The US minted the Bicentennial Quarter in 1976 to mark its 200th anniversary of independence. Because it is literally a one-of-a-kind coin commemorating the momentous status, it has since become a favorite collector’s coin. Most of those quarters have just the face value, but some scarce editions have gained thousands of dollars and have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. Let’s take a look at the most valuable Bicentennial Quarters and why some of these coins are worth more than others.
$201K Bicentennial Quarter
The most talked about Bicentennial Quarter sold for a sum of around $201,000. This is one special quarter beyond the usual pocket change. Being a piece of history, this very same quarter was struck on 40% silver rather than copper-nickel clad like so many other US coins. Its significant worth was along that cause, from the mint condition and relevant historical issue. The collectors not only value it as a rare coin but for the story it tells about the United States’ bicentennial.
Double Die Quarter
Another very valuable Bicentennial Quarter is the Double Die Obverse, priced over $25,000. The minting error in this type occurs when the coin is double stamped slightly off centre, which results in a doubling effect on the date and motto. The appearance of the coin is something that catches many collectors’ eyes. Perhaps one of the most famous coins from the Bicentennial period was the result of some mistake in minting and sells for one of the highest prices because it is so rare and has that interesting mistake.
Off-Centre Quarter
Plain Bicentennial Quarters can be worth more than $25,000 if they are off-centre. The reason is that the error in the coin blank’s placement in the press causes part of the design to be blank or of varying quality. The worse the centring error, the higher the value, since collections are judged partly by the rarity of any one coin and the lower the quality of the error, the greater its estimated value when sold at auction.
Silver Error Quarter
Some Bicentennial Quarters were accidentally minted on 40 percent silver planchets that were intended for special collector sets but had ended up in circulation. These are highly rare coins referred to as Silver Composition Error Quarters and can carry values of over $25,000, depending upon their condition. Given the rarity and makeup of these errors, they are an essential for any collector looking for such an outstanding error issued by the mint.
Full Drum Lines Quarter
Another one of the less common coins is the Full Drum Lines Quarter, which often sells above $25,000. The detailing on the reverse side of this quarter was remarkable with a completely defined drum. This level of detail means that the coin was minted very early in the mintage process when the die had hardly been used, and it is therefore much scarcer. Later coins don’t have this fine detail as the die wears, making a Full Drum Lines Quarter in good condition an exciting find for collectors.
Overstruck Quarter
Coins overstruck as Quarters, priced over $25,000, refer to coins that have been stamped over coins or denominations formerly minted. Overstruck errors are extremely rare, and because of their uniqueness, one sees an extraordinary view of the manner in which coins were minted. Remainder prints of the former coinage design remain: a real life photo of two coins in one quarter. Due to their rarity and novel appeal, collectors highly value them.
Proof Error Quarter
Proof coins have elaborate and reflective finishes, which have a target collector; even these coins are not immune to errors. Proof quarters with smeared engravings or wrong compositions of the used metal have garnered much value. Proof Error Quarters range well above $25,000 due to their rarity and highly sought demand among collectors who seek to find flawless proof coins.
| Coin Type | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| $201K Bicentennial Quarter | 40% Silver, Mint State | $201,000 |
| Double Die Obverse Quarter | Doubling of date/motto | $25,000+ |
| Off-Center Strike Quarter | Misaligned design | $25,000+ |
| Silver Composition Error | Struck on silver planchets | $25,000+ |
| Full Drum Lines Quarter | Sharp drum detail on reverse | $25,000+ |
| Overstruck Quarter | Overstruck on previously minted coin | $25,000+ |
| Proof Error Quarter | Proof coin with smudged design/error | $25,000+ |
Most Bicentennial Quarters are worthless for any more than their face value, but a few exceptions have turned into precious gems. Collectors have paid big money at auction because of minting faults, the silver content, or just being a real nice piece. You might be holding a little piece of American history in your hand if you find one of these gems.
FAQs
How much is the valuable quarter?
Valued at over $201K USD.
Which other quarters are valuable?
Six others exceed $25K USD.
Can I appraise my coins?
Yes, through professional appraisers or services.