The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was made to honor 200 years of American independence. These quarters show a colonial drummer and have the special dates “1776–1976.” Over 1.6 billion were made, but some are super rare and can be worth a fortune today!
Here are 5 of the most valuable Bicentennial quarters to look out for in your pocket change.
1976-S Silver Proof Quarter (PR70 Deep Cameo)
These were made in San Francisco with 40% silver and look shiny with a frosted image. Only the best-graded ones (PR70) are super valuable.
- Made: About 4 million
- Value: Up to $19,200
- Why it’s rare: Silver content + top quality + perfect condition
1976-S No “S” Mintmark Proof Quarter
This is a huge mint mistake! Proof coins from San Francisco should have an “S” mark. A few were made without it.
- How many: Less than 20 known
- Value: Up to $20,000
- Why it’s rare: Missing mintmark on a special coin = jackpot!
1976-S Clad Proof Quarter (PR70 Deep Cameo)
These aren’t silver, but they’re proof coins with a super shiny finish and strong details.
- Value: $79 to $154 in perfect grade
- Why it’s rare: High-quality and mirror-like finish = collector favorite
1976 Quarter with Prooflike Finish (Error)
Some quarters were mistakenly made to look like proofs, even though they weren’t supposed to.
- Value: Up to $12,000
- Why it’s rare: Accidental shiny finish makes them stand out
1976 Quarter with Wide Rim Error
This error gives the coin a thick rim. It happened due to a striking mistake.
- Value: Up to $10,000
- Why it’s rare: Unique mint error + collector demand
Other Quarters That Can Be Valuable
| Type | Possible Value |
|---|---|
| 1976 MS65-MS68 regular coins | $6 to several thousand |
| Silver Bicentennial in MS69 | Up to $19,200 |
| Doubled die/error coins | Hundreds to thousands |
What Makes Bicentennial Quarters Valuable?
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Mint Errors | Rare mistakes are worth big bucks |
| Proof Finish | Mirror shine = collector’s dream |
| Silver Content | Silver is valuable on its own |
| High Grade | Perfect coins are super rare |
| Unique Errors | Wide rims, no mintmarks, etc. |
Conclusion
Most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are worth just 25 cents—but not all! Some rare types, like the silver proofs, no-mintmark errors, and odd-looking finishes, can be worth thousands. So, check your change! You might be holding a coin worth more than your whole wallet.
FAQ’s
Q1: Are all 1976 Bicentennial quarters valuable?
No, most are only worth 25 cents. Only rare errors or high-grade coins are worth more.
Q2: How can I tell if my Bicentennial quarter is silver?
Check the edge—silver quarters have a solid silver edge with no copper stripe.
Q3: Where is the mint mark on a Bicentennial quarter?
It’s on the front of the coin, to the right of Washington’s ponytail.
