You might be sitting on a fortune if you have some old coins scattered about! Originally struck in 1976 to commemorate 200 years of American freedom, the U.S. Bicentennial Quarter is today much sought for by collectors. Certain rare forms of this coin can be valued almost $45,000 apiece. The most important Bicentennial Quarters will be discussed in this post together with their unique qualities and how to find whether you have one in your collection.
Define a Bicentennial Quarter
Made to honor America’s 200th anniversary, the Bicentennial Quarter was struck in 1975 and 1976. These coins have a unique design unlike those of standard quarters:
- George Washington’s iconic profile is found on the obverse, or front.
- Representing the early colonies, the reverse, or back, shows a colonial drummer surrounded by 13 stars with a torch.
While some of these coins are quite expensive because of flaws, limited mintages, or unusual features, most of them are just 25 cents.
Why Are Some Centennial Quarters Particularly Valuable?
Several elements help to explain the great worth of a Bicentennial Quarter:
- Mint Errors: Rare and expensive are coins with striking faults or double dies.
- Some were coined in 40% silver and value more than ordinary copper-nickel quarters.
- Condition: Coins in mint-state (MS-65 or above) value thousands.
- Proof and Special Strikes: A few very valuable proof coins and deep cameo strikes.
7 Centuries Worth of Quarters Worth up to $45,000 a piece
1. 1976–S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter: Up to $45,000
- Made in San Francisco (S mint mark), these quarters feature forty percent silver.
- Tens of thousands would be worth a perfect Deep Cameo (DCAM) proof.
2. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter: Value More Than $10,000
- Some Denver-minted (D mint mark) quarters show doubling on Washington’s visage or writing.
- The clarity of the doubling will determine how much they sell for—thousands.
3. 1976 No Mint Mark Quarter (Struck on Silver Planchet) – Not less than $25,000.
Most Philadelphia quarters have no mint mark and are composed of copper-nickel, however a few were inadvertently struck on silver planchets, so they are unusual.
4. Valued at $20,000+, the 1976-S Uncirculated Silver Bicentennial Quarter
- These were especially marketed in collector sets and varied from proof coins.
- Perfect condition (MS-68 or above) a quarter might be rather valuable.
5. 1976-D High-Grade MS-69 Bicentennial Quarter – Worth $18,000+
- Very rare are coins graded MS-69, almost flawless condition.
- One auction transaction for a Denver-minted MS-69 achieved almost $18,000.
6. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a Major Off-Center Error – Up to $15,000
- Highly collectible are coins struck far off-center (50% or more).
- The value increases with increasing dramatic nature of the mistake.
7. 1976 Proof Quarter with Missing Clad Layer Worth More than $12,000
- A missing clad coating reveals the inner copper core, which distinguishes the coin.
- It’s a collector’s favourite since of its unusual look.
Where might one find valuable bicentennial quarters?
Should you believe you have an unusual quarter, these are the ideal venues for sales:
- Coin Dealers: Expert numismatists will value your coin.
- Popular sites are Online Auctions; eBay, Heritage Auctions, and Stack’s Bowers.
- Directly interact with collectors ready to pay top cash for coins shows and conventions.
- Companies like PCGS and NGC authenticate and grade coins, therefore enhancing their value.
Conclusion
The Bicentennial Quarter transcends mere pocket change. Although most have face value, unusual varieties might sell hundreds of dollars because of mint mistakes, silver content, and perfect condition. If you have some old quarters, you should take great care; you might find a modest fortune right there!
FAQ’s
1. How do I know if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Check for mint marks, silver content, errors, and overall condition. High-grade coins and those with errors are the most valuable.
2. Are all Bicentennial Quarters rare?
No, most are only worth 25 cents. Only those with errors, high grades, or silver content are considered rare and valuable.