It’s easy to overlook pocket change. Most of us drop coins into jars, toss them into car cup holders, or spend them without a second glance. But what if one of those ordinary-looking quarters was worth hundreds—or even $100,000? Among the coins that have caught collectors’ eyes, the 1976 Bicentennial quarter stands out. Released to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, it looks a bit different from regular quarters—and a few rare versions are worth a fortune. Let’s uncover the three Bicentennial quarters you should be watching for in your everyday change.
1. 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter
The San Francisco Mint released a special 40% silver version of the Bicentennial quarter for collectors. These coins were never intended for circulation, but some have made their way into the public. They’re distinguishable by their “S” mintmark and their lack of a copper stripe on the edge. While most silver Bicentennial quarters are worth between $3 to $10, high-grade uncirculated or proof examples can sell for $200 to $3,000—and rare varieties with errors can go even higher.
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse
One of the most desirable Bicentennial errors is the Double Die Obverse (DDO). These errors occur when the coin is struck by a die that had a misaligned or duplicated image. In the Bicentennial quarter, this doubling is most often seen in the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date. A well-preserved doubled die quarter can fetch $1,000 to $7,500, depending on grade and clarity. Some of the sharpest doubling examples are auction favorites.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on the Wrong Planchet
A planchet is the blank piece of metal a coin is struck on. Rarely, a Bicentennial quarter was struck on the wrong planchet—such as one meant for a dime or foreign coin. These error coins are incredibly rare and often weigh less or have a different coloration than normal quarters. One such quarter, mistakenly struck on a 40% silver planchet, sold for over $100,000 at auction. These types of mint errors are what coin collectors dream of finding in circulation.
A Hidden Treasure in Your Spare Change
The next time you receive change from a purchase, don’t be so quick to toss those coins aside. A closer look at your Bicentennial quarters could reveal a hidden gem worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. With a basic understanding of mintmarks, silver content, and rare errors, anyone can become a savvy coin spotter. So check your change. The next big find might already be in your hands.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Silver versions have an “S” mintmark and lack the copper-colored edge. They also feel slightly heavier than standard quarters.
2. What is a doubled die error, and how can I spot one?
A doubled die error occurs when the coin design is imprinted more than once. Look closely at the lettering for doubling or shadow-like effects.
3. Are these rare quarters still found in circulation?
Yes, though very rare, silver or error Bicentennial quarters have occasionally been discovered in everyday change or old coin jars.
4. Where should I get a coin appraised or sold?
You can visit a certified coin dealer, attend coin shows, or send coins to grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication and valuation.
5. Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No, most are common and worth face value. Only silver coins, misstrikes, and specific mint errors carry significant value.
