Bicentennial Quarter Value: Could You Have a $58 Million Coin in Your Pocket?

Bicentennial Quarter Value: The Bicentennial Quarter Value has become a hot topic among coin collectors and everyday people alike. These special quarters, minted to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, feature a unique design of a Colonial drummer and the dates “1776-1976.” While most of these coins are only worth face value, certain rare varieties can sell for thousands—or even millions—of dollars.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of Bicentennial quarters, the different types produced, and what makes some of them so valuable. From silver editions to double die errors and the elusive No-S Proof Quarter, we’ll break down what to look for if you want to strike gold with one of these iconic coins.

Overview of Bicentennial Quarter Value

Type of Bicentennial Quarter	Mint Mark	Location	Value Range
40% Silver Quarter	S	San Francisco	$5 – $100
Double Die Obverse	No Mark	Philadelphia	$40 – $300
Double Die Reverse	No Mark	Philadelphia	$30 – $125
No-S Proof Quarter	No Mark	San Francisco	$15,000 – $61,200
Off-Center Strike	Various	Various Mints	$20 – $1,000
Broadstruck Quarter (No Collar)	Various	Various Mints	$50 – $150
Wrong Planchet Error	Various	Various Mints	$300 – $2,500

The History of the Bicentennial Quarter

The U.S. Mint introduced the Bicentennial quarter to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Congress authorized the coin’s creation in 1973, and a nationwide design competition followed. Jack Ahr’s winning design of a Colonial drummer replaced the traditional eagle, and the dual date “1776-1976” was added to mark the occasion.

Production began in 1975 and continued through 1976, with billions of coins minted in Philadelphia and Denver for circulation. San Francisco produced collector versions in both standard and silver compositions. Today, these quarters remain a symbol of American history, with certain rare varieties worth far more than their 25-cent face value.

40% Silver Bicentennial Quarter

One of the most well-known collectible varieties is the 40% silver Bicentennial quarter, minted in San Francisco. Unlike the standard copper-nickel coins, these silver quarters were made specifically for collectors and sold in mint and proof sets.

Each coin contains 0.0739 ounces of silver, giving it intrinsic value based on the price of silver. However, collector demand often pushes their value higher. Uncirculated silver quarters typically sell for $5 to $15, while proof versions can range from $10 to $25. Coins graded MS-67 or higher by professional grading services can fetch $50 to $100 due to their exceptional quality and minimal imperfections.

Double Die Errors: Small Mistakes, Big Value

Double die errors occur when the design on the coin appears slightly doubled due to a misalignment during the minting process. Bicentennial quarters with this error are highly sought after, particularly those from the Philadelphia Mint.

1. Double Die Obverse: The most valuable double die variety is found on the front of the coin, where George Washington’s profile, hair, and the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear doubled. Circulated examples typically sell for $40 to $100, while uncirculated coins can command $150 to $300 depending on the strength of the doubling and the coin’s condition.
2. Double Die Reverse: A less common but still valuable error is found on the back of the coin, where the drummer’s hands and drumsticks show signs of doubling. Although more subtle, this variety can still fetch $30 to $125 depending on its condition.

Collectors should examine their Bicentennial quarters carefully, using a magnifying glass to spot these small but valuable details.

The No-S Proof Quarter: The Rarest of Them All

Among all Bicentennial quarters, the No-S Proof Quarter is the rarest and most valuable. Typically, proof quarters minted in San Francisco bear an “S” mintmark below Washington’s portrait. However, in 1976, a small number of proof quarters were struck without this mintmark due to an error at the mint.

With fewer than 20 verified examples in existence, these quarters are highly sought after by collectors. Depending on their condition and certification, No-S Proof quarters typically sell for $15,000 to $35,000. In 2019, a PR-68 graded No-S Proof quarter set a record by selling for $61,200 at a Heritage Auctions event.

Visually Striking Off-Center Strikes

Off-center strikes happen when a coin blank is not properly aligned during minting, causing part of the design to be missing. Bicentennial quarters with this error can be highly valuable, depending on how far off-center the strike is and whether the date is still visible.

• 5-10% Off-Center: Typically sells for $20 to $50.
• 50% or More Off-Center (With Visible Date): Can command $150 to $300.
• 70-90% Off-Center (With Visible Date): The rarest and most dramatic examples can sell for $500 to $1,000.

Collectors often seek these visually striking errors because they stand out from regular coins, making them unique additions to any collection.

Broadstruck Without Collar: Unusual Shape, Higher Value

Broadstruck errors occur when the metal collar that shapes the coin’s edge is missing or malfunctioning during the minting process. Without the collar, the coin spreads beyond its normal diameter, resulting in a broader, thinner shape with a smooth edge.

Bicentennial quarters with this error usually measure 27-29mm in diameter (compared to the standard 24.3mm) and often have slightly distorted design elements. Depending on their condition and the extent of the broadstriking, these coins typically sell for $50 to $150.

Wrong Planchet Errors: Coins with a Twist

Occasionally, Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly struck on planchets intended for other denominations, creating unique errors with distinct appearances and weights. These wrong planchet errors are rare and highly valuable, especially when authenticated by professional grading services.

• Dime Planchet: Weighing about 2.27 grams, these smaller coins often sell for $300 to $600.
• Penny Planchet: Copper-colored and weighing approximately 3.11 grams, these errors can fetch $500 to $1,000.
• Nickel Planchet: The rarest of the three, these silver-colored coins weigh about 5 grams and can sell for $1,200 to $2,500.

How to Identify a Valuable Bicentennial Quarter

To determine whether your Bicentennial quarter is valuable, look for the following features:

• Mintmark: Check for an “S” mintmark below Washington’s portrait for silver quarters, or look for the absence of a mintmark on proofs.
• Double Die Errors: Use a magnifying glass to inspect Washington’s hair, ear, and the lettering on the front of the coin.
• Off-Center Strikes: Look for misaligned designs, especially if the date is still visible.
• Broadstruck Errors: Notice any coins that appear wider or thinner than normal.
• Wrong Planchet Errors: Compare the coin’s weight and color to standard quarters (5.67 grams, cupro-nickel).

FAQs

Final Thought

The Bicentennial Quarter Value continues to capture the attention of collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. With rare varieties worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars, it’s worth taking a closer look at your spare change. If you’ve found a Bicentennial quarter, check for key features like silver composition, double die errors, and off-center strikes. Who knows—you might just have a hidden treasure in your pocket!

Share your coin discoveries in the comments, and be sure to explore more articles about rare coins and collectibles!