Discover the 5 Most Valuable Bicentennial Quarters Worth Millions

INTRODUCTION

The Bicentennial Quarter 1776-1976 was issued to mark the 200th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence. While most Bicentennial quarters are still in circulation and are worth only their face value, some rare variants can sell for thousands of dollars.

These coins are highly prized by collectors for special reasons such as minting errors, limited issues, or excellent condition. Let’s take a look at 5 very rare and valuable quarter-century pieces that every collector should know about.

1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter

1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
  • Mint Location: San Francisco
  • Composition: 40% silver
  • Estimated Price: Up to $19,200
  • Main Features: This proof coin was minted especially for collectors and contains 40% silver. It is special because of its bright luster and its slightly heavier weight than the copper-nickel coin. Its rarity lies in its unworn condition and its being part of a special mint release.
  • Historical significance: These silver proof coins were not for circulation, but for collectors. When in perfect condition, they can fetch more than $19,000 at auction.

2. 1976 Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter

  • Mint Location: Philadelphia
  • Estimated Price: up to $55,000
  • Main Features: This coin has a unique mint flaw, where the die pressed the design twice, clearly doubling the dates and markings Two flaws are always highly prized by collectors because they are different.
  • Market Impact: These rare quarterbacks sold for over $55,000 at auction, especially in mint condition.

3. 1976 Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter

1976 Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter
  • Mint Location: Several
  • Estimated Price: up to $50,000.
  • Key Features: off-center strike errors occur when the coin is misaligned during striking to acquire an impression of the design on the wrong place. These are really exceptional, especially if an important part of the design is perfect, and the date is readable.
  • Collector Appeal: These coins are in demand not only because of their rarity, but the mystery of these errors also makes them more attractive. A preserved off-center strike Bicentennial quarter in good condition can be worth up to $50,000.

4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Full Drum Lines

1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Full Drum Lines
  • Mint Location: Various
  • Estimated Price: Up to $55,000
  • Key Features: The reverse side of the Bicentennial Quarter depicts a colonial drummer. Such coins in which every line of the drum is clean and clear, are considered extremely rare and highly valuable.
  • Minting Quality: There are only a few coins that have completely perfect drum lines, making these coins highly valuable. In excellent condition, these coins can sell for up to $55,000.

5. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter (Clad Proof)

1976-S Bicentennial Quarter (Clad Proof)
  • Mint Location: San Francisco
  • Estimated Price: Up to $6,462
  • Special Features: This coin is designed as Clad Proof (Coppers-Nickel) and has a crystal-like surface due to its Proof finish. Included in a special mint set sold to collectors, the price is tied to its condition and proof quality.
  • Auction Record: Most expensive 1976-S Clad Proof sold in 2017 for $6,462.

Top 5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters

CoinMint MarkCompositionKey FeatureEstimated Value (Max)
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial QuarterS40% silverMinted for collectors$19,200
1976 Double Die Obverse Bicentennial QuarterPCopper-nickelDouble die error$55,000
1976 Off-Center Strike Bicentennial QuarterVariousCopper-nickelOff-center strike error$50,000
1976 Full Drum Lines Bicentennial QuarterVariousCopper-nickelPerfect drum lines$55,000
1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial QuarterSCopper-nickelMirror-like surface$6,462

CONCLUSION

Bicentennial quarters are not only pieces of history but also treasures for some coin collectors. Whether you are searching for the famous silver proof, double die error, or another drum design perfectly printed, such rare coins can be worth thousands of dollars. For collectors, finding these rare coins is a thrilling experience and can also prove to be a profitable investment.

FAQ’s

Are both centuries worth 25 cents more?

No

How many silver-sized 1976-S bicentennial quarters?

In perfect condition, the 1976-S silver certificate quarter can be worth $19,200 depending on its score and rarity.


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