The 1976 Bicentennial quarter holds a special place in the history of American coin collecting, as it marks the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Although most of these coins are common, some rare variants and errors have made some special coins highly sought after among collectors. Some of these coins can fetch prices of up to $45,000 at auction.
In this article, we will discuss nine such rare Bicentennial quarters that can fetch prices of thousands of dollars.
1. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Business Strike)
The San Francisco Mint produced 40% silver-clad Bicentennial quarters specifically for collectors. These coins were not released into general circulation. An excellent, uncirculated MS69 graded coin fetched $19,200 at auction.
2. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Proof Strike)
Proof coins are made specifically for collectors and feature intense detail and a mirror-like luster. A 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter with a PR70 Deep Cameo grade sold for $19,200.
3. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse Error
A doubled die obverse error occurs when the coin design is printed twice in slightly different alignments, making the doubling effect clearly visible. One such coin with an MS68 grade fetched a price of $8,400 at auction.
4. 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Deep Cameo)
Clad proof coins produced by the San Francisco Mint, even though they contain no silver content, can be extremely valuable in top condition. A coin with a PR70 Deep Cameo grade fetched $6,462 at auction.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a 10c Planchet
When a quarter is mistakenly struck on a 10-cent planchet, the result is a smaller coin with an incomplete design. One error coin of this type fetched $17,625 at auction.
6. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike Error
When the coin is not aligned correctly during minting, a portion of the design may be missing. Depending on the degree of the error and the condition of the coin, some coins have sold for as much as $3,500.
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Missing Clad Layer Error
This error involves the clad layer on one side of the coin missing, revealing the copper surface. These rare coins can sell for around $2,500.
8. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Uncirculated Set)
Uncirculated Bicentennial quarters containing 40% silver were sold specifically for collectors. If in MS70 grade, these coins can be extremely valuable. One such coin fetched $6,000 at auction.
9. 1976 Bicentennial quarter with die clash error
A die clash occurs when the obverse and reverse dies collide with each other without a planchet, causing a design to emerge on the other side. Coins with this type of error in Bicentennial quarters can be worth up to $1,500.
Summary Table of Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
| Coin Type | Error/Variety | Grade | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Business Strike) | None | MS69 | $19,200 |
| 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Proof Strike) | None | PR70 DCAM | $19,200 |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter | Doubled Die Obverse | MS68 | $8,400 |
| 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter | None | PR70 DCAM | $6,462 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Struck on 10c Planchet | N/A | $17,625 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Off-Center Strike | N/A | $3,500 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Missing Clad Layer | N/A | $2,500 |
| 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Uncirculated Set) | None | MS70 | $6,000 |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Die Clash Error | N/A | $1,500 |
Conclusion
Coin collecting is truly an amazing world, and the Bicentennial Quarter is no different. Nine quarters, with errors that are rare, in high-grade conditions, and unique varieties have obtained values of as much as $45,000. So, if you happen to have an old quarter lying around, don’t underestimate its worth! Check your collection, look for the key features, and seek an expert’s advice if you suspect you might have something rare. The hidden treasure could be closer than you think!
FAQs
Q.1 How do I identify if my Bicentennial quarter is valuable?
A. If it’s made of silver, has an error, or is in high grade (MS67 or higher), it may be valuable.
Q.2 Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
A. No. Only coins that contain errors, are made of silver, or are in high grade can fetch a high price.
Q.3 Where can I sell my valuable Bicentennial quarter?
A. Coin dealers
Auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions)
Online marketplaces such as eBay (for certified coins only)
Q.4 Can I increase the value of my Bicentennial quarter by cleaning it?
A. No. Cleaning can damage the surface of the coin and reduce its value.
Q.5 What was the most expensive Bicentennial quarter ever sold?
A. Some rare error coins and the highest-grade silver proof coins have sold for prices in excess of $45,000.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter may be not just an ordinary coin but a potential treasure.