You could find a $80 million quarter in your spare change. Many people have been interested in stories about rare coins selling for huge amounts of money at auction, even though it seems impossible.
People say the Bicentennial Quarter was worth a lot more than it really was. But its story and the myths about collecting coins show how important it is to look everywhere for secret treasures. Check out the Bicentennial Quarter and the coins that can make a difference in your life.
What Makes the Bicentennial Quarter Special?
When the United States became free 200 years ago, the Bicentennial Quarter was made to honor that event. The back has a unique pattern by Jack L. that makes it different from regular quarters.
A drum from the colonies that has 13 stars on it to represent the original colonies. The well-known portrait of George Washington is still on the front, but the numbers “1776–1976” are there to draw attention to the actual event.
The U.S. Mint made two kinds of Bicentennial Quarters: covered and 40% silver. You could only get the 40% silver coins in special sets for collecting them.
Bicentennial Quarters are mostly worth what they say they are worth, but some can be worth more than what they say they are worth.
Factors That Could Make a Bicentennial Quarter Valuable
Error Coins: Collectors love coins that have flaws from the mint. Like strikes that are repeated, strikes that are off-center, or coins that are missing features. Because Bicentennial Quarter errors are so rare and one-of-a-kind, they could be worth hundreds of dollars.
High-Grade Condition: The grade of a coin, which ranges from 1 to 70, tells you a lot about how much it’s worth. Coins of good quality have clear features and no wear. Coins from the Bicentennial that are graded MS-67 or higher fetch higher prices at sale.
40% Silver Versions: The 40% silver for collectors only There is more value in Bicentennial Quarters than in Clad Quarters. Collectors value these coins more because they contain silver. Proof coins or coins that have never been used are worth a lot more.
Unique Provenance: History or where a coin came from can make it more valuable. Some coin collectors will pay more for coins that come from well-known collections or have interesting backstories.
The Myth of the $80 Million Quarter
Where did the idea for the $80 million Bicentennial Quarter come from? Like many urban tales about coin collectors, this one probably began with exaggerated claims and hopeless anticipation.
Even though a Bicentennial Quarter has never sold for $80 million, the story behind it shows how expensive rare coins can be. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle and the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar are both million-dollar coins. There is a look for a life-changing coin because sales have broken records.
How to Start Your Own Bicentennial Quarter Hunt
Check Your Change: The first and easiest thing to do is to use up any extra cash you have. It’s crazy how many Bicentennial Quarters are still being used. You might find one that is in great shape or has a mistake on it that is worth more than 25 cents.
Visit Banks and Exchange Rolls: Talk to your bank to find out if you can trade cash for quarter rolls. Sorting through rolls is a fun and useful way to look for hidden gems.
Explore Coin Shows and Auctions: Gather coins at coin shows and sales if you’re really into it. You can find nice Bicentennial Quarters and learn more about rare coins.
Invest in a Magnifying Glass and Coin Holders: Get a magnifying glass to be able to see small features and mistakes on your coins. Putting your valuable finds in coin cases will protect them from getting broken.
Will a Bicentennial Quarter Change Your Life?
Finding a Bicentennial Quarter worth $80 million is almost impossible, but for some, the thrill of the hunt and the chance to find a rare mistake coin or a high-grade piece can make their lives better.
You can still have fun and learn new things while collecting coins, even if you don’t get lucky and get rich.
The next coin you find could be worth a lot more than you thought. Keep your eyes open and your change jars full.