Rare Bicentennial Quarter Valued at Nearly $25K — Plus 4 Coins Worth Over $1,000 Each

Introduction

You might have hidden treasures sitting in your pocket change right now. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is a remarkable piece of American coin history, with certain rare versions selling for astronomical prices in today’s market. One exceptional coin, featuring a distinct double die error on the front, has reached an incredible value of nearly $25,000.

These special quarters were made to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary and have captured the interest of collectors worldwide. The combination of historical importance, unique minting mistakes, and limited availability has turned these coins from everyday money into highly desired collectibles.

But it’s not just the Bicentennial Quarter that holds value in the world of rare coin collecting. Several other quarters from different years have also reached values over $1,000, making them valuable additions to any serious collection. By understanding what makes a coin valuable – such as mint marks, production errors, and preservation condition – you can discover potential treasures in your own collection.

The Rarity and Value of the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is an important part of American coin history. It has a unique design that shows a colonial drummer on the back, along with a victory torch and 13 stars representing the original colonies. The front side features George Washington’s portrait with the dates “1776-1976” to commemorate the country’s 200th anniversary.

The Double Die Obverse (DDO) Error

One particular version of this quarter has caught the interest of collectors – the Double Die Obverse (DDO) error. This rare minting mistake happens during the process of creating the hub and die, resulting in a noticeable doubling of design elements on the front face of the coin. On these valuable coins, you can clearly see doubling in Washington’s eyelids, lips, and the words “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

Recent Auction Prices for DDO Coins

Recent auction data shows impressive prices for this error coin:

• MS-65 grade specimens have sold for $21,000-$24,800
• MS-63 examples regularly command $15,000-$18,000
• Even circulated specimens in EF-40 condition fetch $5,000-$7,000

Limited Certification and Growing Demand

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) has certified fewer than 100 examples of this DDO variant, which adds to its high market value. Both error coin specialists and Bicentennial Quarter collectors are driving up prices steadily. Recent sales indicate a strong demand for these coins at specialized numismatic auctions.

Other Valuable Quarters Worth Over $1,000

While the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter stands out for its exceptional value, several other quarters command prices exceeding $1,000. These rare coins represent significant milestones in American numismatic history.

1. 1932-D Washington Quarter

The 1932-D Washington Quarter is one of the most valuable quarters ever minted. This coin marked the first year of the Washington Quarter series, created to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday.

Key Features:

• Mintage of only 436,800 pieces
• Denver mint mark (“D”) on reverse
• 90% silver composition
• Features John Flanagan’s iconic Washington design

The extremely low mintage number makes this quarter particularly valuable. The Great Depression led to reduced coin production, creating scarcity that drives today’s high values. In mint state (MS) condition, these quarters can fetch $4,000 to $15,000.

Finding Tips:

• Check date and mint mark combinations carefully
• Look for authentic wear patterns
• Examine coins from old family collections
• Focus on reputable coin dealers and certified auctions
• Verify authenticity through professional grading services

The value increases significantly with grade quality. MS-65 specimens have sold for over $10,000 at recent auctions. Even circulated examples in Fine condition can bring $200-$300.

The coin’s rarity comes from its historical context – many were released into circulation during the Depression era when collecting wasn’t a priority for most Americans. This circumstance led to fewer preserved specimens, especially in higher grades.

2. 1932-S Washington Quarter

The 1932-S Washington Quarter is a true numismatic treasure with only 408,000 pieces minted – a remarkably low number compared to the 436,800 coins produced at the Denver mint. This San Francisco mint production holds exceptional value, particularly in mint state grades.

A pristine MS-65 grade 1932-S quarter can command prices exceeding $8,500, while even circulated examples in VF-20 condition sell for around $200. The coin’s scarcity stems from the Great Depression era, when many Americans couldn’t afford to collect coins, leading to widespread circulation and wear.

You can identify authentic 1932-S quarters by:

• Looking for the “S” mintmark below the eagle on the reverse
• Checking for proper weight (6.25 grams)
• Examining the coin’s silver content (90%)
• Verifying the distinctive strike characteristics of San Francisco mint coins

Professional grading services have certified fewer MS-65 1932-S quarters than their Denver counterparts, making high-grade examples particularly valuable to serious collectors. The coin’s historical significance, paired with its limited availability, creates strong demand in the numismatic market.

3. 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter

The 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter is a great example of wartime coinage, made with 90% silver, which makes it especially valuable to collectors. This quarter can be worth over $1,000 in perfect condition because of its historical importance and precious metal content.

Factors That Affect Its Value

The value of the 1942-S Silver Washington Quarter is influenced by several key factors:

• Silver Content: The coin’s 90% silver composition adds inherent precious metal value
• Strike Quality: Many specimens show weak strikes, making well-struck examples rare
• Mint State Grade: MS65 or higher grades command premium prices
• Surface Preservation: Original mint luster significantly impacts value

The San Francisco mint produced these quarters during World War II, when silver supplies were crucial for the war effort. This historical context, combined with the difficulty of finding high-grade specimens, has created strong demand among serious collectors. The most sought-after examples display sharp strike details on Liberty’s head and the eagle’s feathers, with minimal contact marks or wear patterns.

4. 1950-D/S Over mintmark Washington Quarter

The 1950-D/S Over mintmark Washington Quarter is a fascinating example of a mint error that dramatically increases a coin’s value. This rare quarter features a distinct D mintmark struck directly over an S mintmark – a mistake that occurred when the Denver Mint accidentally used a die originally prepared for San Francisco.

You can identify this valuable error by examining the mintmark under magnification. The D appears to be “fighting” with the S beneath it, creating a unique hybrid appearance. Recent auction results show specimens in MS-65 condition fetching prices between $1,200 and $1,500.

The rarity of this error comes from how few have been found. Many examples were released into circulation before anyone noticed the mistake, making high-grade specimens particularly scarce. Professional grading services have certified fewer than 100 examples in mint state condition.

Key Identification Points:

• Look for a distorted D mintmark
• Check for traces of an S visible underneath
• Examine the area around the mintmark for signs of doubling
• Verify authenticity through professional grading services

5. 1964-D Double Die Reverse Washington Quarter

The 1964-D Double Die Reverse Washington Quarter is a perfect example of a mint error that collectors find fascinating. This is the rare version. Observe the doubling on the back side, particularly on the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”

Recent Auction Prices

Specimens in MS-65 grade have sold for between $1,200 and $1,800. The higher the grade, the higher is the price, and even the finest pieces have sold for more than $2,500. A very exceptional example sold for $3,200 in 2022.

What Makes This Error Special

What makes this error unique:

• Visual Impact: The impression of the doubling is loud and catching to the eyes.
• Historical Significance: It is the last year with 90% silver quarters
• Rarity Condition: Only fewer than 400 specimens exist
• Grade Sensitivity: Grades rise dramatically quickly since it retains

How Collectors Identify This Variety

Collected Specimens: Collectors collect through magnification lens to have a look at the phrase on the reverse, identifying carefully the space between and resolution of doubled details. In its best specimens, separate the primary from the images secondary.

Understanding Coin Grading and Its Impact on Value

The value of your rare quarters depends on its condition. It is graded according to a standardized scale that ranges from 1 to 70. Here is the numerical system grading by professional services in evaluating coins:

• Poor (P-1) Barely recognizable coins due to extreme wear
• Good (G-4 to G-6) A significant portion of the design elements is visible but highly worn
• Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35) Moderate wear; details are clear
• Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45) Light wear at the high points
• Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Some wear, still shows considerable luster
• Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No wear, with imperfect to pristine

The Professional Coin Grading Service is the leader in the coin authentication and grading industry. The certification of your coins through PCGS will increase their value by:

• Guaranteeing authenticity, so you can be sure it’s not a counterfeit
• Tamper-evident holders that protect the condition of your coins
• Standardized grading, which provides consistency in valuations
• Increased market acceptance, so the buyer is more confident

A Bicentennial Quarter graded MS-65 by PCGS will attract 10 times more value than an uncirculated one. The company preserves a database of certified coins that creates a reliable document of rarity and condition that influences prices in the market directly.

For instance, the difference between MS-65 and MS-66 grades can be worth thousands of dollars, especially with rare varieties like the 1976 Double Die Obverse Bicentennial Quarter. If you are curious about the value of your quarter in the 1776 to 1976 period, you may need this coin value checker.

Tips for Collectors to Find Valuable Coins

A strategic plan and keen observation build a valuable coin collection. Here is how you will find hidden treasures:

1. Research Before You Buy

• Learn about varieties of coins, mint marks, and common errors associated with your target coins
• Participate in online forums dedicated to coin collecting and learn from experienced collectors
• Subscribe to newsletters on numismatics to get current market updates and price trends

2. Essential Tools for Coin Hunting

• Invest in a quality magnifying glass with a 10x-20x magnification
• Acquire a reliable coin scale for weighing
• Buy a digital caliper for measurement

3. Prime Hunting Locations

• Local coin shops and antique stores
• Estate sales and garage sales
• Online auction sites
• Bank rolls and loose change

4. Digital Resources for Price Verification

• PCGS Price Guide – Actual market value
• NGC Price Guide – Complete coin collection
• Heritage Auctions – Previous auction sales

5. Red Flags to Watch

• Very low price for the numismatic item
• The seller is not offering clear pictures.
• The mint marks are removed or altered
• Measurements or weights are different

Keep a record of your finds as well as the transactions. Good photos of your coins document their grade, too, and will make an authentication process down the road much easier.

Conclusion

Rare coin collecting offers unending possibilities in discovery and investment. Your next quarter can be worth thousands of dollars, just like the magnificent $25,000 Bicentennial Quarter. Start examining your coins today, connect with experienced collectors, and jump into resources on numismatics research.

Be a part of or attend shows in local coin collecting groups and discover online communities of fellow coin collectors. With these opportunities, you should be able to make quite good contacts that will have you going home with fine discoveries and treasures. Chasing for that rarest mint error or elusive date mark has brought so much more excitement that makes coin hunting worth it all.

Conclusion: Each coin has an interesting history, and, who knows, maybe that of yours is worth what’s over its face. Happy hunting!

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