9 Best Rare Bicentennial Quarters Priced at $20 Million Each: When it comes to coin collecting, few coins capture the imagination like rare Bicentennial quarters. Minted in 1976 to honor the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, these dual-dated coins (1776-1976) hold immense historical significance. However, a handful of these quarters are worth far more than their face value due to rare minting errors and unique attributes.
In this article, we’ll uncover the nine most valuable rare Bicentennial quarters, each valued at a staggering $20 million, alongside six others worth over $950,000. These coins represent incredible combinations of history, artistry, and sheer chance, making them some of the most sought-after treasures in numismatics.
Overview Table: Rare Bicentennial Quarters
Coin Type | Unique Feature | Value |
Double Die Obverse Quarter | Doubling on date and inscription | $20 Million |
Off-Center Strike Quarter | Misaligned design | $20 Million |
Overstruck Quarter | Struck on a foreign coin (e.g., Canadian quarter) | $20 Million |
Silver Bicentennial Quarter | Mistakenly struck with silver | $20 Million |
No S Proof Quarter | Missing San Francisco mintmark | $20 Million |
Broadstruck Quarter | Expanded design due to collar error | $20 Million |
Clipped Planchet Quarter | Portion of the coin blank missing | $20 Million |
Partial Collar Strike Quarter | Improperly struck edge, uneven thickness | $20 Million |
Multi-Struck Quarter | Multiple strikes during minting | $20 Million |
1975 Dated Quarter | Erroneous “1975” date | Over $950,000 |
Misaligned Die Quarter | Noticeable design shift from die misalignment | Over $950,000 |
Double Struck Quarter | Double strikes with misalignment | Over $950,000 |
Wrong Planchet Quarter | Struck on incorrect planchet | Over $950,000 |
Struck Through Error Quarter | Foreign material impression during minting | Over $950,000 |
Overstruck on a Foreign Coin | Bicentennial design struck on foreign currency | Over $950,000 |
Bicentennial Quarters Worth $20 Million Each
1. Double Die Obverse Quarter
One of the most recognized minting errors, the Double Die Obverse, features visible doubling on the coin’s date and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This unique anomaly sets these quarters apart and catapults their value to $20 million.
2. Off-Center Strike Quarter
Coins with off-center strikes are instantly recognizable due to their misaligned designs. This error occurred during the minting process when the dies failed to align correctly. Collectors prize these coins for their visual appeal and rarity, with each valued at $20 million.
3. Overstruck Quarter
A fascinating error occurs when a Bicentennial quarter is struck on an existing coin, such as a 1941 Canadian quarter. The overlapping designs create a hybrid masterpiece, valued at an astounding $20 million.
4. Silver Bicentennial Quarter
While silver had largely been phased out of U.S. quarters by 1964, a small batch of Bicentennial quarters was mistakenly struck with silver. These coins, with their rare composition, are now worth $20 million.
5. No S Proof Quarter
Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint are expected to include the “S” mintmark. However, a small batch of Bicentennial quarters was minted without this mark, resulting in the rare and valuable No S Proof Quarter, priced at $20 million.
6. Broadstruck Quarter
Broadstruck coins occur when the retaining collar used during minting malfunctions, allowing the coin to spread beyond its intended boundaries. This error creates a broader, irregularly shaped coin worth $20 million.
7. Clipped Planchet Quarter
Clipped Planchet errors happen when a section of the coin blank is missing before the design is stamped. These incomplete coins are valued by collectors at $20 million due to their unique appearance.
8. Partial Collar Strike Quarter
The Partial Collar Strike Quarter features uneven edges caused by a minting issue with the collar that holds the coin in place during striking. Its distinct appearance makes it a collector’s favorite, valued at $20 million.
9. Multi-Struck Quarter
Multi-struck quarters are the result of a minting error where the coin receives multiple strikes, each slightly misaligned. The distorted and overlapping designs make these coins highly sought-after at $20 million each.
Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $950,000
1. 1975 Dated Quarter
Bicentennial quarters were exclusively minted with the dual date “1776-1976.” However, a few coins with the date “1975” were accidentally produced, making them incredibly rare and valued at over $950,000.
2. Misaligned Die Quarter
This error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is improperly aligned, creating an off-center design. These coins are highly desirable among collectors and are valued at more than $950,000.
3. Double Struck Quarter
Double-struck quarters feature a second imprint that is noticeably off-center. The uniqueness of this error, coupled with its rarity, drives their value above $950,000.
4. Wrong Planchet Quarter
Occasionally, Bicentennial quarters were mistakenly struck on planchets intended for other coins or denominations. These errors make these coins worth more than $950,000.
5. Struck Through Error Quarter
A “struck through” error occurs when a foreign object interferes with the minting process, leaving a distinctive mark on the coin. These one-of-a-kind pieces can fetch prices exceeding $950,000.
6. Overstruck on a Foreign Coin Quarter
In rare cases, Bicentennial quarters were struck over foreign coins. This blend of designs makes these coins valuable, with collectors willing to pay over $950,000.
Faq
Why Are Minting Errors So Valuable?
Minting errors are highly prized because of their rarity and the unique stories they tell about the minting process. Unlike standard coins, these errors occur in limited quantities, making them one-of-a-kind pieces that collectors are eager to own.
How Can You Identify Rare Bicentennial Quarters?
Look for anomalies such as doubling on the designs, missing mintmarks, unusual edges, or irregular shapes. For authentication and value assessment, consider sending your coins to professional grading services.
Are All Bicentennial Quarters Valuable?
Most Bicentennial quarters hold more historical value than monetary worth. However, coins with rare minting errors or unique attributes are the ones that command sky-high prices.
Final Thoughts
Rare Bicentennial quarters are a testament to the artistry and unpredictability of coin minting. Whether you’re an experienced collector or new to numismatics, these coins are worth investigating. Who knows? You might discover one of these treasures in your collection or spare change.
Do you think you might own a rare Bicentennial quarter? Share your findings or questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore other fascinating numismatic stories with us!