A rare 1976 Bicentennial quarter recently fetched nearly $20,000 at auction. Coin collectors and enthusiasts are excited about this valuable find. The Bicentennial quarter, featuring a special design to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, is usually worth just 25 cents. However, this particular coin has unique characteristics that make it extremely valuable.
What Makes This Bicentennial Quarter Special?
The rare Bicentennial quarter was minted in 1976. It features a dual date “1776-1976” on the obverse side. The reverse side has a special design with a colonial drummer boy. What makes this specific quarter so valuable is its pristine condition and a rare error. The coin was struck on a silver planchet instead of a copper-nickel one. This error is very uncommon, making the coin highly sought after by collectors.
How Was the Value Determined?
Experts graded the coin as MS67, which means it is in near-perfect condition. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) confirmed its rarity and high grade. Such coins can fetch thousands of dollars at auctions. This specific quarter went for nearly $20,000 due to its unique error and excellent condition.
Other Valuable Coins to Look Out For
While this Bicentennial quarter is making headlines, there are several other coins that can also be worth a lot of money. Here are seven more coins you should keep an eye out for:
1. 1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 copper penny is one of the most famous error coins. Most pennies in 1943 were made of steel to save copper for World War II. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly made. These can be worth up to $100,000.
2. 1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 double die penny is known for its doubled lettering on the obverse side. It’s one of the most popular error coins among collectors. A well-preserved coin can sell for around $1,800.
3. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter
Some 2004 Wisconsin state quarters have an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side. This small error can increase the coin’s value to about $300.
4. 1999 Wide “AM” Penny
The 1999 wide “AM” penny has more space between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. This error can make the penny worth around $500.
5. 1972 Double Die Penny
The 1972 double die penny features a noticeable doubling of the date and other elements on the obverse side. These coins can be worth around $300.
6. 1982 No Mint Mark Dime
Most dimes have a mint mark indicating where they were produced. However, some 1982 dimes were mistakenly made without a mint mark. These dimes can fetch around $300.
7. 1992 Close “AM” Penny
The 1992 close “AM” penny has the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” closer together than usual. This error can make the penny worth about $1,000.
Why Are Error Coins Valuable?
Error coins are valuable because they are rare. When a mistake happens at the mint, only a few coins with that error make it into circulation. Collectors prize these coins for their uniqueness and rarity. The condition of the coin also plays a significant role in its value. Coins in better condition are worth more.
How to Find Valuable Coins
If you want to find valuable coins, start by checking your pocket change. You might be surprised at what you can find. Look for unusual features like doubling, missing mint marks, or incorrect metals. You can also visit coin shops, flea markets, and estate sales. These places often have hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
John joined blainecountycruise as the Associate Games Editor in 2022. With a Journalism degree and four years of freelancing experience, she is your expert on everything from CoD and Apex Legends to Genshin Impact and Monster Hunter. You can reach her at [email protected].