1976 Bicentennial Quarters: How Some Can Sell for Over $19,000

By John

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Bicentennial quarters were created in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. These quarters have a special reverse design featuring a colonial drummer and a torch surrounded by 13 stars.

The obverse shows George Washington’s portrait, along with the date “1776–1976.” These coins were minted in large quantities, but certain varieties and errors can make some of them very valuable.

Factors That Make a Bicentennial Quarter Valuable

Several factors influence the value of these quarters:

1. Mint Mark and Composition

The mint mark tells you where the coin was made. A quarter with an “S” mint mark means it was made in San Francisco. Some San Francisco-minted quarters were made of 40% silver, which is rarer and worth more than regular copper-nickel coins.

2. Condition (Grade)

Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers meaning better condition. A coin in excellent condition is worth much more than one that is worn or damaged.

3. Minting Errors and Varieties

Coins with minting mistakes, like double strikes or off-center strikes, are more valuable because they are rare. These errors can make a coin worth thousands of dollars.

High-Value Bicentennial Quarters

While most Bicentennial quarters are worth just 25 cents, a few rare varieties have sold for huge amounts at auctions:

  • 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (MS69): In 2019, this coin sold for $19,200.
  • Error Coins (e.g., struck on a dime planchet): Some error coins have sold for thousands of dollars due to their rarity.

How to Identify a Valuable Bicentennial Quarter

1. Check the Mint Mark

Look for an “S” mint mark. This indicates it was made at the San Francisco Mint, where silver coins were produced.

2. Examine the Condition

A well-preserved coin with clear details and no damage is worth more. If the coin looks shiny and new, it might be worth more than face value.

3. Look for Minting Errors

Errors like double strikes, off-center images, or unusual features are signs that the coin may be valuable.

4. Check the Composition

Silver coins look different from regular copper-nickel ones. Silver has a shiny, lighter appearance and a distinct sound when dropped.

Bicentennial Quarter Varieties and Their Approximate Values

Variety Mint Mark Composition Approximate Value (USD)
Standard Circulation None/”D” Copper-Nickel Clad $0.25
Proof Clad “S” Copper-Nickel Clad $2–$5
Silver Proof “S” 40% Silver $5–$10
Silver Uncirculated “S” 40% Silver $5–$10
High-Grade Silver (MS69) “S” 40% Silver Up to $19,200
Error Coins (e.g., struck on dime planchet) Varies Varies Thousands

 

Bicentennial quarters are a common find in your pocket change, but some are worth much more than their face value.

By checking for mint marks, examining the coin’s condition, and looking for errors, you could find a rare and valuable quarter hidden in your collection.

Always keep an eye out for those special coins—they could be worth thousands of dollars.

1. What makes a Bicentennial quarter valuable?

The value of a Bicentennial quarter depends on factors like the mint mark, condition, and whether it has any minting errors. Quarters from the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”) and those made of silver are more valuable. Coins in excellent condition or with rare errors can also fetch higher prices.

2. How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is made of silver?

Silver Bicentennial quarters were struck at the San Francisco Mint and have a 40% silver composition. They can be identified by their appearance, which is shinier and brighter than regular copper-nickel quarters. You can also check the edge of the coin, as silver has a different texture and sound when tapped.

3. What is a minting error, and why does it make a coin more valuable?

A minting error happens when a coin is struck incorrectly. This could include double strikes (where the design is stamped twice), off-center strikes, or being struck on the wrong type of metal planchet (e.g., a quarter struck on a dime’s metal). These errors are rare, which makes such coins highly collectible and valuable.

4. How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is worth more than 25 cents?

To determine if your Bicentennial quarter is worth more, you need to check its mint mark (especially if it’s an “S” for San Francisco), its condition (look for minimal wear and sharp details), and whether it has any minting errors. Coins in excellent condition or with rare mistakes can be worth much more than face value.

5. Can I sell my valuable Bicentennial quarter?

Yes, you can sell your valuable Bicentennial quarter through various platforms like coin auctions, online marketplaces, or specialized coin dealers. Be sure to get an accurate valuation from experts, especially if the coin is in excellent condition or has a rare minting error.


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