The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States. While the standard versions are worth just 25 cents, certain rare variations of these quarters have become highly valuable due to minting errors and special characteristics.
A few of these coins have even been known to fetch prices as high as $10 million, with some others reaching over $100K. Below are three of the best $10 million-priced rare Bicentennial Quarters, along with two more rare finds worth over $100K.
1. 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter: $10 Million
One of the most valuable and sought-after errors in U.S. coin collecting is the double die error. This occurs when the coin’s design is struck more than once, causing a doubling effect on the image, especially noticeable in the inscriptions like “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one of the few coins where this error has been discovered, and it can command a price as high as $10 million in perfect condition.
Why is it valuable?
Double die errors are rare and highly coveted by collectors due to their unique appearance. A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a double die error is one of the most iconic and valuable U.S. coins, with prices climbing as high as $10 million for a coin in top condition.
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Misaligned Die: $10 Million
A misaligned die error happens when the die used to strike the coin is not perfectly aligned with the planchet (the metal disc), causing the design to be shifted or off-center.
This type of error is relatively rare, and a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a significant misaligned die could be worth up to $10 million, depending on the extent of the misalignment and the coin’s condition.
Why is it valuable?
Misaligned die errors are rare because the mint usually rejects any coins that do not meet proper alignment standards. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with this error is highly collectible, and its unique misalignment can make it extremely valuable at auction.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Strike Error: $10 Million
A double strike occurs when a coin is struck twice by the minting press, leading to an overlapping design. This is another rare minting error that can cause a faint second strike to appear on a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, making it highly valuable.
Depending on the severity and visibility of the second strike, these coins can be worth up to $10 million.
Why is it valuable?
Double-struck coins are rare because they are not usually allowed to remain in circulation. However, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with this error is highly sought after due to the distinctive and unique appearance of the double image.
4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Clipped Planchet Error: $100K
A clipped planchet error occurs when the planchet (the metal blank used to strike the coin) is imperfectly cut, resulting in a missing section or clip along the edge of the coin.
This type of error is relatively rare, and a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a clipped planchet can be worth around $100K depending on the size and visibility of the clip.
Why is it valuable?
Clipped planchet errors are highly desirable because they make the coin distinctive and unique. Coins with clipped planchets are often considered error coins, and their scarcity makes them particularly valuable to collectors.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Laminated Planchet Error: $100K
A laminated planchet error happens when the metal layers that form the coin are imperfectly bonded during the minting process, causing parts of the coin to peel or laminate.
This error results in a distinctive layering on the coin’s surface. A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a laminated planchet error can be worth around $100K depending on the size and prominence of the lamination.
Why is it valuable?
Laminated planchets are rare, as they result from a defect during the minting process. Because of the distinctive look these coins have, they are highly collectible, and the more visible the lamination, the higher the value.
| Coin Name | Year | Error Type | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Double die error | $10 million |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Misaligned Die | 1976 | Misaligned die error | $10 million |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Strike | 1976 | Double strike error | $10 million |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Clipped Planchet | 1976 | Clipped planchet error | $100K |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Laminated Planchet | 1976 | Laminated planchet error | $100K |
Also see:-4 Rare Dimes And rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth $15 Million Dollars Each Are Still in Circulation
What makes a Bicentennial Quarter worth millions of dollars?
A Bicentennial Quarter can be worth millions if it has a rare minting error or defect. Common errors include double die, misaligned die, double strikes, and clipped planchets. These errors are rare and make the coin significantly more valuable than its face value of 25 cents.
What is a double die error, and how does it affect the value of a coin?
A double die error occurs when the design is stamped twice during the minting process, causing a doubling effect on the coin’s inscriptions. For example, the words “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST” might appear doubled or shifted.
A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with this error is extremely rare and can sell for up to $10 million because it’s considered one of the most desirable minting errors among coin collectors.
How do I spot a double die Bicentennial Quarter?
To spot a double die error, examine the inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Look for faint duplication of the lettering.
You might see a second, blurry set of letters appearing slightly offset or doubled. The error will be most noticeable in the letters and design details.
What is a misaligned die error on a Bicentennial Quarter?
A misaligned die error happens when the die used to strike the coin is not perfectly aligned with the planchet (metal disc), which causes the design to be shifted or off-center.
If the error is significant, it can make the coin worth up to $10 million. Misaligned die errors are rare because the mint usually rejects coins with such misalignment, making them highly collectible.