Rare Bicentennial Quarter Has Nearly $20K Value — Plus 7 More Worth Thousands

If you lived through the 1970s, you probably remember the excitement around America’s 200th birthday in 1976. It was a big deal nationwide. Celebrations filled the streets, and patriotic items flooded homes—everything from flags and posters to coins and keepsakes.

Among the most popular collectibles of that time were the special bicentennial quarters issued by the U.S. Mint. As the country gears up for its 250th anniversary, these quarters are now gaining serious value—and some are worth thousands of dollars.

Why Bicentennial Quarters Are So Unique

Unlike standard U.S. quarters, the 1976 bicentennial quarters had a bold, new design. Released in 1975 and 1976, they replaced the traditional eagle on the back with a striking image of a Colonial drummer and a torch surrounded by 13 stars—a nod to the original colonies and America’s Revolutionary roots.

These quarters were the first redesign in over 50 years and quickly became iconic.

Some Quarters Are Worth Big Money

One of the most valuable examples, the 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter, once sold at auction for a massive $19,200, according to Chronicle Collectibles. And that’s just the beginning—many others have also sold for over $1,000 each, making them hot items for collectors.

Most bicentennial quarters are “clad” (made from copper and nickel), but a limited batch was struck in 40% silver—and that makes all the difference in value.

It’s All About the Grade and Rarity

What makes these coins valuable isn’t just age—it’s condition, rarity, and minting location. Quarters that are in pristine, uncirculated condition can fetch significantly more at auction.

These special quarters were made at three U.S. Mints:

• Philadelphia: 809,784,016 coins
• Denver: 860,118,839 coins
• San Francisco: A much smaller batch including
  • 11 million 40% silver uncirculated coins
  • 7,059,099 clad proof coins
  • 4 million silver proof coins

Collectors love these low-mintage versions because they’re much harder to find today.

7 Bicentennial Quarters That Sold for Over $1,000

Here’s a look at seven notable bicentennial quarters that have made headlines for their high sale prices:

1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter

Sold for $13,500 in 2019. This coin is part of the silver proof series, known for its brilliant finish and excellent condition.

2. Double Denomination Quarter (1976)

Sold for $9,200 in 2020. This rare error coin was mistakenly struck on a dime blank, making it extremely rare.

3. 1976-D Clad Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)

Sold for $8,400 in 2023. The front of the coin shows a doubled image, a minting error that adds major value.

4. 1976-D Clad Bicentennial Quarter

Sold for $6,463 in 2017. A standard strike coin in unusually perfect condition.

5. 1976-S Clad Proof Quarter

Sold for $6,038 in 2010. These proof coins are struck with high detail and mirror-like surfaces.

6. 1976-S Silver Deep Cameo Proof Quarter

Sold for $2,760 in 2007. The deep contrast between the frosted design and shiny background gives it a stunning appearance.

7. 1976 Clad Bicentennial Quarter

Sold for $1,821 in 2023. Although widely circulated, its near-perfect condition set it apart.

These Coins Might Still Be in Your Pocket

Bicentennial quarters were everywhere in the 1970s, and many are still in circulation or sitting in old change jars. While most are only worth 25 cents, a few rare ones with errors, silver content, or flawless surfaces could be worth thousands.

So, before you toss those old coins aside, take a closer look—you might be holding a small fortune.

Final Thoughts

Bicentennial quarters are more than spare change—they’re historical tokens with the potential for real value. Whether it’s a minting error, a silver proof, or a coin in perfect condition, these quarters show that sometimes the past can still pay off.

Collectors and investors alike are on the hunt for these treasures, proving that even pocket change can tell a rich and valuable story.

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