Rare Bicentennial Quarters: What Makes Them So Valuable?
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was made to celebrate the 200th birthday of the United States. While most of these coins are only worth 25 cents, a few rare versions have become incredibly valuable because of minting mistakes, unique features, or special collector’s editions.
Let’s break down the most valuable Bicentennial Quarters and why they’re worth so much.
Top 10 Rarest Bicentennial Quarters & Their Value
| No. | Type of Rare Bicentennial Quarter | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $250 Million Error Quarter | $250 Million |
| 2 | Double Die Obverse Quarter | $69 Million+ |
| 3 | Off-Center Strike Quarter | $200,000+ |
| 4 | Overstruck Quarter | $250,000+ |
| 5 | Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter | $15,000+ |
| 6 | 1976-S Silver MS69 Quarter | $19,200 |
| 7 | 1976-D Clad MS68 Quarter | $6,462.50 |
| 8 | 1976 Clad MS67+ Quarter | $1,821 |
| 9 | 1976-S Clad PR67 Quarter | $6,038 |
| 10 | 1976-S Silver PR Quarter | $13,500 |
Inside Look at These Valuable Quarters
1. $250 Million Error Quarter
Rumors say this quarter has a mix of rare metals and extreme minting errors, possibly making it the most valuable coin ever. While unconfirmed, if found, it could be worth a life-changing amount.
2. Double Die Obverse Quarter
This error happens when the coin is struck twice slightly off, causing the letters or numbers to appear doubled. Some examples have reportedly sold for over $69 million.
3. Off-Center Strike Quarter
When the coin is not lined up properly during minting, you get an off-center strike. The more off it is, the rarer the coin. Some have sold for over $200,000.
4. Overstruck Quarter
This coin was mistakenly stamped over another coin—sometimes even a dime or foreign coin. Because no two look exactly the same, they can fetch prices above $250,000.
5. Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
Made for collectors and containing 40% silver, these quarters can be worth more than $15,000 if kept in mint condition.
6. 1976-S Silver MS69 Quarter
Graded MS69, almost perfect, this coin was sold for $19,200 at auction. It’s one of the finest examples of the silver Bicentennial Quarter.
7. 1976-D Clad MS68 Quarter
A Denver-minted clad quarter with a near-perfect MS68 grade once sold for $6,462.50. That’s impressive for a non-silver coin!
8. 1976 Clad MS67+ Quarter
Even though it’s a regular circulation quarter, the MS67+ grade makes it rare and valuable. One sold for $1,821.
9. 1976-S Clad PR67 Quarter
A proof coin made with extra care at the San Francisco Mint. With a PR67 grade, it’s worth over $6,000 due to its clean finish.
10. 1976-S Silver PR Quarter
Another San Francisco silver proof, this one combines silver content with flawless detail. High-grade versions have sold for $13,500 or more.
FAQs About Rare Bicentennial Quarters
Q1: How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is rare?
Look for unusual features like doubled letters, off-center designs, or a silver shine. Using a magnifying glass can help spot rare details.
Q2: Where can I sell a rare quarter?
You can sell them at coin shows, through certified coin dealers, or at online auctions like Heritage Auctions or eBay (if graded).
Q3: Are all 1976 quarters valuable?
No. Most are only worth face value unless they have rare minting errors, high-grade conditions, or are silver proof versions.
Q4: What does “MS” or “PR” mean in coin grading?
“MS” stands for “Mint State” and refers to uncirculated coins. “PR” stands for “Proof,” coins made with special techniques for collectors.