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.