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The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $100K, Still Circulating

Published

46 minutes ago

February 2, 2025

Kelly

The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $100K, Still Circulating

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter holds a special place in American numismatics, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence.

While millions were minted, certain rare variants have become highly sought after by collectors, with some fetching prices upwards of $100,000.

Understanding the Bicentennial Quarter

In 1976, the U.S. Mint released a special quarter featuring a unique design to celebrate the nation’s bicentennial.

The obverse retained the traditional portrait of George Washington, accompanied by the dual date “1776–1976.” The reverse showcased a colonial drummer, symbolizing the Revolutionary War era.

Factors Contributing to High Value

Several factors can elevate the value of a Bicentennial Quarter:

Minting Errors: Coins with errors such as double strikes, clipped planchets, or misalignments are particularly valuable.
Proof Coins: Specially minted proof coins, especially those with a deep cameo finish, are highly sought after.
Silver Composition: Some Bicentennial Quarters were minted in 40% silver, intended for collector sets, and are more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts.
Condition: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition with high grading scores command premium prices.

Notable High-Value Bicentennial Quarters

While most Bicentennial Quarters are common, certain rare variants have achieved remarkable auction results:

Coin Type	Description	Approximate Value
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter	A proof coin minted in San Francisco with a 40% silver composition and deep cameo finish.	Up to $19,200
Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter	Features a noticeable doubling in the design elements on the obverse side due to a minting error.	Over $100,000
Clipped Planchet Error Bicentennial Quarter	Exhibits a distinctive clipped edge resulting from an error during the planchet cutting process.	Between $100,000 and $150,000

Identifying Valuable Bicentennial Quarters

To determine if you possess a valuable Bicentennial Quarter, consider the following steps:

Examine the Mint Mark: Located below the date on the obverse side, the mint mark indicates where the coin was produced. Coins with an “S” mint mark were struck in San Francisco and are often proof coins.
Assess the Coin’s Condition: Coins with minimal wear, scratches, or blemishes are more valuable. Professional grading can provide an accurate assessment of a coin’s condition.
Look for Errors: Carefully inspect the coin for any anomalies, such as doubling of design elements, off-center strikes, or unusual edges.
Check the Edge: Silver Bicentennial Quarters have a solid silver edge without the copper stripe found in standard quarters.

The Ongoing Hunt

Despite the passage of time, it’s still possible to find valuable Bicentennial Quarters in circulation. Many people are unaware of the potential worth of these coins, making everyday transactions a potential treasure hunt for keen-eyed individuals.

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is more than just a piece of currency; it’s a tangible piece of American history. While most are common, certain rare variants can be worth substantial amounts, sometimes exceeding $100,000. Collectors and enthusiasts should remain vigilant, as these valuable coins may still be hiding in plain sight.