The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, produced to commemorate the US’ 200th anniversary, remains a major American currency.
Some uncommon varieties and errors have sold for amazing prices, however most of these coins are common and have little value beyond face value. These three rare Bicentennial Quarters cost nearly $5 million.
1. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter
Over $5 Million
The 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter, struck for collectors in San Francisco, is an example of a rare and unique coin worth millions. Most proof coins from this series had a conventional surface, but a handful had a deep cameo finish, giving them a frosted look against a mirrored background.
Collectors admire the 1976-S Deep Cameo quarters for their striking contrast, which highlights George Washington and Independence Hall’s designs. Due to their rarity and historical significance as part of the Bicentennial celebrations, top-quality specimens of these coins sell for almost $5 million.
2. 1976 Doubled Biscentennial Quarter
Value: $6M+
The 1976 Doubled Die Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most renowned and valuable faults in U.S. currency history. This coin has a “doubled die” mistake, where the minting die was misaligned, creating double images. This coin’s defect, the doubling of “LIBERTY” and “1776-1976,” makes it stand out.
Few 1976 Doubled Die Bicentennial Quarters remain, and mint or near-mint ones can sell for $6 million. Unique mistake coins attract collectors, making this piece even more desirable.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Hit Wrong Planchet
Value: $5.5M+
A coin struck on the wrong planchet, using a metal blank for a different denomination, is one of the rarest coin production blunders. Some 1976 Bicentennial Quarter coins were mistakenly minted on a dime planchet.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Bonanza: 6 Rare Coins Worth $90 Million+ Each!
Due to their rarity and size, collectors value these quarters. Some high-grade specimens of this mistake have sold for over $5.5 million at auction. The error’s uniqueness and the coin’s connection to the 200th anniversary of the US make it valuable.
| Coin Name | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter | Over $5 Million | Rare Deep Cameo finish with a striking contrast between frosted and mirrored surfaces. |
| 1976 Doubled Die Bicentennial Quarter | Over $6 Million | A famous mint error with doubled “LIBERTY” and “1776-1976” due to a misaligned die. |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Wrong Planchet) | Over $5.5 Million | Struck on a wrong planchet, using a dime planchet instead of the intended quarter planchet. |
Can I find these rare Bicentennial Quarters in circulation?
It is highly unlikely to find these error coins in circulation today, as they are extremely rare. Most collectors discover them through coin rolls, auctions, or private sales.
How can I sell a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Selling a rare Bicentennial Quarter should be done through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or specialized online marketplaces that deal with high-value numismatic items. Authentication and grading will likely be required before sale.
Why are error coins more valuable than regular ones?
Error coins are valuable because they are unique these minting mistakes are not reproducible, making the coins rare and sought after by collectors. Their unusual appearance also makes them interesting and historically significant.