The Bicentennial Quarters was issued by the U.S. Mint in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the signature of the Declaration of Independence.
Although the majority of these coins are still in circulation and are worth their face value, a small number are highly sought after by collectors, with some garnering as much as $150,000. Is it possible for you to have one of these uncommon quarters in your pocket change?
The 4 Rare Bicentennial Quarters You Should Look For
1. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter
Description: Collector’s bundles included special 40% silver Bicentennial Quarters from the San Francisco Mint. Although these quarters were not intended for circulation, a small number were incorporated into the general coin supply.
Value: These coins are worth between $7 and $50 when they are in immaculate condition. Nevertheless, a flawless uncirculated (MS-70) specimen was recently sold for approximately $19,000.
2. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die)
Description: A “doubled die” error is present on certain 1976-D quarters, which is notably evident in the drummer boy’s drumsticks and lettering.
Value: The value of these error coins can vary from $100 to $500, contingent upon their condition. At auction, a high-quality, uncommon specimen in nearly flawless condition was sold for more than $3,000.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with No Mint Mark (Error Coin)
Description: Philadelphia-minted Bicentennial Quarters are not required to bear a mint mark; however, their defects, including off-center strikes or die breaks, are what render them valuable.
Value: The value of high-grade error coins can vary from $50 to over $1,000, contingent upon the severity and uniqueness of the error.
4. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Type 1 and Type 2)
Description: The San Francisco Mint produced proof sets of Bicentennial Quarters that are meticulously detailed and struck on specially prepared planchets. The Type 1 proof is distinguished by a prominent, blocky “S” mint mark, whereas the Type 2 proof has a thinner “S.”
Value: A Type 1 proof quarter in pristine condition is worth between $10 and $500, while a Type 2 coin in flawless condition can be sold for over $3,000.
Value Table of Rare Bicentennial Quarters
| Coin Type | Estimated Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter | $7 – $19,000 | Collector’s set, uncirculated condition |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Error) | $100 – $3,000+ | Error coin, high demand among collectors |
| 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter (Errors) | $50 – $1,000+ | Errors such as off-center strikes |
| 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Type 1 & 2) | $10 – $3,000+ | Proof set, highly sought by collectors |
Where to Sell Rare Bicentennial Quarters
If you are of the opinion that you possess one of these uncommon Bicentennial Quarters, you have the option of having your coin appraised by a professional numismatist or selling it at auction.
The following are some of the most popular locations to sell valuable coins:
- Heritage Auctions: Heritage Auctions is renowned for its high-end coin transactions and can assist you in connecting with serious collectors.
- eBay: Although it is not as specialized as an auction house, eBay enables you to sell your coin directly to customers.
- Local Coin merchants: It is advisable to conduct preliminary research on the reputation of the local merchants, as they may be willing to purchase rare coins.
The pursuit of uncommon Bicentennial Quarters is a guise for a treasure search. While the majority of Bicentennial Quarters are worth only their face value, a few uncommon varieties can be worth thousands, and in some cases, up to $150,000. One of these valuable coins may be discovered by meticulously examining your change or inherited collections.
