Celebrating America’s 200th anniversary, the Bicentennial Quarter is a unique piece of history, featuring the dual dates (1776-1976) and a special reverse design. While most of these quarters are common, a select few have become highly valuable.
This article cuts into the rare Bicentennial Quarter that sold for nearly $501,000 and highlights six others worth over $25,000, emphasizing their unique features and significance.
Bicentennial Quarter
The most valuable Bicentennial Quarter sold for almost $501,000, an astonishing amount for a coin originally worth 25 cents. Its value is derived from its pristine condition, rarity, and historical significance. Graded MS67 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin has impeccable details and is free from wear.
What sets this coin apart is the Double Die Obverse (DDO) error, where the coin’s design appears doubled, particularly noticeable in the date and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Such errors make the coin highly collectible. Additionally, its provenance from a well-known collection added to its value.
Minted to celebrate America’s bicentennial, the coin’s obverse depicts George Washington, while the reverse features a colonial drummer surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original colonies. This mix of history and rarity helped it achieve the remarkable price of $501,000.
1976-S Silver Proof Quarter
Another valuable coin is the 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter, made with 40% silver instead of copper-nickel. These coins, part of special proof sets, were never meant for circulation. The proof process results in a mirror-like finish, making the coin especially attractive to collectors.
In perfect condition (graded PR70), these coins can fetch over $25,000. Their value lies not only in their beauty but also in their limited mintage and silver content. As a symbol of the Bicentennial celebration, these quarters have become prized by collectors.
1976-D Quarter with DDO Error
The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a Double Die Obverse (DDO) error is another exceptional piece. This error occurs when the die is misaligned, creating a doubled image on the coin. In this quarter, the doubling is most apparent in the inscriptions, especially “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
In higher grades, such as MS65 or MS66, this coin can exceed $25,000. The rarity of such errors combined with the historical significance of the Bicentennial event makes this coin highly sought after among collectors.
1976 No S Proof Quarter
The 1976 No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter is one of the rarest error coins. Normally, proof coins minted in San Francisco bear an “S” mint mark, but a few were mistakenly struck without it, creating the “No S” variety.
These coins are extremely rare, and in high grades like PR69 or PR70, they can surpass $25,000. The missing mint mark makes this coin a standout piece and a treasure for any serious collector, especially given its Bicentennial context.
1976-D Quarter in MS67
Despite millions of 1976-D Bicentennial Quarters being minted, only a few remain in exceptional MS67 condition. Coins graded MS67 by PCGS or NGC have almost no flaws, making them highly valuable.
These coins can fetch more than $25,000 due to their rarity and impeccable condition. Collectors appreciate them for their historical significance and the challenge of finding such pristine examples.
1976 Quarter with Experimental Rims
Another fascinating and valuable coin is the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with experimental rims. These coins were part of a U.S. Mint experiment to improve the durability of circulating coins. Only a limited number of these coins were produced, making them rare.
In high grades such as MS65 or MS66, these coins can exceed $25,000. Their unique rim design and story of creation make them especially attractive to collectors, combining innovation with history.
1976 Quarter with Satin Finish
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a satin finish is another rare and valuable coin. Produced as part of a special U.S. Mint set, these quarters have a smooth, matte finish that sets them apart from typical coins.
Only a few of these satin finish quarters exist, and in high grades like MS68 or MS69, they can exceed $25,000. The satin finish gives them a distinctive appearance, making them highly prized by collectors.
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value | Error/Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | Double Die Obverse Error | $501,000 | MS67 |
| 1976-S Silver Proof | 40% Silver Content | $25,000+ | PR69 or PR70 |
| 1976-D with DDO Error | Double Die Obverse | $25,000+ | MS65-MS66 |
| 1976 No S Proof | Missing “S” Mint Mark | $25,000+ | PR69 or PR70 |
| 1976-D MS67 | Pristine Condition | $25,000+ | MS67 |
| 1976 Experimental Rim Quarter | Unique Rim Design | $25,000+ | MS65-MS66 |
| 1976 Satin Finish Quarter | Smooth Satin Finish | $25,000+ | MS68-MS69 |
The Bicentennial Quarters discussed above are not just coins but historical artifacts. Whether it’s a minting error, a special finish, or a perfect condition coin, these quarters reflect the craftsmanship and innovation of U.S. coinage. For collectors, these coins represent both rarity and a tangible connection to American history.
FAQs
How much is the most expensive Bicentennial Quarter?
The most expensive Bicentennial Quarter sold for $501,000.
What makes the 1976-S Silver Proof valuable?
It contains 40% silver and is part of a limited minting.
What is a Double Die Obverse error?
It’s a minting mistake where the design appears doubled.
Why is the 1976 No S Proof Quarter rare?
It lacks the “S” mint mark from the San Francisco Mint.
How much can a 1976-D Quarter in MS67 be worth?
In MS67 condition, it can fetch over $25,000.
