The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter commemorated the 200th anniversary of American independence and featured a distinctive drummer-boy reverse design.
While most circulated coins remain worth face value, certain rare error or high-grade silver varieties have skyrocketed in value.
The most astonishing among them is valued at nearly $45 million—making it one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. quarters ever discovered.
Top-Valued Bicentennial Quarters
Below is a summary table of the five most valuable Bicentennial Quarters, including the eye-popping $45 million rarity and four others worth over $20,000:
| Rank | Variant | Mint Mark / Type | Grade / Error | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unique Prototype Silver Quarter | Philadelphia Pattern, silver proof | Specimen | ~$45,000,000 |
| 2 | 1976‑S Silver Business Strike | San Francisco | MS 69 | $19,200 – $45,000+ |
| 3 | 1976‑D Clad Doubled‑Die Obverse | Denver | MS 66 DDO | ~$8,400 |
| 4 | Dime Planchet Strike on Quarter | Philadelphia | MS 62 | $9,200 |
| 5 | 1976‑S Clad Proof Deep Cameo | San Francisco | PR 70 DCAM | $6,038 |
1. Prototype Silver Quarter – Worth Nearly $45 Million
A one-of-a-kind silver pattern struck at Philadelphia, these prototype Bicentennial quarters were not part of the regular issue.
Experts estimate its value at around $45 million, based on its extraordinary rarity and importance in U.S. numismatic history.
2. 1976‑S Silver Business Strike – High-Grade Gem
The 1976‑S Silver Business Strike, minted in San Francisco, features 40% silver content and a drummer-boy reverse.
Although around 5 million were struck, only a small handful have reached MS 69 condition. These gems have sold for around $19,200, with some rumored to fetch up to $45,000+ in top-tier form
3. 1976‑D Clad Doubled‑Die Obverse (DDO) – Mint Error Treasure
A rare doubled‑die obverse Bicentennial quarter from Denver, graded MS 66, has sold for about $8,400 at auction. Doubling on the date or inscriptions makes it highly sought after by error collectors.
4. Dime Planchet Struck on Quarter – Error Coin
Another standout error is the quarter struck on a dime planchet. One MS 62 example sold for $9,200 in December 2020. These “off‑metal” strikes occur when the wrong blank is used during minting.
5. 1976‑S Clad Proof Deep Cameo – Collector Favorite
The 1976‑S Clad Proof Deep Cameo quarter, graded PR 70 DCAM, captured collector interest with a sale price of $6,038. Deep cameo contrast enhances the design’s aesthetic appeal
Why These Quarters Are So Valuable
- Extremely low population in top grades: MS 69 and PR 70 grades are rare, especially for silver strikes.
- Metal content: Silver business strikes (40% silver) are inherently more valuable than clad coins.
- Mint errors and proofs: Doubled dies, wrong planchets and deep cameos add major premiums.
- Historical significance: Prototype and pattern coins are documents of minting evolution.
While most Bicentennial Quarters are ordinary and hold face value, a select few—driven by metal type, minting grade, or rare errors—have exceeded $20,000, with one near $45 million.
If you uncover an unusual variant in your collection, it’s well worth professional evaluation.
FAQs
Could I realistically own a $45 million quarter?
Unlikely. The prototype is unique and would require a private or institutional sale at that level—something rare in numismatics.
How do I know if my quarter is silver or clad?
Check the mint mark: “S” indicates San Francisco. Use a precious-metal tester or scale for composition—silver business strikes are heavier.
What should I do if I suspect an error coin?
Have it graded by a professional service (e.g., PCGS or NGC). Document the error and condition; properly graded, it may be worth thousands or tens of thousands.