5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth $94 Million Each Still in Circulation – Are You Holding One?
5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters: Have you ever glanced at your spare change and wondered if it could be worth a fortune? Recently, headlines have circulated claiming that five rare Bicentennial quarters could be worth $94 million each. While this sensational claim is largely exaggerated, certain rare Bicentennial quarters can indeed command impressive values.
5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Topic | 5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth $94 Million Each |
| Coin Production Year | 1976 |
| Mass Production | Over 1.6 billion quarters minted |
| Common Value | Face value ($0.25) |
| Rare Value | Up to $120,000+ |
| Top Variants | 1976-S Silver Proof, Double Die Obverse, Off-Center Strike, No Mint Mark Silver, “No S” Proof |
| Official Resource | United States Mint Official Website |
While the idea of finding a Bicentennial quarter worth $94 million is largely a myth, certain rare versions—such as Silver Proofs, Double Die Obverses, Off-Center Strikes, and “No S” Proofs—can fetch tens of thousands of dollars. If you believe you have a special coin, it is crucial to have it authenticated and graded by professionals. A little knowledge and careful inspection could turn your pocket change into a valuable collectible.
What Are Bicentennial Quarters?
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. These quarters feature a unique design with a Colonial drummer and a torch surrounded by thirteen stars on the reverse side, replacing the traditional eagle.
Over 1.6 billion Bicentennial quarters were produced, making them quite common. However, certain rare variations and minting errors are highly sought after by collectors and can be worth significantly more than face value.
Understanding the True Value of Bicentennial Quarters
Despite the viral rumors, no Bicentennial quarter has been sold for $94 million. However, select variants and error coins have achieved high auction prices, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars.
According to sources like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), these valuable coins are rare but real. Let’s explore the notable ones.
Rare Bicentennial Quarter Variants You Should Know
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
- Mint Location: San Francisco Mint
- Composition: 40% silver
- Special Features: Created for collectors, found in proof sets
- Record Sale: A PR70 Deep Cameo sold for $19,200 at auction (PCGS Record)
Why It’s Valuable: Silver proofs in flawless condition are highly prized. If your coin is unusually shiny and heavy, it may be a silver proof.
1976 Double Die Obverse (DDO) Quarter
- Error Type: Double striking leads to visible doubling in the inscriptions and date
- Record Sale: High-grade examples have reached up to $45,000
Identifying Tip: Look carefully at the inscriptions like “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY” for signs of doubling.
1976 Off-Center Strike Quarter
- Error Type: Struck significantly off-center, resulting in a misaligned design
- Record Sale: One example with a dramatic misalignment sold for $80,000
Collector Tip: Minor off-centers are common; major off-centers (40%-60%) are the real treasures.
1976 No Mint Mark Silver Quarter
- Error Type: Missing the expected “S” mintmark on a silver proof
- Estimated Value: Over $120,000
How to Check: Use a magnifier. A silver-colored Bicentennial quarter without a mintmark could be extremely rare.
“No S” Proof Bicentennial Quarter
- Error Type: Proof coins struck without the “S” mintmark
- Rarity: Fewer than 20 authenticated examples
- Record Sale: A PR68 grade coin sold for $13,950
Important Note: Proof coins should always have a mintmark. A missing mintmark on a proof coin is highly significant.
5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters: How to Check If You Have a Rare Bicentennial Quarter?
Step 1: Inspect the Coin Closely
Use a magnifying glass to identify doubling, missing mintmarks, off-center designs, or unusual coloring and weight.
Step 2: Compare Against Trusted Resources
Consult the PCGS Price Guide or NGC Coin Explorer to compare your coin.
Step 3: Submit for Professional Grading
If you suspect you have a valuable coin, send it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication and appraisal.
FAQs on 5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters
1. Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No. The vast majority of Bicentennial quarters are only worth their face value. Only rare variants and error coins carry significant value.
2. How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
A silver quarter weighs more and has a different luster compared to standard copper-nickel coins. Professional weighing or comparison with reference photos can help.
3. Can circulated Bicentennial quarters still be valuable?
Yes, but they must be rare error coins or in unusually high-grade condition to be worth more than face value.
4. Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial quarter?
Rare coins are best sold through auction houses like Heritage Auctions or to certified dealers listed by the American Numismatic Association (ANA).
5. Is it worth grading a Bicentennial quarter?
It is worth grading only if the coin is suspected to be a rare variant or is in mint state condition (MS67 or higher), where the market value exceeds the grading fees.
