1. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (Silver Clad)
The 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter made from 40% silver is one of the most coveted versions of this commemorative coin. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, these proof coins were part of a special collector’s set released for the U.S. Bicentennial celebration. What sets this coin apart is its mirror-like finish and silver content, which distinguishes it from the standard copper-nickel issues.
Proof coins were not intended for circulation, so finding one in pristine condition can fetch you a nice sum—often $15 to $100 or more, depending on the grade. High-grade specimens certified by PCGS or NGC with a PR69 or PR70 Deep Cameo designation are especially valuable.
These quarters feature the dual date “1776–1976” and the colonial drummer design, making them visually distinctive. To determine if your coin is silver, you can look at the edge—silver proofs usually lack the orange copper ring that standard coins have.
2. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse
A rare error version of the Bicentennial quarter, the 1976-D with a double die obverse (DDO), has fascinated collectors for decades. This error occurs when the coin is struck twice by a misaligned die, creating a noticeable doubling in elements like the date or the word “LIBERTY.”
While many DDO errors are subtle, the 1976-D version has a more prominent doubling, especially visible in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These coins, when found in uncirculated or lightly circulated condition, can be worth anywhere from $100 to several hundred dollars depending on the severity of the doubling and coin condition.
When evaluating a DDO, magnification tools are essential. Certification by a reputable grading company ensures authenticity and increases market value. Even minor doubling can attract attention from error coin enthusiasts, and owning one offers a unique piece of minting history that goes beyond standard issue.
3. 1976 No Mint Mark Error Bicentennial Quarter
While most Bicentennial quarters were minted with a visible mint mark—either “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco—some rare specimens exist without any mint mark. These “No Mint Mark” errors can be incredibly valuable to collectors due to their scarcity and mystery.
Most likely, these were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which typically didn’t use a mint mark at the time, but what makes some of these examples more interesting is the accidental omission of an expected mark or a particularly sharp strike that omitted one entirely.
Although not every no-mint-mark quarter is rare, certain errors can increase value significantly, especially if verified as a legitimate minting mistake. These coins should be authenticated and graded professionally. Values range from $50 to several hundred dollars depending on the coin’s condition and the uniqueness of the error.
4. 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter (Uncirculated)
Different from the proof version, the 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter also came in an uncirculated form as part of a three-coin 40% silver set. These coins were not meant for general circulation and were usually sold to collectors in special Mint packaging.
While not as rare as error coins, these silver quarters are worth significantly more than face value due to both their silver content and collector demand. An uncirculated 1976-S silver quarter can fetch between $10 and $50, and higher for coins graded MS65 or above.
These coins have a satin-like finish, and their silver edges are a quick way to identify them. Storing these coins in their original mint packaging or protective holders helps maintain their value. With silver prices fluctuating, these coins also hold some intrinsic value beyond numismatics, making them a solid addition to any collection.
5. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike
Off-center strikes occur when a coin is not properly aligned during minting, resulting in a coin design that is shifted to one side. A 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a major off-center strike is a rare and valuable error. These coins can range in value from $100 to over $1,000, depending on how much of the design is off-center and how well-preserved the coin is.
A 5-10% off-center strike might add some value, but a 50% off-center error that still shows the full date and mint mark is much more desirable. These errors are usually spotted visually without magnification. If you have one, getting it authenticated and graded can maximize its market potential. Such minting errors are considered collectibles within the error coin community and are often featured in auctions and coin shows for premium prices.
6. Full Drum Lines Bicentennial Quarter
The reverse design of the Bicentennial quarter features a colonial drummer. Collectors particularly value coins where the drum’s lines are fully visible and sharply struck—referred to as “Full Drum Lines.” Like the Full Bands on Mercury Dimes or Full Steps on Jefferson Nickels, Full Drum Lines indicate a strong and well-executed strike.
These coins command a premium over typical circulated quarters, especially in mint state grades like MS65 or higher. Prices vary based on condition but often range from $30 to $150 for top examples. These sharp-strike coins are not errors but represent quality control during production, making them a prized version of the common Bicentennial quarter.
They’re relatively difficult to find in circulation today, and your best bet is searching through mint sets or uncirculated rolls. If you find one, especially in a high grade, it’s worth submitting for grading to preserve and document its quality.
7. Bicentennial Quarter with Clipped Planchet
A clipped planchet occurs when a blank coin is improperly cut from the metal sheet, resulting in a coin that appears to have a small crescent-shaped bite taken out of it. While this type of mint error can occur on any coin, finding one on a 1976 Bicentennial quarter adds an extra layer of collectability.
The value of such an error can vary significantly depending on the size and placement of the clip. A small clip might fetch $25 to $75, while a larger, more dramatic clip could sell for $100 or more. These coins should show no signs of post-mint damage to be considered authentic clipped planchets.
Professional grading services can verify and label the error, increasing market appeal. Many collectors love the visual oddity these errors provide, and clipped planchet quarters can be a conversation starter as well as a good investment.
8. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Struck on Wrong Planchet
A rare and fascinating error involves Bicentennial quarters struck on the wrong planchet—meaning the metal disc used wasn’t intended for a quarter. These errors often result in undersized or oversized coins, sometimes with different metal content.
For example, a quarter mistakenly struck on a dime or foreign coin planchet can weigh less and appear different in diameter or color. These coins are extremely rare and can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the nature of the mistake.
Such errors must be verified by a grading service to rule out tampering. The easiest way to begin identifying one is by weighing the coin with a precision scale and measuring its diameter. These “wrong planchet” errors are prized by error collectors and fetch top dollar when confirmed authentic.
9. Deep Cameo Bicentennial Proof Quarters
Proof coins often come in two varieties: Cameo and Deep Cameo. A Deep Cameo Bicentennial quarter features frosted design elements that starkly contrast with a mirror-like background. This effect is highly desirable among collectors and increases the coin’s value considerably, especially when the coin is graded PR69 or PR70.
These quarters were minted in San Francisco and can be part of both silver and clad proof sets. Prices range from $30 to $200 depending on condition and silver content. These coins are easily damaged, so they should be handled carefully and stored in their original cases or in airtight holders. Deep Cameo quarters provide both visual appeal and collectible value, and they remain in high demand among modern collectors.
10. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter in Original Mint Packaging
Quarters that remain in their original government packaging retain a higher value than those removed from sets. These coins are typically better preserved, having been shielded from handling, moisture, and air exposure. Mint packaging includes plastic cases or envelopes that house uncirculated or proof coins.
A 1976-S silver proof quarter in original packaging can be worth up to $100, depending on silver prices and coin condition. Collectors often pay a premium for intact sets because they offer the best chance of finding high-grade coins. If you’re purchasing one online, verify that the packaging is untampered and that the coin hasn’t been swapped out for a lesser example.
11. Bicentennial Quarter with Struck-Through Error
Struck-through errors happen when foreign materials like grease, cloth, or metal shavings interfere during the minting process, leaving an unusual indentation or missing details on the coin. While rare, these errors have been found on Bicentennial quarters and are collectible due to their odd appearance.
The value can range from $25 to over $200 based on the size and location of the struck-through area. These errors should be authenticated to verify they occurred during minting and not post-production. Such coins highlight the imperfect human element in coin production and are appreciated for their uniqueness and backstory.
12. High-Grade Business Strike 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (MS67+)
Even standard circulation strike Bicentennial quarters can be valuable if they are found in exceptionally high condition. MS67 or higher graded coins are rare because circulation and handling usually lead to dings and scratches. A top-graded MS67 Bicentennial quarter can fetch $100 or more at auction.
To identify a potential high-grade coin, look for one with sharp details, no visible nicks, and full original luster. Coins found in original mint rolls or sets stand the best chance of being this pristine. Submitting the coin for grading is recommended if you believe it could reach MS67 or higher.
13. Bicentennial Quarter with Missing Clad Layer
Missing clad layer errors are rare but can occasionally be found on Bicentennial quarters. These coins appear duller and are usually lighter in weight due to the absence of the outer copper-nickel layer. They may reveal the inner copper core, giving the coin a distinctive reddish or coppery appearance.
Such errors can fetch between $200 and $500 or more when authenticated. Like all error coins, it’s important to confirm this through a reputable grading service, as post-mint damage could mimic this look. These coins are favorites among collectors who seek oddities that stand out.
FAQs
Q1: Are Bicentennial quarters still in circulation today?
Yes, many Bicentennial quarters remain in circulation, but the more valuable ones—especially silver, error, or high-grade examples—are rarely found in loose change today.
Q2: How do I know if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Silver quarters were only made at the San Francisco Mint and often came in collector sets. Look for an “S” mint mark and check the coin’s edge—silver versions lack the copper-colored edge found on clad coins.
Q3: What’s the best way to sell a valuable Bicentennial quarter?
Use online auction platforms like eBay or consult coin dealers, especially for professionally graded coins. For rare or high-value coins, consider consigning through a reputable coin auction house.
Q4: Should I get my Bicentennial quarter graded?
If you suspect your coin has an error or is in exceptionally high condition, getting it graded can confirm authenticity and increase its market value. Use grading services like PCGS or NGC.
Conclusion
Bicentennial quarters may seem like everyday pocket change, but among them lie valuable treasures that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Whether it’s a silver proof coin, an unusual mint error, or a sharply struck high-grade example, these coins offer collectors and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of American history.
Understanding what makes each coin valuable—from errors and strike quality to silver content—can help you spot these hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just curious about what’s in your coin jar, keep an eye out. That drummer boy quarter might just drum up some serious cash.