The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is one of the most recognizable coins in circulation, celebrating America’s 200th anniversary. While most of these quarters are worth only face value, a few rare ones have become highly valuable.
Some have even reached nearly $1 million due to unique minting errors or historical significance. Let’s look into these valuable finds and what makes them special.
Table of Contents
Bicentennial
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was minted with a special dual-date “1776–1976” and features a colonial drummer on the reverse. While billions were struck, some rare silver variants have become extremely valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
A small number of Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly minted on 90% silver planchets meant for proof coins. These were intended for collector sets but ended up in circulation, making them highly sought-after.
A high-grade example of one of these silver Bicentennial quarters has been valued at nearly $1 million due to its rarity and historical significance.
What to Look For
- Check the edge – A silver quarter will not have a copper stripe.
- Weight – Silver quarters are slightly heavier than standard clad coins.
- Authentication – If you suspect you have one, get it graded by PCGS or NGC.
Washington
The Washington quarter debuted in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. While many from that year are collectible, the 1932-D (Denver Mint) and 1932-S (San Francisco Mint) versions are the rarest.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 436,800 quarters were minted in Denver in 1932, making the 1932-D Washington quarter one of the rarest in the series. High-grade examples can fetch over $100,000 at auction.
What to Look For
- Mint mark – Look for the “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition – Near-mint or uncirculated coins are the most valuable.
Liberty
The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Quarter is one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. quarters. It was minted in Carson City, Nevada—a small and short-lived mint known for striking coins from local silver mines.
Why It’s Valuable
With only 8,340 coins minted, this quarter is extremely rare. Few have survived in high grades, making them worth well over $100,000.
What to Look For
- CC mint mark – Check the reverse side beneath the eagle.
- Authentication – Due to its rarity, it is often counterfeited, so professional grading is essential.
Barber
The 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the scarcest and most valuable U.S. quarters. Designed by Charles E. Barber, this quarter was minted from 1892 to 1916, with the 1901-S being the rarest in the series.
Why It’s Valuable
Only 72,664 quarters were minted in San Francisco in 1901. Since Barber quarters were heavily circulated, finding a well-preserved one is incredibly rare. High-grade examples can sell for over $100,000.
What to Look For
- S mint mark – Located beneath the eagle on the reverse.
- Condition – Even worn 1901-S quarters are valuable, but uncirculated versions are exceptionally rare.
While most quarters in circulation are only worth 25 cents, rare finds like the silver Bicentennial quarter, 1932-D Washington quarter, 1870-CC Liberty Seated quarter, and 1901-S Barber quarter can be worth thousands—or even millions—due to their rarity and historical significance. If you think you have one, it’s worth getting it authenticated!
FAQs
How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the edge—if there’s no copper stripe, it may be silver.
What makes the 1932-D Washington quarter valuable?
Its low mintage of 436,800 makes it one of the rarest quarters.
Why is the 1870-CC quarter so rare?
Only 8,340 were minted, and few survived in high grades.
How much is a 1901-S Barber quarter worth?
High-grade versions can sell for over $100,000.
Should I get my rare quarter graded?
Yes, professional grading confirms authenticity and value.
