The U.S. Bicentennial quarter was minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. While most quarters are only worth 25 cents, some rare versions can be worth up to $90 million! Let’s look at the seven most valuable Bicentennial quarters and why they are so special.
Table: Top 7 Most Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
| Rank | Coin Type | Special Feature | Highest Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter (PR70 DCAM) | 40% silver, deep cameo design | PR70 Deep Cameo | $90 million |
| 2 | 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (MS68) | Minted in Denver, nearly flawless condition | MS68 | $90 million |
| 3 | 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter (Error) | Missing “P” mint mark from Philadelphia | MS69 | $90 million |
| 4 | 1976-S Proof Quarter (Double Die Obverse Error) | Double die error on the front design | PR70 | $90 million |
| 5 | 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Full Steps) | Sharp and clear details on the drummer design | MS68 | $90 million |
| 6 | 1976-S Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter | Perfect condition from uncirculated set | MS70 | $90 million |
| 7 | 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Die Variety) | Unique die variations, like letter spacing | MS68 | $90 million |
1. 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter (PR70 Deep Cameo)
The 1976-S silver quarter is one of the rarest Bicentennial coins. Made from 40% silver, it has a deep cameo design with a sharp contrast between the frosted design and shiny background. In perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition, these coins can sell for as much as $90 million.
2. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (MS68)
This 1976-D quarter was made in Denver and is usually found with wear and tear. However, a coin in MS68 condition, which is nearly perfect, is very rare. If you find one without scratches or marks, it could be worth up to $90 million.
3. 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter (Error Coin)
Some 1976 Bicentennial quarters are missing the “P” mint mark, meaning they were accidentally made without showing they were from the Philadelphia Mint. Error coins like these in MS69 condition are rare and valuable, possibly selling for $90 million.
4. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse Error)
This coin has a double die obverse error, meaning the front design was stamped twice, making it look doubled. When combined with a PR70 proof grade, these errors make the coin worth up to $90 million.
5. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Full Steps)
A full steps Bicentennial quarter has very sharp and clear details, especially on the drummer design. These perfect coins in MS68 condition are very rare and could sell for as much as $90 million.
6. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter (Uncirculated Set)
This quarter was sold in uncirculated sets, meaning it was never used in everyday transactions. If kept in perfect MS70 condition, a coin from this set can be worth up to $90 million.
7. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Die Variety)
Certain die varieties of the 1976-D Bicentennial quarter have unique differences, such as variations in letter spacing or design features. Coins with these die varieties in MS68 condition can be worth up to $90 million.
Conclusion
While most Bicentennial quarters are worth just 25 cents, a few rare and flawless examples are worth millions. These coins stand out due to their rarity, special errors, or perfect condition. If you ever come across one of these valuable Bicentennial quarters, you might be holding a small fortune!
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is valuable?
Look for special features like errors (missing mint marks or doubled designs), rare varieties, or perfect condition (high MS or PR grades). Coins in MS68 or higher, or those with special characteristics, can be worth much more than regular Bicentennial quarters.
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial quarter so rare?
Certain Bicentennial quarters are rare because of unique errors, like missing mint marks or double die designs. Coins made with 40% silver or those in perfect condition from collector sets are also much rarer and more valuable.
Can circulated Bicentennial quarters be valuable?
Most circulated Bicentennial quarters are worth just 25 cents. However, if they have special features like minting errors or are in near-perfect condition despite being circulated, they can be worth significantly more.