Rare Bicentennial Quarters Selling for Over $40,000 – Could One Be Hiding in Your Pocket?

The U.S. Mint released the Bicentennial Quarter in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence. These coins featured a special reverse design with a colonial drummer and were produced in large quantities. While most Bicentennial Quarters are common and worth only their face value, a few rare varieties have fetched astonishing sums at auction, with some selling for over $40,000.

If you’ve ever held onto your spare change from the ’70s or inherited a collection, now may be the perfect time to inspect it closely. You could be in possession of a highly valuable Bicentennial Quarter without even realizing it. Here’s a closer look at what to watch for in these coins.

Bicentennial Quarter – No Mint Mark Error

Coins without a mint mark were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. While most of these are quite common, a few error varieties with missing or partial mint marks can be worth significantly more. Collectors highly prize these types of minting mistakes, which can add thousands of dollars to the coin’s value.

Bicentennial Quarter – 1976-S Silver Proof

The San Francisco Mint struck a limited number of Bicentennial Quarters in 40% silver for collectors. These proof coins were sold in special sets and never intended for circulation, making them highly collectible. In pristine condition, these silver proof quarters can command premium prices in the coin market.

Bicentennial Quarter – Double Die Obverse

One of the most coveted errors among Bicentennial Quarters is the double die obverse. This type of error occurs when the coin’s design is struck twice, resulting in a doubling effect on the lettering or other elements of the coin’s obverse side. Double die errors are rare and can drive up the coin’s value significantly.

Bicentennial Quarter – High Grade MS67 or Higher

Most circulated Bicentennial Quarters show signs of wear and tear, which lowers their value. However, uncirculated coins with flawless surfaces can fetch a fortune at auction. Coins graded MS67 or higher (mint state) are particularly rare and desirable to collectors, with some fetching over $40,000.

Coin NameMint MarkError TypeEstimated ValueGrade
Bicentennial QuarterNoneNo Mint Mark$5,000+MS65
Bicentennial QuarterSSilver Proof$10,000+PR70
Bicentennial QuarterDDouble Die Obverse$15,000+MS66
Bicentennial QuarterPHigh Grade$40,000+MS67

While many Bicentennial Quarters are common, rare varieties, especially those with errors or in top condition, can be worth a small fortune. It’s worth taking a close look at any quarters you may have tucked away. You never know—you might have one of these valuable coins hiding in your pocket!

FAQs

What makes a Bicentennial Quarter valuable?

The value of a Bicentennial Quarter can increase significantly if it has minting errors, is made of silver, or is in uncirculated condition with a high grade from a professional grading service.

How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?

Examine your coin for errors like a double die or missing mint mark. You should also consider getting it graded by a professional to determine its condition and value.

What is the most valuable Bicentennial Quarter?

The most valuable Bicentennial Quarters are typically high-grade coins with minting errors, with some selling for over $40,000.

Where can I sell my Bicentennial Quarter?

You can sell valuable Bicentennial Quarters through reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces that specialize in collectible coins.

Sandy Dane
Sandy Dane
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