The Bicentennial Quarter, issued in 1976, celebrates 200 years of American independence. This unique coin stands out from regular quarters with its dual date “1776–1976” and an eye-catching design of a colonial drummer on the reverse. Designed by Jack L. Ahr, it replaced the traditional eagle motif, making it a standout in U.S. coinage history.
While billions of Bicentennial Quarters were produced, the vast majority are worth only face value. However, certain rare variants—due to mint errors, limited production, or precious metal content—can be worth a significant amount of money.
Some of these coins are highly sought after by collectors and have been known to fetch thousands, even tens of thousands, at auction. In this post, we’ll explore the 10 most valuable Bicentennial Quarters, what makes them special, and how you might just stumble across one in your spare change.
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter – Up to $15,000
This special edition proof quarter was minted in San Francisco and struck in 40% silver, giving it a distinct appearance and weight. Unlike standard quarters, these were made for collectors and never released into general circulation. If kept in pristine condition—graded PR69 or PR70—they can be extremely valuable.
Deep Cameo examples with sharp contrast between mirrored fields and frosted devices are especially prized. Because many of these coins have been mishandled or removed from their original packaging, finding one in flawless condition can fetch a price of up to $15,000.
2. 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Quarter – Valued at $6,000+
Also minted in San Francisco, this version contains 40% silver but features a satin, uncirculated finish. These quarters were sold as part of special Mint Sets in 1975 and 1976. When preserved well, especially in grades MS67 and above, they can command thousands of dollars from collectors. These coins are harder to come by because they were often mishandled or circulated despite their collector-only intent.
3. 1976 Double Die Obverse Quarter – Up to $10,000
The Double Die Obverse (DDO) variety is one of the most valuable types of mint errors. This occurs when the coin’s die shifts slightly between strikes, causing the letters and numbers on the front of the coin to appear doubled. On the Bicentennial Quarter, this doubling can be seen in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Coins with bold doubling and high mint state grades have been auctioned for $10,000 or more.
4. 1976 Off-Center Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $5,000
Off-center errors happen when the blank planchet isn’t properly aligned in the press. Depending on the severity of the shift—especially if it’s 50% or more and still shows the date—these coins can be worth thousands. Combine the appeal of the Bicentennial design with a significant error, and collectors will pay top dollar, particularly for coins in mint condition.
5. 1976-S Clad Proof Quarter with Deep Cameo – Worth $4,000+
While most of the valuable coins are silver, even the standard clad proof versions can be worth money if they display the highly desirable Deep Cameo finish. This means the raised parts of the design are frosted while the background is mirror-like. Graded PR70 Deep Cameo by PCGS or NGC, these coins have sold for upwards of $4,000.
6. 1976-S Silver Quarter Graded MS69 – Up to $3,500
Finding a silver Bicentennial Quarter in MS69 grade is extremely rare. Most coins from this time did not survive in such pristine condition. Those that do, especially with original luster and strike, have sold for thousands of dollars. The high grade combined with silver content and historical significance drives their value sky-high.
7. 1976 Quarter with Multiple Strikes – Worth $3,000
A multiple-strike error occurs when a coin is struck more than once without being properly ejected from the minting press. These dramatic and eye-catching errors are highly valuable. Bicentennial Quarters with this error can fetch up to $3,000, especially if the multiple impressions are clear and the coin is in excellent condition.
8. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter with No “S” Mint Mark – Worth $2,500+
Although extremely rare and not officially recognized as a production variety, reports of a missing mint mark on some proof Bicentennial Quarters have intrigued collectors. These coins, if authenticated, could be worth upwards of $2,500 due to their unique error and rarity. Always have such coins examined by professionals.
9. 1976 Die Clash Error Bicentennial Quarter – Worth $1,500
A die clash occurs when the coin dies strike each other without a planchet in between, transferring part of each design onto the opposite die. The result is a coin with ghostly or misplaced features from the other side. Bicentennial Quarters with clear die clash errors are rare and collectible, often fetching over $1,500 at auction.
10. High-Grade Circulated 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $1,000
While most circulated Bicentennial Quarters are worth face value, coins that have been extremely well-preserved, even after light circulation, can still command high prices. A coin graded MS66 or higher can be worth up to $1,000. Even though these coins are technically not errors or silver, their condition alone makes them highly desirable.
FAQs
1. Are Bicentennial Quarters made of silver?
Only the ones minted in San Francisco with an “S” mint mark and labeled as silver or part of special collector sets are 40% silver. Most others are standard copper-nickel.
2. What does “Deep Cameo” mean?
Deep Cameo refers to proof coins with strong contrast between frosted design elements and mirror-like backgrounds. This finish increases a coin’s visual appeal and value.
3. How can I find out if my quarter is valuable?
Check the mint mark, weight, design details, and date. Then compare it to known valuable varieties or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
4. Can Bicentennial Quarters still be found in circulation?
Yes, they are still legal tender and occasionally show up in pocket change, but valuable versions are much rarer and usually found in collections.
Conclusion
The Bicentennial Quarter is more than just a nostalgic token of America’s 200th birthday—it could be your ticket to a small fortune. While most are common, the rare variants and mint errors can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars. Whether it’s a silver proof, an off-center strike, or a perfectly preserved high-grade example, the right quarter can put serious cash in your pocket. So next time you come across a 1776–1976 quarter, don’t toss it aside. Take a closer look—it just might be worth more than you ever imagined.