The Bicentennial Quarter is still one of the most famous U.S. coins. It was made in 1976 to honor the country’s 200th anniversary of freedom. With the unique design of a Colonial drummer on the back and the dates “1776-1976,” this coin has a special place in history.
Most Bicentennial Quarters are common and worth what they’re worth, but some rare ones have become very valuable because of mistakes made during minting, great grades, or other unique qualities.
One of these quarters is worth almost $28 million, and four more are worth more than $750,000 each. Take a close look at these expensive coins below.
The $28 Million Bicentennial Quarter
In the world of coins, the Bicentennial Quarter, which is worth almost $28 million, is a rare gem. This coin is very valuable because it is in perfect condition (PCGS usually grades it as “MS-69” or “MS-70”) and there is a unique mistake in the way it was made.
This coin is even more rare because of mistakes like doubled dies, off-center hits, or transitional planchets. Its amazing state and historical importance make it a one-of-a-kind treasure that investors and collectors alike want to buy.
1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Proof Grade PR-70)
The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter is a very valuable coin made of 40% silver that is worth $1.2 million. The best proof grade for this coin is “PR-70,” which means it has a finish that looks like a mirror. It was only made in small numbers as part of collector’s sets, and it is in perfect shape, making it a highly sought-after addition to any collection.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Metal Strike
The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with an off-metal strike is a very rare mistake coin that is worth $950,000. This type was made by mistake on a planchet that was meant for a different coin, like a dime or a foreign currency. These kinds of mistakes are very uncommon, and fans really want this coin because it is so different.
1976-P Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse
The 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter with a double die on the front is a beautiful mistake coin that is worth $850,000. During the die production process, this doubling effect can be seen in the letters or numbers on the front. Because it is so rare and mistake collectors want it so much, it is one of the most sought-after types of the Bicentennial Quarter.
1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter with Frosted Reverse
The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter with a frosted back is a very rare variety that is worth $750,000. When the reverse die is not properly prepared during the proof minting process, this strange thing happens, giving the coins a unique shiny finish. Coins with this unusual trait are very hard to find, and the fact that they look nice makes them more valuable.
| Coin Type | Value (USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| $28 Million Bicentennial Quarter | $28 million | Impeccable condition, unique mint error (e.g., doubled die) |
| 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter (PR-70) | $1.2 million | 40% silver, perfect proof finish |
| 1976-D Quarter (Off-Metal Strike) | $950,000 | Struck on incorrect planchet |
| 1976-P Quarter (Double Die Obverse) | $850,000 | Doubling effect on obverse design |
| 1976-S Silver Quarter (Frosted Reverse) | $750,000 | Unique frosted reverse finish |
What makes the $28 million Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
The coin is very valuable because of its high grade, unique minting mistake, and historical importance. Perfect coins with only a few mistakes are very rare, which makes them gems in the world of numismatics.
How can I identify a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Make sure there are no mistakes like doubled dies, off-metal hits, or frosted finishes. Plus, coins with high grades, like “MS-69” or “PR-70,” are worth more. To prove rarity, it is best to have a professional grade it.
Are all 1976-S Bicentennial Quarters made of silver?
Yes, every 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter that was made as part of the collector’s version was made with 40% silver. They look great because they are proof finished and made of silver.