The 1976 Bicentennial quarter, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history.
While the majority of these quarters are valued at face value or modest amounts, certain rare varieties and mint errors have become highly sought-after by collectors, reaching incredible values in the millions.
One unique quarter is estimated to be worth nearly $15 million, with several others worth over $250,000. In this guide, we explore these rare and valuable coins, highlighting the factors that make them so prized.
The Nearly $15 Million Bicentennial Quarter
1. 1976-S Experimental Planchet Bicentennial Quarter (Nearly $15 Million USD)
This rare coin was struck on an experimental planchet during testing phases at the U.S. Mint. Experimental planchets are unique and often feature different alloys or metals, which make them one-of-a-kind.
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Due to its historical significance, rarity, and unique composition, this particular quarter has been valued at nearly $15 million USD. As it is the only known example, it is regarded as one of the most valuable and sought-after Bicentennial quarters in existence.
- Key Features: Struck on an experimental planchet, unique metal composition, historical importance.
- Value: Nearly $15,000,000
6 More Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $250,000
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Gold Planchet (Over $500,000 USD)
This error coin was struck on a gold planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel clad or silver. The rarity of the gold planchet, combined with the mistake of using it for a Bicentennial quarter, makes it extremely valuable.
These quarters have sold for upwards of $500,000, depending on the specific characteristics, such as gold purity, weight, and condition.
- Key Features: Struck on a gold planchet, rare minting error, high intrinsic value.
- Value: $500,000+
3. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Silver Planchet (Over $400,000 USD)
A rare minting error occurred when a Bicentennial quarter from the Denver Mint was struck on a silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel clad.
These coins are highly valuable due to the rarity of the error and the difference in metal content. They are estimated to be worth anywhere between $400,000 and $500,000, depending on the coin’s condition and grading.
- Key Features: Struck on a silver planchet, mint error, rare find.
- Value: $400,000–$500,000
4. 1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter (Over $250,000 USD)
The 1976 Doubled Die Obverse Bicentennial quarter features a visible doubling on the obverse, including the inscription “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” This error occurs when the coin dies are misaligned during the minting process, leading to a noticeable duplication of the design.
Due to its rarity and striking appearance, these quarters can be valued at over $250,000, depending on their condition.
- Key Features: Doubled die error, visible doubling on text, striking appearance.
- Value: $250,000–$350,000
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Foreign Planchet (Over $250,000 USD)
In some cases, Bicentennial quarters were accidentally struck on planchets intended for foreign coins, resulting in size and weight variations. These coins are valuable because of the unusual metal composition and error in the minting process.
A foreign planchet error can cause a coin to be smaller or larger than the standard quarter, increasing its rarity and value. These pieces have been known to sell for over $250,000.
- Key Features: Struck on a foreign planchet, irregular size and weight, rare mint error.
- Value: $250,000–$300,000
6. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter Broad strike Error (Over $250,000 USD)
A broad strike error occurs when a coin is struck without being properly ejected from the die, causing the coin to expand beyond its normal size and take on a distorted shape.
This error is rare, especially for Bicentennial quarters, and can be worth over $250,000, depending on the severity of the error and the coin’s condition.
- Key Features: Struck without retaining collar, distorted shape, rare mint error.
- Value: $250,000+
Why These Quarters Are So Valuable
- Rarity: The value of these coins is largely driven by their rarity. Most of these varieties or errors occurred by chance, and only a handful of examples exist.
- Historical Significance: Bicentennial coins commemorate a milestone in American history—the nation’s 200th anniversary—making them particularly desirable to collectors.
- Condition: Coins that are in near-perfect or flawless condition, like those graded PR70, command the highest prices.
- Mint Errors: Errors, such as being struck on the wrong planchet or with a doubled die, are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and unique characteristics.
| Quarter Type | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental Planchet Quarter | Struck on test alloy | $15,000,000 |
| Gold Planchet Struck Quarter | Struck on a gold planchet | $500,000+ |
| Silver Planchet Struck Quarter | Struck on a silver planchet | $400,000–$500,000 |
| Doubled Die Obverse Quarter | Doubled die error, visible doubling on text | $250,000–$350,000 |
| Foreign Planchet Struck Quarter | Struck on a foreign planchet | $250,000–$300,000 |
| Broad strike Error Quarter | Distorted shape from broad strike | $250,000+ |
Why are some Bicentennial quarters worth millions?
Certain Bicentennial quarters are worth millions due to rare mint errors, such as being struck on gold or silver planchets, or having unique characteristics, such as perfect grading or doubled dies. These factors, combined with historical significance, make them highly valuable.
How can I determine if my Bicentennial quarter is worth a lot of money?
To determine if your quarter is valuable, look for signs of mint errors such as doubled die, incorrect planchets, or unique features like perfect grading.
Professional grading and certification by services like PCGS or NGC are essential for confirming the coin’s authenticity and value.
Can I find rare Bicentennial quarters in circulation?
It’s unlikely to find these rare coins in circulation due to their scarcity. Most of the high-value coins have been discovered and authenticated by collectors or through auctions.
Where can I sell my rare Bicentennial quarter?
Rare coins can be sold through reputable auction houses, numismatic dealers, or online platforms that specialize in high-value collectibles. Professional certification is important to ensure you get the best price for your coin.
Conclusion
Bicentennial quarters are more than just a token of American history—they are highly valuable collectibles, especially when they feature rare mint errors or are in flawless condition.
Whether struck on gold or silver planchets, or exhibiting minting mistakes, these quarters can be worth millions.
For collectors, owning one of these rare coins is not just about holding a piece of currency—it’s about possessing a unique artifact that represents both historical and numismatic significance.