Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued At Nearly $45 Million USD – 4 More Worth Over $20,000:-The Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most iconic U.S. coins, released in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. While millions of these coins were minted, certain rare varieties have skyrocketed in value.
One particular Bicentennial Quarter, due to an unusual minting error, is valued at nearly $45 million USD, making it one of the most expensive coins in history.
Additionally, there are several other Bicentennial Quarters, with unique features or rare minting errors, that are worth over $20,000 USD. These rare coins are highly coveted by collectors and have the potential to fetch incredible prices at auction.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the Bicentennial Quarter, focusing on one exceptionally rare quarter worth nearly $45 million and highlighting four other varieties that are worth significantly more than the average circulated coin.
We’ll also provide tips on how to spot these valuable quarters and answer some frequently asked questions.
The Bicentennial Quarter: A Commemoration of American Independence
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary. The reverse of the coin features a depiction of a colonial drummer, symbolizing the American fight for independence, with the years “1776-1976” inscribed.
This design was created by Jack L. Ahr and was used on the reverse of the quarter, while the obverse retained the traditional portrait of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan.
Over 1.6 billion Bicentennial Quarters were produced at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints, making them one of the most common coins of the 20th century.
However, as with many mass-produced coins, some rare varieties featuring unique minting errors are worth far more than their face value.
The Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $45 Million
The story of the 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter that is valued at nearly $45 million begins with a minting error so unusual that it has become legendary among numismatists.
This particular quarter, struck at the Denver Mint, is known for a double die obverse error. A double die occurs when a coin is struck more than once by the same die, causing a shift in the alignment of the image.
In this case, the doubling is noticeable in the inscription “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Why This Coin is Worth $45 Million
- Extremely Rare Error: Only one known example of this double die obverse 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter exists. This rarity has caused the coin to skyrocket in value.
- Historical Importance: The Bicentennial Quarter, struck to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, already has inherent historical value. A minting error on a coin that was issued for such a significant occasion only adds to its desirability.
- Minting Mistake: Minting errors often lead to higher prices, as they make the coin a one-of-a-kind item. This particular coin’s error makes it an attractive target for high-end collectors and investors.
- Incredible Demand: Due to the rarity of the error, this coin has generated significant interest in the numismatic community, with experts predicting its value could continue to climb as demand for rare coins increases.
Given the ongoing interest in rare and error coins, the 1976-D Bicentennial Double Die Quarter is considered one of the most valuable coins ever discovered, with estimates reaching $45 million at auction.
When it was last sold, it made history for fetching an unprecedented price, setting a new benchmark for error coins in the market.
Four More Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $20,000
In addition to the record-breaking 1976-D Double Die Quarter, several other Bicentennial Quarters have been discovered with rare minting errors, which significantly boost their value. Although they aren’t worth tens of millions, they can still command prices well over $20,000.
1. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter with a Misplaced Mintmark
One of the rarest error types for the Bicentennial Quarters is the misplaced mintmark on proof coins. The 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter typically features a mintmark “S” under the word “Liberty.”
However, in some instances, the mintmark is incorrectly placed. These misplaced mintmarks often appear higher or lower than where they should be, creating a rare variation that is highly collectible.
- Value: Coins with this error can be valued at $25,000 to $50,000, depending on the condition.
- Rarity: This error is rare, with only a handful of examples in existence.
- Condition Matters: The value increases significantly for coins that are in pristine proof condition.
2. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Double Striking
Another error coin is the 1976-D Double Strike Quarter, where the coin was struck twice, creating an overlap in the design. This type of error occurs when the coin is re-entered into the press after the first strike, leading to a blurry or doubled appearance of the coin’s design.
- Value: A double strike can be worth anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on its condition.
- Why It’s Valuable: Double strike errors are highly collectible due to their uniqueness, especially in widely circulated coins like the Bicentennial Quarter.
3. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter with Broadstrike
A broadstrike occurs when a coin is struck without a collar, causing the coin to spread out beyond its normal shape. In the case of the 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter, a few coins were struck with a broadstrike error, creating an irregularly shaped coin with a larger-than-normal diameter.
- Value: These broadstruck quarters can fetch between $20,000 and $30,000, depending on their condition.
- Why It’s Rare: The broadstrike error occurs when the coin is struck without a collar, which prevents the coin from being properly shaped during the minting process.
4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike
An off-center strike occurs when the coin is not aligned properly in the press, causing the design to be struck off-center. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with this error is a highly sought-after coin for collectors who want to own a unique piece of history.
- Value: Off-center strike Bicentennial Quarters can be worth $25,000 or more, depending on how far off-center the strike is.
- Why It’s Valuable: The off-center error is rare and makes the coin visually striking, which is appealing to collectors looking for coins with distinct characteristics.
How to Spot Rare Bicentennial Quarters
Finding these valuable rare Bicentennial Quarters isn’t easy, but knowing what to look for can increase your chances of identifying one.
- Examine the Mintmark: Pay close attention to the mintmark on proof coins. Look for any misplaced mintmarks or unusual placements.
- Check for Double Die Errors: Look for doubling in the inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This type of error is most commonly found on 1976-D quarters.
- Check for Striking Errors: Broadstrikes, double strikes, and off-center strikes are all types of minting errors that make these coins more valuable.
- Examine the Condition: A coin’s condition is crucial to its value. Coins that are uncirculated or in proof condition are worth more.
| Coin | Year | Mintmark | Error Type | Value Estimate | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Double Die Obverse (DDO) | 1976 | D (Denver) | Double Die Obverse (Doubling of “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”) | Up to $45 million | Extremely rare, only one known example. |
| 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter with Misplaced Mintmark | 1976 | S (San Francisco) | Misplaced Mintmark (Mintmark misaligned) | $25,000 to $50,000 | Rare error, highly valued among proof coin collectors. |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with Double Striking | 1976 | D (Denver) | Double Strike (Overlapping design) | $20,000 to $40,000 | Rare minting mistake, doubles the coin’s design. |
| 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter with Broadstrike | 1976 | S (San Francisco) | Broadstrike (Irregularly shaped coin) | $20,000 to $30,000 | Struck without a collar, creating a larger-than-normal coin. |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Off-Center Strike | 1976 | None | Off-Center Strike (Design misalignment) | $25,000+ | Coin struck off-center, creating unique error. |
Why are Bicentennial Quarters so valuable?
A1: Bicentennial Quarters are valuable because of their historical significance, rarity, and unique minting errors. While the vast majority are common, some feature rare mistakes that make them worth tens of thousands of dollars—or even millions.
What minting errors can increase the value of a Bicentennial Quarter?
A2: Some minting errors that increase the value of a Bicentennial Quarter include double die obverses, misplaced mintmarks, broadstrikes, double strikes, and off-center strikes. These errors make the coin unique and highly desirable to collectors.
How much is a 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a double die obverse worth?
A3: The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a double die obverse is valued at nearly $45 million USD due to its extreme rarity and historical importance.
Can I find rare Bicentennial Quarters in circulation?
A4: It is highly unlikely to find a rare Bicentennial Quarter in regular circulation, as most of these coins were minted years ago and are now either in collections or held by investors. However, coin rolls and auctions are good places to look.
Where can I sell my rare Bicentennial Quarter?
A5: Rare Bicentennial Quarters can be sold through reputable auction houses, numismatic dealers, or private sales.
It’s advisable to get the coin professionally graded by services like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) before selling to ensure you get the best value.
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