This Rare Bicentennial Quarter Has Nearly $60,000 Value: 4 More Worth Over $6,000
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors.
While most of these quarters, featuring the unique dual-date “1776–1976” and a colonial drummer design, are worth their face value of 25 cents, certain rare specimens have reached impressive valuations.
One such Bicentennial Quarter is valued at nearly $60,000, and there are others worth over $6,000 each.
This article explores the features that make some Bicentennial Quarters valuable, the circumstances surrounding their rarity, and how you can determine if you own one of these coveted coins.
The Nearly $60,000 Bicentennial Quarter
A specific 1976 Bicentennial Quarter graded MS68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) holds an estimated value of almost $60,000. The exceptional value of this coin lies in its impeccable condition and rarity in this grade.
Only a handful of Bicentennial Quarters have been graded at such a high level, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Key Features of the $60,000 Bicentennial Quarter:
- Grading: MS68, an extraordinary level of preservation for a coin of this age.
- Minting: Struck at the Denver Mint, denoted by the “D” mintmark.
- Condition: No visible marks, scratches, or flaws, with perfect luster and strike quality.
The rarity of such a high-grade specimen contributes to its extraordinary value. Coins in lower grades or with imperfections are far less valuable.
4 Other Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $6,000
While the nearly $60,000 quarter stands out, several other Bicentennial Quarters have achieved impressive valuations at auction. Here are four examples:
- 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (MS69)
- Value: $19,200
- This quarter, struck in 40% silver, was part of a special minting for collectors. Its near-perfect MS69 grade makes it exceptionally rare and valuable.
- 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (MS68)
- Value: $6,462.50
- Minted in Denver, this copper-nickel clad quarter achieved a high grade of MS68, making it one of the finest examples of its kind.
- 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (PR70DCAM)
- Value: $6,000+
- Proof coins were struck with extra care for collectors, and a perfect grade of PR70DCAM (Deep Cameo) enhances its value significantly.
- 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Errors
- Value: Varies, typically $1,000–$6,000
- Error coins, such as those with double dies, off-center strikes, or die cracks, are highly sought after by collectors. The value depends on the nature and severity of the error.
What Makes a Bicentennial Quarter Valuable?
- High Grades:
- Coins graded MS67 and above are rare and valuable. As grading climbs higher, the rarity—and consequently, the value—of the coin increases exponentially.
- Silver Composition:
- The 40% silver Bicentennial Quarters minted at the San Francisco Mint are more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts, especially in high grades.
- Errors and Varieties:
- Minting errors like double dies, off-center strikes, or planchet issues make certain Bicentennial Quarters more desirable to collectors.
- Demand from Collectors:
- The unique design and historical significance of the Bicentennial Quarter contribute to its desirability, particularly for coins in pristine condition or with rare features.
How to Identify Valuable Bicentennial Quarters
- Check the Mintmark:
- Look for the “S” mintmark for silver coins or the “D” or no mintmark for other varieties.
- Inspect the Condition:
- Coins with minimal wear and pristine surfaces are more valuable. Consider getting your coin graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
- Look for Errors:
- Examine the coin closely for minting errors. Common errors include double dies, misaligned strikes, or off-metal strikes.
- Verify the Composition:
- Silver Bicentennial Quarters are more valuable. Weighing the coin (a silver quarter weighs slightly more than a standard quarter) can help identify its composition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
A1: Not at all. Most Bicentennial Quarters are usual and worth the 25 cents they are worth. Some rare varieties, high-grade coins, or mistake coins are worth a lot of money.
Q2: How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is silver?
Answer 2: Silver Bicentennial Quarters have a “S” mintmark and were only sold in special sets for collectors. You can also look at the coin’s edge or weight. Silver coins have a uniform silver color on the edge.
Q3: What is the highest grade for a Bicentennial Quarter?
A3: A coin with the best grade, MS70 or PR70, is perfect. But these marks have only been given to a very small number of Bicentennial Quarters.
Q4: How much is a circulated Bicentennial Quarter worth?
A4: Bicentennial Quarters that are used often are worth their face value, but fans might pay $1 to $2 for coins that are not used very often.
Q5: Where can I sell a valuable Bicentennial Quarter?
A5: Bicentennial Quarters are valuable and can be sold at coin shops, on eBay, or through professional sale houses like Heritage Auctions.
Q6: Should I get my Bicentennial Quarter graded?
A6: If you think your coin is in very good shape or has some special features, getting it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC can help you figure out how much it is worth and make it easier to sell.