One of the more valuable US quarters that may not immediately come to mind is the 1976 Bicentennial quarter. However, there are some incredibly rare variants of this commemorative coin that are worth up to $150,000, which is significantly more than its face value!
These particular Bicentennial quarters are extremely valuable because of their historical significance, distinctive features, and minting faults. Let’s examine the top 4 Bicentennial quarters that could be valuable, so keep an eye out for them.
4 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth $150,000
1. Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter
The Double Die Obverse form of the Bicentennial quarter is considered one of the most highly valued varieties among numismatists.
The date and the motto “In God We Trust” are inscriptions that exhibit noticeable doubling as a result of a minting error, where the design is struck twice. This doubling error significantly elevates the coin’s value and rarity to an exponential degree.
Estimated Value: Over $150,000 in mint condition
2. Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter
The Off-Center Strike Bicentennial quarter is another highly sought-after item. This happens when the quarter strikes it off-center, leaving a portion of the pattern unfinished. The coin’s worth is directly impacted by the degree of off-center striking; the more off-center, the higher the value.
Estimated Value: Depending on the degree of the misalignment, these quarters may cost up to $200,000.
3. Overstruck Bicentennial Quarter
A unique minting blunder known as the “Overstruck Quarter” occurs when a Bicentennial quarter is struck over another coin, like a dime. This makes a coin that combines both designs. These coins are expensive and very hard to find.
Estimated Value: Should the overstruck designs be easily observable, these quarters may be valued at more than $250,000.
4. No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter
Among the rarest in the series is the No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter. Proof quarters issued in San Francisco typically have the “S” mint mark. However, some were made without this mark because of a minting error. The lack of the “S” mint mark significantly increases the coin’s value.
Estimated Value: The value of these uncommon proof quarters is more than $200,000.
| Quarter Type | Minting Error/Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Double Die Obverse | Doubling of date and text | Over $150,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | Design struck off-center | Up to $200,000 |
| Overstruck Bicentennial Quarter | Struck over another coin | Over $250,000 |
| No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter | Missing San Francisco mint mark | Over $200,000 |
Elements That Raise the Value of a Bicentennial Quarter
These Bicentennial quarters are extremely expensive due to minting faults, but there are other reasons as well that drive up the cost of these coins:
- Condition: The most valuable coins are those that are proof or uncirculated. Unworn, immaculate copies are always more valuable.
- Mint Marks: The coin’s worth is also influenced by the place of minte. Coins that lack the mint mark or have the “S” mint mark (designating San Francisco) are extremely valuable.
- Error Type: A coin’s value is greatly influenced by the kind and degree of minting errors, such as doubling, overstrikes, or off-center striking. More spectacular mistakes are sold for more money.
The Bicentennial Quarter is a collectible object with an intriguing past that is more than simply a piece of money. The rarer coins, particularly those with minting faults, could be worth hundreds dollars, even though the majority may only be worth their face value.
Examining your change more closely is worthwhile whether you’re an experienced coin collector or simply interested in the coins in your pocket. Perhaps you will find a buried treasure.
Give a Bicentennial quarter another look the next time you see one because you might be holding a coin valued at $150,000 or more!