Rare Bicentennial Quarter Has Nearly $20K Value — Plus 7 More Worth Thousands

People who lived through the 1970s may fondly recall the nationwide bicentennial festivities in 1976, when the United States marked 200 years of independence. That historic year brought a wave of patriotic enthusiasm, inspiring a flood of commemorative items, memorabilia, and keepsakes — from trinkets and souvenirs to collectible items that filled shelves across the country.

Among the many commemoratives produced during that period were special edition quarters issued by the U.S. Mint. As the country looks ahead to its 250th anniversary, some of these bicentennial quarters have grown significantly in value and are now considered prized collectibles.

These quarters were released in both 1975 and 1976, standing out because they were the first U.S. quarters in over half a century to feature a unique design on the reverse side. The imagery — a Colonial drummer and a victory torch encircled by 13 stars — replaced the traditional eagle motif to honor the spirit of the Revolution.

Big Bicentennial Bucks

Among the most sought-after examples is the 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter in exceptional condition, which once fetched $19,200 at auction, as reported by the Chronicle Collectibles site. And that’s just one example — numerous other bicentennial quarters have sold for impressive sums as well.

While the majority of these coins were “clad,” meaning they were made of layered metals like copper and nickel, the U.S. Mint also released a limited number containing 40% silver. These silver versions are significantly more scarce, which boosts their market value among collectors.

A coin’s grade — or how well it has been preserved — plays a critical role in determining its worth. Coins that remain in near-perfect, uncirculated condition are especially desirable and can command much higher prices.

The bicentennial quarters were minted at three major facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. The mintage totals varied, with Philadelphia producing 809,784,016 coins, Denver striking 860,118,839, and San Francisco contributing a smaller but more collectible number — 11 million uncirculated 40% silver coins, 7,059,099 clad proof coins, and 4 million silver proof coins.

Here are seven notable bicentennial quarters that have each sold for more than $1,000, as documented by the CoinValueChecker website:

1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter sold in 2019 for an impressive $13,500. This coin is part of the silver proof series and earned its value thanks to its high grade and preserved condition.

2. Double Denomination 1976 Bicentennial Quarter

A Double Denomination 1976 Bicentennial Quarter that was mistakenly struck on a dime planchet sold for $9,200 in 2020. Such mint errors are extremely rare and highly valued by collectors.

3. 1976-D Clad DDO Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976-D Clad DDO Bicentennial Quarter — where “DDO” stands for “Doubled Die Obverse,” meaning the design appears doubled on the front — sold for $8,400 in 2023. This particular variety is hard to find and commands premium value.

4. 1976-D Clad Bicentennial Quarter

In 2017, a 1976-D Clad Bicentennial Quarter in excellent condition and with a regular strike (meaning it was intended for circulation) sold for $6,463, reflecting both its scarcity in high grades and collector interest.

5. 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter, a proof coin that showcases fine detail and mirror-like surfaces, sold for $6,038 in 2010. Its high price reflects both condition and rarity.

6. 1976-S Silver Proof Deep Cameo Bicentennial Quarter

A 1976-S Silver Proof Deep Cameo Bicentennial Quarter fetched $2,760 at auction in 2007. The “Deep Cameo” effect — where the frosted design strongly contrasts with the mirror-like background — is a key factor in its value.

7. 1976 Clad Bicentennial Quarter

Finally, a 1976 Clad Bicentennial Quarter from a regular strike, sold in 2023 for $1,821. While clad quarters were widely produced, this coin’s condition and strong collector demand contributed to its sale price.

These examples demonstrate that even coins that once passed through everyday hands can become valuable treasures, particularly when they feature unique designs, mint errors, or are preserved in exceptional condition.