The Bicentennial Quarter was produced in 1976 to commemorate America’s bicentennial anniversary, celebrating 200 years of America’s independence. The coin continues to be in wide circulation even today.
Recently, a rumor has circulated that a Bicentennial Quarter is worth as much as $50 million. Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? But is it true? In this article, we will take a look at whether or not the rumor is true, see why the value of a coin can be boosted, and discover how to tell if you possess a valuable coin.
Bicentennial Quarter Features
The Bicentennial Quarter’s design makes it distinct from other coins:
- Obverse: The familiar portrait of George Washington on the coin front.
- Reverse design: A colonial drummer boy surrounded by 13 stars, representing America’s 13 original colonies.
- Dual Date: Inscribed “1776-1976”, representing America’s Bicentennial.
These quarters were produced in three different mints:
- Philadelphia Mint: No mint mark.
- Denver Mint: ‘D’ mint mark.
- San Francisco Mint: ‘S’ mint mark, with some coins containing 40% silver.
Does a $50 million Bicentennial Quarter Really Exist?

Some websites state that a rare Bicentennial quarter is worth as much as $50 million. But there is no evidence to prove this.
Reputable auction houses and coin dealers have debunked this myth. No Bicentennial quarter has ever sold for this kind of money. The record sales of this coin have been much lower than that.
What Drives the Value of a Bicentennial Quarter?
Even if the $50 million statement is not true, there are some attributes that can render a Bicentennial quarter valuable:
- Mint Errors: In case a coin is double-strike, off-center struck, or minted in an improper metal, its worth can go up.
- High-Grade Condition: Coins that are in minimal wear and have been graded MS67 or higher by professional grading agencies (like PCGS or NGC) are more valuable.
- Silver Composition: Coins containing 40% silver, made by the San Francisco Mint, are more valuable compared to the standard copper-nickel composite coins.
Some Bicentennial Quarters That Sold High
Some Bicentennial quarters have sold for remarkable amounts at auctions:
Coin Description | Grade | Auction Price | Sale Year |
---|---|---|---|
1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter (Business Strike) | MS69 | $19,200 | 2019 |
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Printed on Dime-Sized Plate) | MS62 | $9,200 | 2020 |
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Error) | MS66 | $8,400 | 2023 |
How to Identify if Your Bicentennial Quarter Is Valuable
If you have a Bicentennial quarter, pay attention to the following points:
- Check for flaws: Any irregularity on the coin, like a double-strike or off-center strike, can raise its worth.
- Look for a mint mark: Silver coins minted by the San Francisco Mint (‘S’ mint mark) are usually more valuable.
- Evaluate condition: Coins with minimal wear and a shiny surface may be more expensive.
- Consult an expert: If you suspect your coin may be valuable, have it appraised by a certified grading service or an experienced coin collector.
Conclusion
The tale of the $50 million Bicentennial quarter is interesting, but it must be supported by facts. Up to now, there is no proof that a Bicentennial quarter has been sold for that amount.
Some particular Bicentennial quarters, particularly those with mint errors, higher grades, or more silver content, can sell at a high price.
So, check your coins carefully—you might have a valuable and scarce Bicentennial quarter!
FAQs
Q1. Is the Bicentennial Quarter really worth $50 million?
No, there is no verified sale of a Bicentennial Quarter for $50 million. This claim is a myth without credible evidence.
Q2. What makes a Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
Factors like minting errors, high-grade condition (MS67 or higher), and silver composition (40% silver from San Francisco Mint) can increase its value.
Q3. How can I check if my Bicentennial Quarter is valuable?
Look for minting errors, check the mint mark, assess its condition, and consult a professional grading service for an accurate evaluation.
Q4. What is the highest recorded price for a Bicentennial Quarter?
The highest recorded sale was $19,200 for a 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter graded MS69 in 2019.
Q5. Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial Quarter?
You can sell it through reputable auction houses, online numismatic marketplaces, or certified coin dealers.