The Bicentennial quarter, minted from 1975 to 1976, is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. Celebrating 200 years of American independence, this coin features a unique dual date, “1776–1976,” and a stunning design of a Colonial drummer by Jack L. Ahr on the reverse. While millions were produced for circulation and collectors, certain rare variations and errors have made some Bicentennial quarters highly valuable. Here are eight that could be worth a fortune!
Table of Contents
- 1 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Proof Quarter PF70 Ultra Cameo
- 2 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter MS68 or Higher
- 3 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse Error
- 4 1976-S Silver Business Strike Bicentennial Quarter MS69
- 5 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike
- 6 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Wrong Planchet
- 7 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Clipped Planchet
- 8 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Silver Planchet
- 9 FAQs
1976-S Silver Bicentennial Proof Quarter PF70 Ultra Cameo
Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint were specially made for collectors, containing 40% silver. With highly polished dies and planchets, they exhibit sharp details and a mirror-like background.
- Grade: PF70 Ultra Cameo, meaning flawless.
- Value: $7,000–$10,000 or more.
- Appeal: Perfect finish and unmatched quality make this coin a standout in any collection.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter MS68 or Higher
Denver Mint produced millions of Bicentennial quarters for daily use, but finding one in pristine condition (MS68 or above) is incredibly rare.
- Features: Exceptional shine, no wear, and perfect strike.
- Value: $6,000–$8,000; potentially more for an MS69.
- Collector Interest: High-grade circulated coins are increasingly sought after by collectors.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse Error
A double die error occurs when design elements, such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST,” appear doubled due to a minting mishap.
- Rarity: Doubling can range from subtle to highly visible.
- Value: $2,000–$10,000 depending on clarity.
- Collector Appeal: Unique errors like this are prized in minting history.
1976-S Silver Business Strike Bicentennial Quarter MS69
Silver Bicentennial quarters were also released as business strikes, intended for circulation. However, finding one in near-perfect MS69 grade is a rare feat.
- Composition: 40% silver.
- Value: At least $7,500.
- Desirability: Combines silver content with exceptional condition, making it a highly coveted piece.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike
Off-center strikes occur when a coin blank is improperly positioned during minting, resulting in a partial design.
- Details: The more off-center, the more valuable.
- Value: $1,000–$5,000 depending on the extent of the error.
- Rarity: These visually striking coins are highly collectible among error enthusiasts.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Wrong Planchet
In this rare error, a Bicentennial quarter is minted on a blank intended for another denomination or foreign coin, leading to differences in weight and composition.
- Value: $5,000–$15,000 based on the planchet type.
- Collector Appeal: Such mismatches are rare, making these coins extraordinary finds.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Clipped Planchet
A clipped planchet error happens when a portion of the blank metal disc is missing before striking, resulting in a crescent-shaped “clip.”
- Value: $500–$3,000 depending on size and clarity.
- Uniqueness: Clipped quarters are fascinating pieces of minting history.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on a Silver Planchet
Among the rarest errors is a Bicentennial quarter mistakenly struck on a silver planchet intended for another coin series.
- Rarity: Extremely rare.
- Value: $10,000–$20,000.
- Collector Dream: Combines the allure of silver with a striking error, making it a high-value treasure.
The Bicentennial quarter represents a slice of American history, but these rare versions offer far more than sentimental value. Whether it’s a mint error or a pristine proof, these coins could help you finance your dream Harley-Davidson—or simply elevate your collection to legendary status.
FAQs
What makes a Bicentennial quarter valuable?
Errors, rare grades, and silver content increase value.
How do I identify a double die error?
Look for doubled text, such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
What is a clipped planchet error?
A coin with a crescent-shaped clip due to missing metal.
Why is an MS69 grade significant?
It indicates near-perfect condition, boosting a coin’s value.
Can circulated Bicentennial quarters be valuable?
Yes, if they have errors or are in exceptionally high grades.