How Much Is a Centennial Quarter Worth?

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter commemorates the nation’s 200th anniversary. Unlike standard quarters, this coin features a distinctive design. While billions were produced, making most examples worth their face value, certain conditions or varieties can significantly increase their worth to collectors. Understanding these distinctions is key to recognizing a potentially valuable piece.

Identifying Your Bicentennial Quarter

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is recognizable by its unique design. The front, or obverse, of the coin retains George Washington’s portrait, but beneath it, the dual date “1776-1976” is prominently displayed. This dual dating distinguishes it from other Washington quarters.

Turning the coin over, the reverse side features a colonial drummer with a victory torch, encircled by thirteen stars, symbolizing the original colonies. This “Drummer Boy” design replaced the traditional eagle found on regular quarters. Mint marks are typically located near George Washington’s ponytail on the obverse. These include “P” for Philadelphia (often no mint mark), “D” for Denver, and “S” for San Francisco.

Coin composition also helps identify specific varieties. Most Bicentennial Quarters from Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) are copper-nickel clad, showing a visible copper stripe along their edge. However, some “S” mint mark quarters from San Francisco were struck in 40% silver. These silver versions lack a copper stripe and generally weigh slightly more, around 5.75 grams, compared to the 5.67 grams of their copper-nickel clad counterparts.

Key Factors Influencing Value

The value of a 1976 Bicentennial Quarter depends on its condition and unique characteristics. The state of preservation is important, with coins ranging from heavily circulated to uncirculated, or “mint state.” Professional coin grading services, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), assess a coin’s condition on a scale from Good to Mint State. Higher grades significantly increase value. For instance, a circulated Bicentennial Quarter might be worth around $0.30 to $0.85, while an uncirculated example could fetch up to $6,000.

Coins with an “S” mint mark from San Francisco, particularly those struck in 40% silver, are more valuable than their copper-nickel clad counterparts from Philadelphia or Denver. Millions of copper-nickel clad versions were produced, making them common. However, the silver “S” quarters were part of limited proof and uncirculated sets intended for collectors. For example, a 1976-S 40% silver proof quarter sold for $19,200 in 2019 due to its high grade and silver content. Even within the common clad issues, uncirculated examples from any mint can command higher prices, with a 1976-D MS68 clad quarter selling for $6,463 in 2017.

Production errors or die varieties can significantly boost a coin’s value, as these are rare and sought after by collectors. A key example is the 1976-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) error, where “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear doubled. This error occurs when the coin die is struck more than once, causing a double image. Such doubled die quarters can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars in good condition. Other errors like off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or quarters struck on a dime’s smaller metal can also lead to value increases.

Understanding Market Value and Selling

To determine the market value of your Bicentennial Quarter, consulting reputable coin price guides and online resources is a practical first step. Publications like the “Red Book” (A Guide Book of United States Coins) offer comprehensive pricing information. Online platforms, including specialized coin dealer websites and numismatic forums, provide insights, but it is important to focus on sold prices rather than just listed prices to get a realistic understanding of current market demand.

For coins believed to be in high grades or to possess rare errors, seeking a professional appraisal is advisable. Services like PCGS or NGC not only grade the coin but also authenticate its features, which can significantly impact its market desirability and price. The cost for such services can vary, typically ranging from $20 to $100 or more per coin, depending on the service level and declared value.

When considering selling your quarter, several options are available. Local coin dealers offer a direct and often quick sale, though they typically purchase coins at a wholesale price. Online marketplaces can reach a broader audience, potentially yielding higher prices, but require careful handling of shipping and buyer interactions. For rare or high-value pieces, coin shows or reputable auction houses may provide the best avenues for sale, as they cater to serious collectors.

Proper preservation of your coin is important to maintain its condition and value. Avoid cleaning coins, as this can cause irreversible damage and significantly decrease their worth. Instead, handle coins by their edges to prevent oils from your skin from transferring and store them in inert, archival-safe holders to protect them from environmental damage and physical wear.