The 1976 US bicentennial celebration, when the country celebrated its 200th birthday, was filled with trinkets, collectibles, souvenirs, and other items to buy.
The U.S. Mint also issued bicentennial quarters, which are now highly valuable as the nation approaches its 250th birthday.
Special edition bicentennial coins were made by the Mint in 1975–1976. The reverse design was the first in over 50 years on U.S. quarters.
The Chronicle Collectibles website reported that a 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter with a high grade went for $19,200 at auction a few years ago.
That's not the only expensive bicentennial quarter. Many others have.
According to the U.S. Mint, most of these coins were "clad," or sandwiched nickel, copper, and zinc.
According to Chronicle Collectibles, some bicentennial quarters were 40% silver, which is notable because silver coins are rarer and more valuable.
Coins in perfect condition sell for the most.