Coin collecting can be an interesting hobby, and sometimes it could turn into a million-dollar find. One of the rarest coins is the 1976 Bicentennial quarter that was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States.
This coin was very attractive for collectors all around the world. Normally, a Bicentennial quarter sells for only 25 cents; however, a few rare and error coins were sold for millions of dollars. According to some reports, some quarters have sold for as much as $94 million!
In this article, we’ll learn which Bicentennial quarters can be worth a lot, how to identify them, and where to sell one if you have one.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter: History and Significance
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was issued by the US Mint in 1975 and 1976 to mark the 200th anniversary of American independence. This coin looks different from the normal quarters as it has a picture of a “drum boy” on the reverse side, designed by renowned artist Jack L. Ahr. It also has the Liberty Bell and the moon motif on it.
This coin was mainly available in three variants:
- 1976 Clad Bicentennial Quarter – This is the most common version, made of copper-nickel.
- 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter – It was minted at the San Francisco Mint and contains 40% silver.
- 1976-S Proof Silver Bicentennial Quarter – This is a premium coin specially designed for collectors.
5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters That Could Be Worth Millions
Although most Bicentennial quarters are worth only $1 to $5, some rare coins have sold for millions of dollars due to special errors, rare composition, and excellent condition (mint condition).
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $19,200
One of the most sought-after Bicentennial quarters is the 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter. These were minted in San Francisco, composed of 40% silver, and intended for collectors. In 2019, a deep cameo proof example graded PR70 DCAM by PCGS sold for $19,200 at auction.
Identify It:
- It has an “S” (San Francisco Mint) mark on it.
- The coin has a more shiny design (cameo effect).
- It contains 40% silver and weighs 5.75 grams (slightly heavier than a normal quarter).
- In 2019, a coin graded PR70 DCAM by PCGS was auctioned for $19,200.
2. 1976 Double Die Obverse Quarter – Worth Up to $45,000
The Double Die Obverse (DDO) Bicentennial Quarter is one of the rarest error coins. This occurs when the coin’s design is mistakenly struck twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect on the text and images.
Identify It:
- The words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear to have double impact.
- Slight doubling may also appear on Washington’s picture (profile).
- This rare coin can be worth up to $45,000.
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3. 1976 Off-Center Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $80,000
When the coin does not fit properly in the minting machine and its design is printed incorrectly, it is called an “off-center quarter.”
Identify It:
- The coin will appear cut in half or made at the wrong angle.
- Some letters or part of the design will be missing.
- An extremely off-center quarter has sold for $80,000.
4. 1976 No Mint Mark Silver Bicentennial Quarter – Estimated Value $120,000+
Most silver Bicentennial quarters were minted at the San Francisco Mint and bear the “S” mark. But some rare coins have been found that have no mint mark, which can make them very expensive.
Identify It:
- It looks like a silver quarter, but has no mint mark.
- It weighs 5.75 grams.
- This rare quarter has sold for over $120,000.
5. The Mysterious $94 Million Bicentennial Quarter – Myth or Reality?
Several online sources claim that a rare Bicentennial quarter was sold for $94 million. However, there is no confirmation of this claim. It is possible that a coin could be worth millions of dollars due to an unknown prototype or special mint error, but no evidence has been found so far.
If you have a unique and rare Bicentennial quarter, have it examined by a certified coin grading service (PCGS or NGC).
Sell a Rare Bicentennial Quarter
If you think you have a rare and valuable Bicentennial quarter, follow these steps to sell it:
1. Grading
- Send the coin for grading and have it authenticated by PCGS or NGC
2. Sell It at a Reputable Auction
- Major auction houses such as Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
3. List It Online
- Sellers can also market their coins in online auctions by using the facilities of platforms such as eBay, Great Collections and others
4. Consult a Professional Coin Dealer
- You need to consult with a professional coin dealer at a nearby coin shop and have them appraise the coin for sale.
Read More :- Three Rare Pennies Found Under Floorboards – One Worth $12 Million!
A 1976 Bicentennial quarter is worth a mere 25 cents. However, in some special cases, where rare editions are involved, it can go as high as millions of dollars. If you have one such unique piece of Bicentennial quarters, get that authenticated right away and try to sell it on the right platform. You might hold a coin worth crores!
FAQs:-
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is valuable because of its unique design, limited edition, and rare minting errors.
How can I get my Bicentennial Quarter graded?
You can send your coin to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication and value assessment.
How can I identify a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for special characteristics like mint errors, unusual designs, or proof versions, such as off-center strikes or doubled inscriptions.