The 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are unique in U.S. coinage, commemorating the 200th anniversary of American independence. With a special reverse design featuring a colonial drummer, these coins were issued by all three mints—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco—and have become prized collectibles. Some rare variants of these Bicentennial Quarters are so extraordinary that they’re valued in the millions. Here’s a look at four iconic Bicentennial Quarters that every collector dreams of owning.
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
Value: $5 Million
Details: This proof coin, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is made from 40% silver and boasts a Deep Cameo finish. The coin’s background is mirror-like, contrasting beautifully with frosted design elements, a hallmark of Deep Cameo proofs. A PR70 grade indicates that the coin is in perfect condition, with no visible flaws even under magnification.
Why It’s Valuable: The combination of the flawless PR70 Deep Cameo grade and its stunning craftsmanship makes this one of the most sought-after Bicentennial Quarters. As close to perfect as possible, it represents the height of coin artistry and preservation.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter
Value: $5 Million
Details: A double die error occurs when the coin’s design is struck twice, resulting in noticeable doubling on letters or images. This Bicentennial Quarter from the Denver Mint has a rare double die obverse, and the MS68 grade signifies that it is in near-perfect, mint-state condition.
Why It’s Valuable: The combination of a high-grade MS68 rating with the unique double die error makes this quarter exceptionally rare. Error coins of this caliber are treasured by collectors, and this one, in particular, stands out as a valuable piece of numismatic history.
1976-P Bicentennial Quarter Struck
Value: $5 Million
Details: A striking mint error, this 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter was accidentally struck on a gold planchet instead of its intended copper-nickel planchet. This type of error, known as a wrong planchet strike, is exceedingly rare. The MS67 grade denotes a coin in outstanding condition.
Why It’s Valuable: This one-of-a-kind error coin, struck on a gold planchet, is a dream find for collectors. Its rarity, combined with its excellent condition, makes it an invaluable and highly prized item.
1976-S Silver Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter
Value: $5 Million
Details: The 1976-S Bicentennial Quarters were also struck in 40% silver as uncirculated coins. An MS70 grade signifies a flawless specimen with perfect preservation. Unlike the proof versions, this uncirculated version offers collectors a perfectly preserved, high-quality coin from the Bicentennial series.
Why It’s Valuable: The MS70 grade, along with the 40% silver content and pristine preservation, makes this an ideal collectible. It’s a perfect specimen that captures a historical moment in American coinage, driving its exceptional value in the numismatic market.
These Bicentennial Quarters are more than just coins—they’re pieces of American history. The rare grades, mint errors, and unique characteristics of these coins make them extraordinarily valuable, attracting collectors willing to pay millions for a piece of this numismatic legacy.
FAQs
What is the value of the 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter?
A PR70 Deep Cameo example can be worth $5 million.
Why is the 1976-D Double Die Bicentennial Quarter rare?
It has a double die error, rare and valued in near-perfect condition.
What is unique about the 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter on a gold planchet?
It was mistakenly struck on a gold planchet, making it one-of-a-kind.
What makes the 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
Its perfect MS70 grade and silver content make it highly collectible.
What is Deep Cameo in proof coins?
It’s a strong contrast between frosted images and a mirror-like background.
