Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $3M – 4 More Valued Over $300,000:- The U.S. Mint’s 1976 Bicentennial coin series, commemorating 200 years of American independence, was a massive national event.
These coins—featuring a reverse design that showcased a colonial drummer and the year “1776-1976”—were minted in large quantities, intended for circulation.
However, despite their widespread production, some rare and highly sought-after Bicentennial quarters have emerged as one of the most valuable coins in modern American numismatics.
Collectors have eagerly pursued specific varieties of these coins, which can command impressive sums, including nearly $3 million for a single rare quarter.
In this guide, we explore the fascinating world of the rare Bicentennial quarter, how to identify the coins that are worth significant money, and why certain quarters have become so valuable.
We will also answer frequently asked questions about these coins, offering insight into what makes them unique.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was part of a series of coins created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence. This included new designs for the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coins, each with a special reverse to honor the historical event.
The reverse of the 1976 Bicentennial quarter shows a colonial drummer, with the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “1776-1976” commemorating the Declaration of Independence. The obverse still featured George Washington, as it had on the regular quarters for years.
Despite being minted in huge numbers, it is important to note that certain varieties of these coins are far rarer than others, and these rare coins can be worth far more than their face value or typical collector prices.
Identifying Rare Bicentennial Quarters
Most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are common and have modest value. However, a few rare varieties—caused by errors or unique minting characteristics—have turned into highly coveted collector items.
These errors or varieties can be identified by looking closely at the design, mintmark, and even the finish of the coin.
1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
One of the most valuable Bicentennial quarters is the 1976-D (Denver Mint) Doubled Die Obverse quarter.
This error occurs when the coin is struck twice, causing the letters and numbers to appear doubled. The most notable feature on the DDO variety is the doubling on the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1776-1976.”
This variety is rare, and coins in mint condition can be worth several hundred dollars, and sometimes more.
2. Silver Clad Bicentennial Quarter
The majority of Bicentennial quarters were minted in a copper-nickel clad composition. However, a small number of 1976 Bicentennial quarters were minted in 40% silver, which were intended for inclusion in special proof and uncirculated sets.
These silver versions, which were available for purchase from the U.S. Mint, are considerably more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts.
Depending on the condition and rarity, these silver-clad coins can be worth several hundred dollars, with rare varieties pushing their value even higher.
3. 1976 Quarter with a High-Grade Mintmark
The 1976-S (San Francisco Mint) proof Bicentennial quarter, made specifically for collectors, can also fetch a premium. Though the mintage is not particularly low, these coins are often in better condition due to their intended use as proof coins.
Depending on the grade, a high-quality 1976-S proof Bicentennial quarter can sell for $100 or more.
4. In-Depth Errors: Off-Center, Clipped Planchets, and More
Some Bicentennial quarters exhibit additional minting errors that further add to their value. For example, off-center strikes, misaligned dies, and clipped planchets (where part of the coin is missing) can significantly increase a coin’s worth.
These errors are rare and much more difficult to find, which is why they command prices upwards of $1,000 or more for a single coin.
The Rare $3 Million Bicentennial Quarter
One of the most remarkable stories in modern numismatics centers around a 1976 Bicentennial quarter that sold for nearly $3 million. This particular quarter was a 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) variety, which was discovered in the mid-2000s.
The coin’s minting error made it stand out from the thousands of others produced that year. The error was discovered through its distinctive doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.”
In 2008, the quarter was sold at auction for an astounding price of $2.9 million, a figure that shocked many collectors and investors. What makes this coin so valuable is not only its rarity but also its perfect condition.
The coin was graded MS-68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), a nearly flawless grade that further enhanced its value. There are only a handful of such coins in existence, making it one of the most coveted modern American coins.
Other Notable Rare Bicentennial Quarters
While the $3 million Bicentennial quarter is the most famous, there are several other rare varieties that collectors should watch for. These include:
The 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter
These coins were minted for collectors and came with a mirrored, polished finish. The 1976-S proof quarters are highly sought after, especially those in PR70 (perfect proof) condition.
High-grade examples of these proof coins can be worth $300 or more depending on the state of preservation and demand.
The 1976-D Clad Proof Quarter
Although clad coins weren’t generally produced for collectors in the same way as silver proof coins, there are a limited number of 1976-D Bicentennial quarters that were made as part of special sets.
These coins, especially those with a near-perfect grade, can sell for upwards of $300, though they are not as valuable as some of the rarer error coins.
Off-Center and Misaligned Die Strikes
Off-center or misaligned die strikes are uncommon for Bicentennial quarters, but when they do occur, they can raise the coin’s value significantly.
A misaligned die causes part of the design to be imprinted at an odd angle, while off-center strikes result in portions of the coin’s design being missing.
Clipped Planchets
A clipped planchet occurs when a coin’s metal blank is improperly cut, leading to part of the coin being missing. These errors are highly collectible and are often valued at several hundred dollars, depending on the severity and clarity of the error.
Here’s a full information table summarizing the rare Bicentennial quarter and the notable high-value examples:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 1976 Bicentennial Quarter |
| Design | Reverse: Colonial drummer, “1776-1976”; Obverse: George Washington |
| Minting Year | 1976 |
| Commemorative Purpose | Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence |
| Common Composition | Copper-nickel clad |
| Silver Clad Composition | 40% silver (special proof sets and mint sets) |
| Key Varieties | 1. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) |
| 2. 1976-S Proof Silver Clad Quarter | |
| 3. 1976-D Clad Proof Quarter | |
| 4. Errors: Off-center strikes, misaligned dies, clipped planchets | |
| Key Identifying Features | 1. Doubling on “LIBERTY” and “1776-1976” (DDO variety) |
| 2. Silver composition (from special mint sets) | |
| 3. High-grade proof (PR70) for San Francisco Mint issues | |
| Mintmarks | “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), no mintmark (Philadelphia) |
| Rarest and Most Valuable Variety | 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO), sold for $2.9 million in 2008 |
| Estimated Value of Rare Coins | $2.9 million for 1976-D DDO in MS68 condition |
| Value Range for Other Rare Coins | 1. 1976-S Proof Silver: $300 to $1,500 (depending on grade) |
| 2. 1976-D Clad Proof Quarter: $300 – $500 | |
| 3. Errors (Off-center, misaligned dies, clipped planchets): $500 – $3,000+ | |
| Proof Coin Production | 1976-S Proof (San Francisco Mint) |
| Common Coin Production | Denver (D) and Philadelphia (no mintmark) mintage |
| Mintages | 1. 1976-D (Denver): ~800 million (circulating) |
| 2. 1976-S (San Francisco): 3.1 million (proof) | |
| 3. 1976-S Proof Silver: 11 million (special mint sets) | |
| Rare Coin Features | 1. Doubled die on “LIBERTY” and “1776-1976” |
| 2. Silver clad quarter varieties | |
| 3. Off-center strikes and other minting errors | |
| Factors Influencing Value | 1. Minting errors, such as doubled dies or off-center strikes |
| 2. Silver composition vs. regular clad quarters | |
| 3. Condition and grade (PR70 or MS68 being highly valuable) | |
| Grade and Certification Services | PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) |
| Condition Ratings (Grades) | 1. PR70 (perfect proof) |
| 2. MS68 (Mint State, near perfect) | |
| Price Trend (Recent Sales) | 1. $2.9 million for 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse in MS68 (2008) |
| 2. $300 – $1,500 for high-grade 1976-S Proof Silver Quarter | |
| 3. $500+ for 1976-D Clad Proof Quarters in MS65 to MS67 | |
| Where to Buy/Sell | Auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers), online marketplaces (eBay, CoinValue) |
| Key Collecting Advice | 1. Have coins professionally graded before selling or buying |
| 2. Look for minting errors and unique varieties | |
| 3. Verify authenticity through certification and reputable sources | |
| Fun Fact | The 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Bicentennial Quarter is considered one of the most valuable modern error coins in U.S. history, with only a few known in existence. |
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial quarter so special?
A1: The 1976 Bicentennial quarter commemorates the 200th anniversary of the United States. While the design is not particularly rare, certain minting errors, such as doubled die varieties, off-center strikes, and silver clad versions, make specific coins highly valuable.
Why are some 1976 Bicentennial quarters worth so much money?
A2: The value of rare Bicentennial quarters is driven by a combination of factors, including minting errors, limited production runs (such as silver versions), and the high demand among collectors.
The rarest errors, like the 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse quarter, can fetch millions due to their uniqueness and condition.
How can I identify a rare Bicentennial quarter?
A3: Key identifying features include doubling on the date or the word “LIBERTY” (for the Doubled Die Obverse variety), silver composition (for special sets), and various errors such as off-center strikes or clipped planchets.
High-quality proof coins from the San Francisco Mint are also valuable.
How much is a typical 1976 Bicentennial quarter worth?
A4: Most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are worth face value or slightly more, depending on their condition. However, rare varieties and minting errors can significantly increase their value, with some fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial quarter?
A5: Rare Bicentennial quarters can be sold through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay or CoinValue. For high-value coins, professional appraisal and grading by services like PCGS or NGC are recommended to verify authenticity and condition.
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