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The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter is a unique American coin. It commemorates one of the most important moments in the nation’s history, making it a popular collector’s item. While these coins may seem like a simple keepsake quarter with a unique design, they can be worth much more than their face value. This article breaks down how you can determine the approximate value of your bicentennial quarter and how to buy them if you're interested.
1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter Value TLDR:
Most basic bicentennial quarters are worth around their face value or slightly more, depending on their condition. However, some can be worth much more if they are in mint condition and exponentially more if they have rare mint errors. Read on to see if you have a rare bicentennial quarter worth hundreds or maybe thousands of dollars.
The History of Bicentennial Quarters
Bicentennial quarters were minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. They depict a revolutionary era American drummer, often called “the drummer boy” on the reverse. They were minted between 1975 and 1976 and were struck with the dual date 1776-1976. Over 1.6 billion bicentennial quarters were struck, making them relatively common. Despite their abundance, they quickly gained popularity among collectors and the public because of their unique design and historical significance.
How to Estimate the Value of a 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter
It's important to know how to estimate the value of a quarter's worth money, here's what to look for.
Know What to Look For
Searching for a rare bicentennial quarter or any coin is easiest when you know what you’re looking for. Keep an eye out for mint errors like overstamp, overstruck, die cap, doubled die and struck-through errors. Doubled die bicentennial quarters are some of the most popular with collectors and can be worth a few thousand dollars in great condition. Rarer and more unique errors, like when the wrong planchet is struck with the bicentennial quarter die, can be worth even more.
Inspect the Coin's Condition
Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS), with additional classifications for uncirculated coins. Check out Benzinga’s guide to coin grading and circulated vs. uncirculated coins for an in-depth explanation of the grading system. Generally, the better the condition, the higher the value. This effect is heightened in older coins as they have had longer to enter circulation and lose their luster.
Check for Mint Errors and Irregularities
Look for deviations from a standard bicentennial quarter, such as doubling, off-center strikes or other anomalies. Keep a close eye out for the more common bicentennial quarter mint errors listed above. Make sure to take note of the mint marks as well, which are one-letter codes that denote where the coin was minted.
Research the Market Value
Now that you know your coin’s rough condition, what mint mark it has and whether it has any mint errors, look up your specific coin with as much detail as possible. Hopefully, you will be able to find a similar or identical coin that has been sold recently to get an idea of what your coin could be worth.
How to Buy and Sell 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarters
You can buy and sell bicentennial quarters through online platforms like eBay or at brick-and-mortar coin shops. If you are looking to buy or sell a rare 1776-1976 bicentennial quarter, however, a reputable auction house like Heritage Auctions is likely your best bet.
Other Collectible Coins You May Prefer
Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars: First minted in 1916, the Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollar is a classic American coin featuring an iconic design by Adolph A. Weinman. The obverse showcases Lady Liberty walking towards the rising sun, while the reverse features a proud eagle perched on a pine branch. This coin's stunning design and its 90% silver content make it a popular choice among collectors and investors alike. You can purchase Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars from one of the most trustworthy precious metals dealers, APMEX, American Hartford Gold or JM Bullion.
Gold Mexican Libertad Coins: The Gold Mexican Libertad coin is a beautiful gold bullion coin produced by the Mexican Mint. It features the Mexican coat of arms on the obverse and the iconic Angel of Independence on the reverse. The Libertad is well-regarded for its purity (0.999 gold), limited mintage and unique design elements that pay homage to Mexico's rich history and culture. To acquire Gold Mexican Libertad coins, consider using American Hartford Gold, the world-class esteemed precious metals dealer offering direct delivery and IRA purchases.
Gold American Buffalo Coins: As the first 0.9999 fine 24-karat gold coin issued by the United States Mint, the Gold American Buffalo has become a highly sought-after choice for collectors and investors. Its design is a tribute to the classic Buffalo Nickel, with the obverse featuring a Native American profile and the reverse showcasing an American bison. This coin is popular for its purity, iconic design and prestige associated with U.S. Mint products. You can purchase Gold American Buffalo coins through reputable dealers like American Hartford Gold, JM Bullion or APMEX. For those interested in proof versions of the coin (struck twice for improved clarity and luster), Advantage Gold and Red Rock Secured offer both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bicentennial quarter is worth money?
The bicentennial quarters that are worth money are those that are in exceptional condition, such as uncirculated or proof coins. Additionally, any quarters that have errors or unique characteristics, such as missing letters or double strikes, can also be valuable to collectors. It is important to note that the value of these coins can vary greatly depending on their condition and rarity, so it is recommended to consult with a professional coin appraiser or collector for an accurate valuation.
Is the 1776-1976 quarter rare?
No, the 1776-1976 quarter is not considered rare. It was minted as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration and millions of these quarters were produced, making them fairly common. However, certain variations or errors in the coin may increase its value to collectors.
How can you tell if a bicentennial quarter is silver?
You can tell if a bicentennial quarter is silver by checking the edge of the coin. If it has a copper-nickel clad composition, the edge will be a solid brown color. However, if it is a silver bicentennial quarter, the edge will be silver in color. Additionally, you can also use a magnet to test its composition. If the quarter is attracted to the magnet, it is not silver.
About Henry Stater
Henry is an expert in all things crypto. He stays up to date with all the latest coins, platforms and technologies in the field. He has particular expertise in the burgeoning decentralized finance ecosystem and loves trying out all the new platforms. He also always follows major events in other financial markets and geopolitics as a whole, especially when an event’s effects ripple through the crypto market.