The world of coin collecting is full of exciting finds, but few coins have captured the imagination of collectors like the Bicentennial Quarters.
Released in 1976 to mark the 200th anniversary of America’s independence, these special coins have become highly prized over the years.
Some of these quarters are now valued at over $5 million due to their rarity, condition, and historical importance. Let’s explore five of the most extraordinary Bicentennial Quarters and discover why they’re so valuable.
The Double Die Obverse Quarter
Estimated Value: $5.5 Million
One of the most fascinating coins in the Bicentennial series is the Double Die Obverse Quarter. This coin has a noticeable error—doubling on the obverse side, particularly around the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date.
The doubling happened because the die used to stamp the coin was misaligned. Although the error is subtle, it significantly boosts the coin’s value.
Collectors treasure this coin because it’s rare and identifying the error requires precision. Its worth is estimated at over $5.5 million.
The Off-Center Strike Quarter
Estimated Value: $5.2 Million
Another rare find is the Off-Center Strike Quarter. This coin was struck 15% off-center during production, creating a unique appearance with part of the design missing and the rest unusually prominent.
This error makes the quarter incredibly rare. In addition to its eye-catching design, the coin is in excellent condition, which has driven its value up to around $5.2 million. It’s a prized piece in many high-end coin collections.
The Overstruck Quarter
Estimated Value: $5.8 Million
The Overstruck Quarter is a true numismatic oddity. This coin was mistakenly struck over a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar, resulting in a fascinating mix of designs and inscriptions from both coins.
Its rarity and the story behind its creation have elevated its value to an astounding $5.8 million. For collectors, this quarter is a symbol of the unexpected treasures that can arise from the minting process.
The Full Drum Lines Quarter
Estimated Value: $5.1 Million
The Full Drum Lines Quarter is celebrated for its exceptional detail and near-perfect condition. The reverse of this Bicentennial Quarter features a colonial drummer, and this particular coin shows clear, sharp drum lines—a rarity in the series.
The sharpness of the image and the overall pristine state of the coin make it an extraordinary find. Due to these qualities, the coin’s value exceeds $5.1 million.
The San Francisco Mint Proof Error Quarter
Estimated Value: $5.3 Million
The San Francisco Mint Proof Error Quarter is a one-of-a-kind collector’s item. Though it was supposed to be a proof coin (a coin made for collectors with a mirror-like finish), it was mistakenly struck with a regular circulated finish.
This unique combination of proof-like design and ordinary texture has made it extremely rare. Today, this quarter is valued at around $5.3 million, making it a significant piece in coin collecting.
The Bicentennial Quarter series not only commemorates a key moment in American history but also offers exciting opportunities for collectors. These five quarters, each with its own story, rarity, and unique characteristics, are the crown jewels of this collection.
With a combined value of over $25 million, they highlight the enduring allure and significance of Bicentennial Quarters. For collectors, the search for these rare treasures continues to be both captivating and rewarding.
1. Why are Bicentennial Quarters so valuable?
Bicentennial Quarters are valuable due to their rarity, unique errors during production, and their historical significance, making them sought after by collectors.
2. What is a Double Die Obverse Quarter?
A Double Die Obverse Quarter features a minting error where the die misalignment causes doubling in certain areas, increasing its value.
3. How much is an Off-Center Strike Quarter worth?
An Off-Center Strike Quarter can be worth around $5.2 million due to its rarity and unusual design, created by an error during the minting process.
4. What makes the Overstruck Quarter special?
The Overstruck Quarter was accidentally struck over a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar, creating a rare blend of designs, increasing its value to $5.8 million.
5. What is the significance of the Full Drum Lines Quarter?
The Full Drum Lines Quarter has exceptionally sharp detail on the drum featured on its reverse side, making it a rare and valuable coin worth over $5.1 million.