The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is among the most iconic coins in U.S. history, created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Its reverse features a distinctive design, with the Liberty Bell and 13 stars representing the original colonies.
While most Bicentennial Quarters are worth only 25 cents, there are a few rare ones that are highly sought after by collectors. Some of these coins can be worth thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars due to unique minting errors and other exceptional characteristics. In this post, we’ll explore five such rare quarters, with one example valued at nearly $60,000.
Due to their rarity, these quarters are prized by both coin collectors and numismatists, making them highly desirable on the coin market.
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark)
Value: $60,000 (or more)
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: No Mint Mark
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
Why It’s Valuable: The Bicentennial Quarter was primarily minted without a mint mark in Philadelphia, while quarters from Denver were marked with a “D”. However, a small number of quarters were struck in Philadelphia and completely lacked a mint mark. This rare error makes these coins highly collectible, and a well-preserved example could be worth nearly $60,000 or more.
What to Look For: Check the reverse side of the coin for the absence of any mint mark (neither “P” nor “D”).
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
Value: $7,500 to $15,000
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Double Die Obverse
Why It’s Valuable: A double die obverse error occurs when a coin’s die strikes the planchet multiple times, resulting in a doubled design. For the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, this error is noticeable on the date and the inscriptions on the obverse. Collectors appreciate this error for its visual impact and rarity, with coins in top condition fetching between $7,500 and $15,000.
What to Look For: Look for a doubled design, especially around the date and the inscription “In God We Trust.”
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver-Clad Error)
Value: $6,000 to $10,000
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Silver-Clad Planchet
Why It’s Valuable: While most Bicentennial Quarters were made from a copper-nickel composition, a few were mistakenly struck on silver-clad planchets intended for proof sets. This error makes these coins much rarer and more valuable. Depending on the coin’s condition, they can be worth anywhere between $6,000 and $10,000.
What to Look For: A silver-colored appearance instead of the usual copper-nickel finish, along with proof-like mirror surfaces.
4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Rotated Die Error)
Value: $6,000 to $10,000
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Rotated Die Error
Why It’s Valuable: A rotated die error happens when the die used to strike the coin is misaligned, causing the design to appear rotated when viewed from the normal upright position. These coins have a twisted design, making them extremely rare and desirable. Depending on the degree of rotation and the coin’s condition, these errors can raise the coin’s value to $6,000 to $10,000.
What to Look For: A noticeable rotation in the design, where the reverse side is tilted compared to the obverse.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Clipped Planchet Error)
Value: $6,000 to $8,000
Key Features:
- Mint Year: 1976
- Error Type: Clipped Planchet
Why It’s Valuable: A clipped planchet error occurs when part of the metal planchet is missing during production, resulting in a coin with an irregular shape. A noticeable clip on the quarter’s edge can make it a rare and valuable collector’s item, often worth between $6,000 and $8,000, depending on its severity and condition.
What to Look For: Look for irregular edges where part of the coin’s planchet is missing.
Summary of the Most Valuable 1976 Bicentennial Quarters
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Error Type | Value Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark) | 1976 | Missing Mint Mark | $60,000 (or more) | No mint mark on reverse side |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse) | 1976 | Double Die Obverse | $7,500 to $15,000 | Doubled design, especially around the date |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver-Clad Error) | 1976 | Silver-Clad Planchet Error | $6,000 to $10,000 | Silver-colored appearance, proof-like finish |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Rotated Die Error) | 1976 | Rotated Die Error | $6,000 to $10,000 | Rotated design, twisted appearance |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Clipped Planchet) | 1976 | Clipped Planchet Error | $6,000 to $8,000 | Irregular edge, portion of planchet missing |
Why Are Some Bicentennial Quarters Worth So Much?
Bicentennial Quarters are valuable because of rare minting errors such as missing mint marks, double die strikes, rotated dies, silver-clad planchets, and clipped planchets. These defects make the coins stand out from regular quarters, and in excellent condition, they can fetch thousands of dollars on the collector’s market.
How Can I Tell if My 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is Valuable?
To determine if your Bicentennial Quarter holds value, look for signs of minting errors. These include missing mint marks, doubled designs, silver coloring, a rotated design, or irregular edges. The coin’s condition also plays a key role in its value, with coins graded MS-67 or higher being particularly valuable.
How Can I Sell My Rare Bicentennial Quarter?
You can sell your rare Bicentennial Quarter through auction houses, professional coin dealers, or online marketplaces. To ensure the authenticity and proper valuation of your coin, it’s advisable to have it graded by a reputable service such as PCGS or NGC before listing it for sale.