In addition to the Double Die Obverse 1976-S, there are other rare Bicentennial Quarters that can fetch over $5,000, particularly those with minting errors or in excellent condition. Here are some notable examples:
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Mint Error: Off-center strike)
A 1976-D quarter with an off-center strike, which is a production error, can be worth several thousand dollars if it shows a significant amount of off-center misalignment. Such errors are valued by collectors due to their rarity.
1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter (High-Grade Specimen)
A high-grade proof coin, graded PR69 DCAM (Deep Cameo) or higher, could be worth $5,000 or more. The quality of these proof coins, with their frosty devices and mirror-like fields, makes them highly desirable in pristine condition.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Die Clash Error)
A die clash occurs when two dies collide without a planchet (coin blank) between them. These quarters have unusual features or images from the reverse or obverse die showing up where they shouldn’t be. These rare errors can attract prices over $5,000.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Full Torch)
Quarters with a fully struck “torch” on the reverse (the flame and the rays) are highly sought after, as many Bicentennial Quarters have weak strikes in this area. A well-defined “full torch” can make a quarter much more valuable, sometimes exceeding $5,000.
1976-S Bicentennial Quarter (Reverse Die Crack or Break)
A coin with a die crack or break on the reverse side (such as along the edge of the coin or on specific design elements) can be rare and highly collectible. These die errors often fetch significant sums when in good condition.
1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarters, which were part of a special set released by the U.S. Mint, contain 90% silver and were minted only for proof sets. While these are not rare by themselves, if found in top condition or graded very highly (like PR69 or PR70), their value can exceed $5,000.
Also See: Top 3 Rare Quarters You’ve Been Holding Onto Without Knowing
| Coin Type | Description | Key Features | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Double Die Obverse | A rare error where the date “1976” shows doubling. | Noticeable doubling on the date. | Up to $350,000 (depending on grade) |
| 1976-D Off-center Strike | A minting error where the quarter is struck off-center. | Significant misalignment. | Several thousand dollars (depending on severity of the error) |
| 1976-S Proof (PR69 or higher) | A high-grade proof coin from the San Francisco Mint. | Frosty devices, mirror-like fields. | $5,000+ |
| 1976-D Die Clash Error | A minting error caused by two dies colliding. | Unusual features or images from the obverse or reverse die. | Over $5,000 (depending on the clarity and severity) |
| 1976 Bicentennial (Full Torch) | A coin with a fully struck “torch” on the reverse side. | Clear, well-defined “torch” and flame. | $5,000+ |
| 1976-S Reverse Die Crack or Break | A coin showing die cracks or breaks on the reverse. | Cracks along design elements or edges. | Several thousand dollars (depending on the extent and visibility) |
| 1976-S Silver Proof | Part of a special set, containing 90% silver. | Found in proof sets with high grades. | Over $5,000 (if PR69 or PR70) |
What makes a Bicentennial Quarter rare?
A Bicentennial Quarter becomes rare when it has specific minting errors (like double dies, off-center strikes, or die clashes), is in excellent condition, or has other unique features that distinguish it from a typical coin. Coins that are in high demand are often those with production errors or rare qualities like a “Full Torch” strike.
How can I tell if my 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is worth more than 25 cents?
To determine whether your quarter is worth more than face value, check for features like doubled dates (on the 1976-S Double Die Obverse), off-center strikes, die cracks, or fully struck features like the “Full Torch.” Additionally, coin condition is crucial—coins graded PR69 or higher can be worth significantly more.
How can I assess the value of a 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter?
If your 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter is in perfect or near-perfect condition, it may be worth much more than face value. A coin graded PR69 or PR70 by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can be worth upwards of $5,000, depending on market demand.