The Bicentennial Quarter minted between 1975 and 1976, stands as a testament to American history and culture. Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the United States, this coin has become a prized collectible among enthusiasts.
Certain rare varieties have fetched remarkable prices at auctions, with one extraordinary piece reaching a record-breaking $808,000.
This guide explores the Bicentennial Quarter’s history, unique design, minting errors, and the factors that contribute to its exceptional value.
What Makes the Bicentennial Quarter Special?
Distinctive Design Features
The Bicentennial Quarter was created to honor America’s Bicentennial celebration with a design that reflects its revolutionary spirit:
- Reverse Design: The reverse, designed by Jack L. Ahr, features a colonial drummer and 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies.
- Obverse Design: The obverse retains George Washington’s profile but includes the dual dates “1776–1976”, emphasizing the Bicentennial era.
The combination of artistic craftsmanship and historical significance elevates the Bicentennial Quarter beyond standard currency, making it a collector’s favorite.
Value of the Bicentennial Quarter
The value of Bicentennial Quarters varies widely depending on factors like condition, composition, and the presence of minting errors.
While most circulated examples hold little more than face value, rare specimens command premium prices.
Factors That Influence Value
- Condition: Coins graded MS67 or higher often fetch significantly higher prices than circulated or lower-grade examples.
- Composition: Quarters minted in 40% silver are more valuable than the common copper-nickel clad coins.
- Rarity: Proof coins, those with mint errors, or those lacking a mint mark are highly desirable.
Bicentennial Quarter Mint Errors
Minting errors are among the most sought-after features of the Bicentennial Quarter. These errors occur during the production process, creating unique and valuable variations.
Notable Mint Errors and Their Values
| Type of Error | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Double Die | The design appears doubled due to a misaligned die impression. | $500–$1,100 |
| Off-Center Strike | The design is misaligned on the coin’s surface. | $2,000–$5,500 |
| Strike-Through Error | A foreign object obstructs the die during minting, creating a unique imprint. | $10,000–$15,000 |
These mint errors significantly increase a coin’s value, making them a highlight for collectors.
The No-Mint-Mark Bicentennial Quarter
Bicentennial Quarters without a mint mark are another intriguing variety. Typically, these coins were minted in Philadelphia, as the facility historically did not use a mint mark.
Why It’s Important
- Coins without a mint mark are rare, particularly in higher grades.
- Collectors value the added rarity of these coins, which enhances their market appeal.
Estimated Values of Bicentennial Quarters
The value of a Bicentennial Quarter depends on its condition, composition, and any minting errors.
| Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Copper-Nickel Clad Coins | $25–$52 in high grades |
| Double Die Errors | $500–$1,100 |
| Off-Center Strike | $2,000–$5,500 |
| Strike-Through Errors | $10,000–$15,000 |
| Exceptional Examples (e.g., 1976-S) | Up to $808,000 |
Knowing these values helps collectors identify and prioritize valuable coins.
The Role of Mint Marks
Bicentennial Quarters feature different mint marks, indicating their production facilities:
- D (Denver): Coins with this mint mark are common but still sought after in pristine condition.
- S (San Francisco): Often proof coins, these are particularly desirable.
- No Mint Mark (Philadelphia): Rarer and more valuable in higher grades.
A complete Bicentennial collection often includes coins from all three facilities.
Building a Bicentennial Quarter Collection
Assembling a Bicentennial Quarter collection can be both rewarding and lucrative. Here’s how to start:
- Complete Sets: Include all Bicentennial coins (quarters, half-dollars, and dollars) from various mints.
- Focus on Mint Errors: Look for coins with unique errors like double dies or off-center strikes.
- High-Grade Coins: Prioritize coins graded MS67 or higher to maximize value.
Investing in high-quality coins and rare varieties can yield significant returns over time.
The $808,000 Bicentennial Quarter
The most famous example of the Bicentennial Quarter is the 1976-S Proof Quarter, graded PR70DCAM by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
This coin sold for an astounding $808,000 due to its impeccable condition, rarity, and historical importance.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Check for minting errors, silver composition, and condition. Coins in higher grades or with unique features tend to be more valuable.
Are all Bicentennial Quarters made of silver?
No, only some were minted in 40% silver. The majority are copper-nickel clad.
What does a missing mint mark mean?
A missing mint mark usually indicates the coin was minted in Philadelphia, adding to its rarity.
