Still holding on to spare change? You might want to take a closer look at your coins—because a handful of rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarters could be worth a fortune.
These quarters were released to celebrate 200 years of American independence, and while most are common, some rare varieties have reached staggering values among collectors.
In fact, five specific types have a combined worth of over $101 million if found in the right condition and rarity. Let’s break down which Bicentennial quarters you should be looking for—and why they’re worth big money.
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
This special edition was minted in San Francisco using 40% silver instead of the regular copper-nickel blend. These quarters were never meant for circulation and were included in proof sets. But a few have made it into the wild.
- Mint Mark: S
- Composition: 40% Silver
- Condition Required: Deep cameo, high-grade proof
- Estimated Value: Up to $19,200
2. 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
This Denver-minted quarter displays noticeable doubling in the date and inscriptions on the front. Doubling occurs when the die shifts during minting, creating a second impression. This type of mint error is rare and incredibly desirable.
- Mint Mark: D
- Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
- Condition Required: Uncirculated or near mint
- Estimated Value: Up to $1,000
3. 1976 No S Proof Quarter
One of the rarest of the bunch, this quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint but lacks the “S” mint mark due to a striking error. Only a small number were released, and these are almost impossible to find in circulation.
- Mint Mark: None
- Error Type: Missing Mint Mark
- Condition Required: Proof condition
- Estimated Value: Up to $50,000
4. 1976 Quarter Struck on Dime Planchet
In very rare cases, a Bicentennial Quarter was mistakenly struck on a dime-sized planchet. This causes the coin to appear undersized and with portions of the design missing.
- Mint Mark: Varies
- Error Type: Wrong Planchet
- Appearance: Smaller size, partial design
- Estimated Value: Up to $9,200
5. 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Quarter
Unlike the proof versions, these silver quarters were released in uncirculated sets. In pristine condition, they can fetch high prices among collectors—especially when graded MS-68 or higher.
- Mint Mark: S
- Composition: 40% Silver
- Condition Required: Brilliant Uncirculated
- Estimated Value: Up to $1,000
| Quarter Type | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Silver Proof | S | 40% Silver, Deep Cameo | Up to $19,200 |
| 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse | D | Doubled inscriptions/date | Up to $1,000 |
| 1976 No S Proof | None | Missing mint mark | Up to $50,000 |
| 1976 on Dime Planchet | Varies | Struck on smaller planchet | Up to $9,200 |
| 1976-S Silver Uncirculated | S | High-grade, silver | Up to $1,000 |
It’s not just loose change—it could be life-changing. These rare Bicentennial Quarters continue to circulate among unsuspecting hands, and the odds of finding one might be slim, but not impossible.
If you come across a 1976 quarter, look closely for errors, unusual mint marks, or silver shine. With values reaching into the tens of thousands—and the total potential of these five coins adding up to $101 million—checking your change just might pay off.
So the next time you’re sorting coins or digging through an old coin jar, don’t overlook the 1976 quarters. That seemingly ordinary coin might just be one of the rarest treasures still in circulation.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1976 quarter is silver?
Check the edge of the coin. A silver quarter has a solid silver-colored edge, while a clad coin shows a copper strip. Also, silver quarters were only minted with the “S” mint mark.
Are all Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No. Most are worth only face value. However, certain mint errors, missing mint marks, and silver versions can be extremely valuable.
What is a Doubled Die Obverse?
It’s a minting error where the coin’s front design (obverse) appears doubled, especially in the text or date. These are rare and highly collectible.