The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is more than just spare change—it’s a symbol of American pride, minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of U.S. independence. While over 1.6 billion of these quarters were produced, a handful of rare varieties have captured the attention of collectors and are now worth thousands of dollars.
If you think all Bicentennial quarters are only worth 25 cents, think again. These 3 rare Bicentennial quarters are creating a buzz in the numismatic world—and you just might have one hiding in your collection.
1. The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Over $19,000
One of the most valuable types is the 40% silver version, minted in San Francisco and identified by the “S” mintmark.
- Produced specifically for collector sets
- Contains 40% silver
- Significantly rarer than the standard copper-nickel clad version
Auction Highlight:
A 1976-S silver quarter in near-perfect MS-69 condition once sold for over $19,000 at auction!
How to spot it:
- Look for the “S” mintmark
- Weighs slightly more: 5.75 grams (vs. 5.67 grams for clad coins)
- Does not stick to a magnet
If you’ve got an “S” quarter, it’s worth checking whether it’s the silver version—you could be holding a serious treasure.
2. The Double Die Error Bicentennial Quarter – Valued at $3,000+
Double die errors happen during the minting process when the coin’s design is stamped twice, slightly misaligned. This results in noticeable doubling on the coin’s inscriptions, particularly:
- “1776–1976”
- “LIBERTY”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
These errors are not extremely common, making them very collectible.
Market Value:
Depending on the clarity of the doubling and overall condition, these coins have sold for over $3,000.
Tip: Use a magnifying glass to look closely at the lettering. If you spot doubling, you may be in luck!
3. The Off-Center Strike Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Over $5,000
Off-center strike errors occur when a coin is misaligned during minting, causing part of the design to be stamped incorrectly.
- The more off-center the coin, the more valuable it becomes
- A strike that’s 50% off-center with the date still visible is especially prized
Auction Highlight:
Some off-center Bicentennial quarters have fetched $5,000 or more, especially those with dramatic misalignment.
Why it’s rare:
These minting mistakes are one-of-a-kind. Each off-center coin has its own unique “look,” which adds to its desirability.
Don’t Spend That Change Just Yet!
While most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are worth face value, these rare types could turn your pocket change into a small fortune. Whether it’s due to silver content, mint errors, or perfect condition, these coins are heating up the collector’s market.
Before you spend that shiny 1976 quarter, take a closer look—you might just have one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is valuable?
Look for silver content (S mintmark), mint errors (doubling, off-center), and condition. Grading helps assess value.
2. What is a regular Bicentennial quarter worth?
Most clad quarters are only worth 25 cents. However, rare types can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
3. Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial quarter?
Sell through:
Coin dealers
Online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions)
Coin shows
4. Should I clean my rare coin before selling?
No! Cleaning a coin can lower its value. Always keep it in original condition and consider professional grading.
Final Thought
With the U.S. Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) approaching in 2026, interest in Bicentennial coins is only going to grow. Now’s the perfect time to check your change, examine your collection, and maybe even strike it rich.