Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $40K: 3 More Worth Over $1,000:- The Bicentennial Quarter, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence in 1976, has become a collector’s item with certain rare examples fetching substantial amounts of money.
Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $40K: 3 More Worth Over $1,000
While most of these quarters are common and only worth face value, some have reached impressive valuations due to unique mint errors, high-grade conditions, or special attributes.
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Among them, one particular Bicentennial Quarter has been known to sell for nearly $40,000, while three others have crossed the $1,000 threshold.
This article explores these valuable coins, the factors that make them worth so much, and answers to common questions about Bicentennial Quarters.
The Bicentennial Quarter: A Brief History
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was part of a series of commemorative coins released to celebrate America’s bicentennial. Alongside the quarter, the U.S. Mint also issued special half dollars and dollar coins.
These coins are unique in that they feature a dual date, “1776–1976,” and a special reverse design. The reverse of the quarter, created by artist Jack L.
Ahr, features a colonial drummer with a torch and 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies. The obverse retains the traditional portrait of George Washington.
The coins were minted at three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D” mint mark), and San Francisco (“S” mint mark).
The San Francisco Mint produced both proof and uncirculated silver versions, which are more valuable than the standard copper-nickel coins. With over 1.6 billion quarters minted, they are generally not rare, but certain factors can elevate their value significantly.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $40,000
One of the most valuable Bicentennial Quarters ever sold is an extraordinary example that fetched nearly $40,000 at auction. This high valuation was due to a combination of factors, primarily its condition and rarity.
- Grade and Condition: The most important factor that contributed to the coin’s high price was its grade. It was graded MS68 (Mint State 68) by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
- Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 representing a perfect coin with no visible flaws. An MS68 grade is extremely rare for Bicentennial Quarters, as most have minor imperfections from handling and circulation.
- Silver Composition: This particular quarter was one of the 40% silver versions minted at San Francisco. Silver coins are inherently more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts.
- The pristine condition, combined with the precious metal content, made this coin exceptionally desirable.
- Market Demand: High-grade examples of Bicentennial Quarters, especially those with silver content, are in demand among serious collectors. The competition to own a near-perfect specimen drove the price to nearly $40,000.
Three More Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $1,000
While the nearly $40,000 Bicentennial Quarter is a standout, there are other examples that have sold for over $1,000. Here are three notable ones:
- 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter (PR70 Deep Cameo)
- Value: Up to $3,000
- Details: Proof coins are struck with a special process that gives them a mirror-like finish and sharp, frosted details. A 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter graded PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) is considered flawless, with no imperfections visible even under magnification.
- The “Deep Cameo” designation indicates a strong contrast between the frosted design and the reflective background. These coins are highly sought after, and the perfect PR70 grade makes them extremely valuable.
- 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Mint Error (MS65)
- Value: Around $1,500
- Details: Mint errors are a major factor that can increase a coin’s value. A 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with an error, such as an off-center strike, double die, or die clash, can fetch over $1,000.
- For example, a double die obverse (DDO) error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is imprinted twice, resulting in a doubled appearance of letters or design elements. An MS65 grade ensures that the coin is in excellent condition, despite the error.
- 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter in Mint State (MS67)
- Value: Approximately $1,100
- Details: Even without mint errors, a regular 1976-P Bicentennial Quarter can be worth over $1,000 if it is in exceptional condition. Coins graded MS67 or higher are rare because they have been well-preserved and show no signs of wear or damage.
- The original luster and sharp details make these coins attractive to collectors, and their scarcity in higher grades drives up the price.
Factors That Influence the Value of Bicentennial Quarters
Several elements can significantly impact the value of a Bicentennial Quarter:
- Grade and Condition: The condition of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining its value. Coins are graded from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better preservation.
- Mint State (MS) coins with no signs of wear are worth far more than circulated examples. Coins in MS67, MS68, or higher grades are particularly valuable.
- Composition: The 40% silver Bicentennial Quarters minted at San Francisco are more valuable than the standard copper-nickel coins. Silver content adds intrinsic value and makes the coin more desirable to collectors.
- Mint Errors: Errors such as double dies, off-center strikes, and die clashes can make a coin unique and highly collectible. The rarity and visibility of the error influence the coin’s value.
- Market Demand: The demand for high-grade Bicentennial Quarters can fluctuate based on collector interest and market trends. Coins with a combination of rarity, historical significance, and visual appeal are likely to fetch higher prices.
FAQs About Bicentennial Quarters
Q1: Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
No, most Bicentennial Quarters are only worth their face value of 25 cents. However, coins in exceptional condition (high grades), silver versions, and those with mint errors can be worth significantly more.
Q2: How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is made of silver?
Silver Bicentennial Quarters have a solid silver-colored edge, unlike the copper-nickel versions, which display a copper stripe along the edge. They were minted at the San Francisco Mint and have an “S” mint mark. You can also weigh the coin; silver quarters are slightly heavier.
Q3: What is a Deep Cameo (DCAM) Proof Coin?
A Deep Cameo (DCAM) proof coin is one that features a strong contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirror-like background. This is achieved through a special minting process used for proof coins. DCAM coins are highly desirable, especially in perfect grades like PR70.
Q4: How do I get my Bicentennial Quarter graded?
You can submit your coin to a professional grading service such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
These organizations will authenticate and grade your coin based on its condition and rarity. A graded coin is often more valuable and can be sold for a higher price.
Q5: Where can I sell a valuable Bicentennial Quarter?
You can sell your coin through auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay. For high-value coins, consider contacting a reputable auction house specializing in numismatics. Make sure your coin is professionally graded to maximize its value.
Conclusion
While the majority of Bicentennial Quarters are worth only their face value, certain exceptional examples have become highly sought after by collectors. A nearly $40,000 Bicentennial Quarter stands as a testament to the value that rarity, condition, and composition can bring to a coin.
Additionally, other coins worth over $1,000 highlight the importance of mint errors, high-grade preservation, and silver content. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, the allure of the Bicentennial Quarter continues to captivate and inspire.
