchet.
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Error Type | Value Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Error) | 1976 | No mint mark | $550,000 USD | Missing mint mark on reverse (no “P” or “D” mint mark) |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse) | 1976 | Double die obverse | $20,000 USD | Doubling of the date and “In God We Trust” inscription |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver-Clad Planchet Error) | 1976 | Silver-clad planchet error | $7,500 USD | Silver color and mirror-like finish |
What is the most valuable error in the 1976 Bicentennial Quarters?
The no mint mark error is considered the most valuable error, especially those from the Philadelphia Mint. These coins are extremely rare and can fetch up to $550,000 USD or more, depending on the condition of the coin.
How can I sell my rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarter?
You can sell a rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarter through coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms like eBay.
However, it is recommended to have your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC before selling it to ensure you get the best price.
How do I get my 1976 Bicentennial Quarter authenticated?
To authenticate your rare Bicentennial Quarter, you should send it to a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
They will inspect the coin, assign it a grade, and provide you with a certificate of authenticity, which can significantly increase its value.