The 1976 Bicentennial quarter is an everyday coin for many, but a few specific varieties and errors can be worth far more than face value. This guide explains four rare varieties, how to identify them, and realistic value ranges based on condition and authentication.
How to read 1976 Bicentennial Quarter values
Value depends mainly on variety, condition, and market demand. Common circulated Bicentennial quarters typically trade for face value to a few dollars. Varieties or errors that are scarce or in high grade can sell for hundreds or thousands.
Always verify a potential find with a reputable grading service (PCGS, NGC) or an experienced dealer before assuming rarity.
4 rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarter varieties worth checking
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter (40% Silver)
Identification: Look for an S mintmark and proof finish. The special silver proof quarters were struck in 40% silver and sold in U.S. Mint silver proof sets in 1976.
- Key features: Mirror fields with frosted devices, sharp details, and an S mintmark.
- Why it’s valuable: Silver content plus lower surviving quantities in high grade make these more collectible than clad business strikes.
Estimated values (approximate): A typical graded PR65 might sell for $20–$60. Higher grades (PR67–PR69) can reach several hundred dollars, and exceptional PR70 pieces command premium prices.
2. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) on 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
Identification: Look for obvious doubling on letters such as LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date. Doubling appears as a second set of letters or numerals offset from the original.
- Key features: Clear, mirror-image or offset doubling that affects multiple letters or date numerals.
- Why it’s valuable: Strong doubled dies are popular with collectors and can be scarce for specific dates.
Estimated values: Minor doubling in lower grades may add $20–$100. Strong, authenticated DDOs in high uncirculated grades may fetch $100–$1,000 depending on market interest and grade.
3. Wrong Planchet or Struck on Silver Planchet Errors
Identification: Coins struck on the wrong metal will often look different in color and weight. A clad quarter struck on a 40% silver planchet will be slightly different in hue and heavier when precisely weighed.
- Key features: Unusual color, edge differences, and weight inconsistencies compared to standard clad quarters.
- Why it’s valuable: Wrong-planchet strikes are true minting errors and are rare. Confirming silver content or planchet origin raises value substantially.
Estimated values: Verified wrong-planchet silver strikes can sell from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on rarity and verification.
4. Repunched or Overmintmark Varieties (RPM / Overmintmark)
Identification: Examine the mintmark closely—especially the D or S. Repunched mintmarks show remnants of a previous impression; overmintmarks show a smaller or misaligned mintmark over another.
- Key features: Visible traces of a second mintmark, doubling or shadow around the main mintmark.
- Why it’s valuable: Some RPMs and overmintmark varieties are scarce and have strong collector followings. Value varies by clarity and rarity.
Estimated values: Common RPMs may add modest premiums ($20–$100). Striking or well-documented RPMs graded and authenticated can reach several hundred dollars.
The Bicentennial quarter reverse design featuring the colonial drummer was used only for 1975–1976 coinage as part of the United States bicentennial celebration. No regular-issue Washington quarter in circulation carries that reverse outside this period.
How to inspect and authenticate a potential rarity
Start with a careful visual inspection using a loupe (5x–10x). Look for doubling, mintmark anomalies, and unusual surfaces. Check weight and diameter against known specifications. Photograph both sides under good light.
If you believe you have a rare variety, have the coin authenticated and graded by a professional third-party service before selling or listing. Grading adds buyer confidence and typically increases realized value.
Practical tips for identification
- Use consistent lighting and a loupe to check lettering and mintmarks.
- Compare with high-resolution reference photos from PCGS or NGC variety databases.
- Weigh suspicious coins on a precise scale (0.01 g accuracy) to detect wrong planchet strikes.
- Document findings with clear photos and notes on observed features.
Small real-world case study
A collector in Ohio bought a mixed lot of circulated coins at an estate sale for $20. Among them was a sharp-looking 1976-S quarter. After careful inspection, the collector found the prooflike mirror fields and an S mintmark, and submitted the coin to a grading service. The silver proof graded PR67 and later sold at a local auction for $420. The difference between the initial purchase price and final sale shows the value of spotting and authenticating varieties.
Selling and insuring your 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
If authenticated and graded, sell through reputable auction houses, specialist dealers, or major online auction platforms that accept graded coins. For very valuable pieces, consider consignment with an established auction house to reach serious buyers.
Insure high-value coins properly. Use documented appraisals and keep graded slabs or certification paperwork in a secure location.
Final checklist before you act
- Compare suspected variety with reference photos and variety guides.
- Weigh and measure to detect wrong-planchet strikes.
- Document and photograph both sides clearly.
- Get professional authentication and grading for high-value candidates.
- Choose a reputable selling channel depending on rarity and grade.
Careful inspection, reference comparison, and professional authentication are the keys to unlocking value in 1976 Bicentennial quarter varieties. If you suspect you have one of the rarer types above, seek expert verification before selling or bidding.