These 8 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Are Worth More Than You Think – A Harley Davidson Comparison

The Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most recognizable pieces of American currency. Minted in 1975-1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence, these quarters feature the dual date “1776-1976” on the obverse, along with a unique reverse design by Jack L. Ahr depicting a Colonial Drummer. Most of the Bicentennial Quarters were minted in huge quantities for general circulation, but some rare varieties and errors made some of these coins very pricey—almost like a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Here are the eight rarest and most expensive Bicentennial Quarters.

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1. Silver Proof PF70 Ultra Cameo

Made from 40% silver, Bicentennial quarters were struck at the San Francisco Mint. Ultra Cameo refers to an appearance where relief is clearly delineated from mirror fields’ reflectivity. Those coins graded PF70 are deemed flawless and hence fetch a premium price among collectors. >

Price: $7,000–$10,000 or more
Characteristics: Extremely well preserved with a high brilliance and rich contrast, a collector’s delight.

2. MS68 Denver Mint

The Denver Mint only minted millions of Bicentennial Quarters, and it is quite rare to find one in near-perfect MS68 condition. At this grade, the coins are expected to have high-quality surfaces, full luster, and no visible flaws.

Price: $6,000–$8,000
Features: The distinct striking details, well-defined features, and exceptional luster make these quarters valuable pieces for collections.

3. Double Die Obverse Error

A double die error is when the design elements of the coin, such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST,” appear doubled because of a misalignment during minting. >

Price: $2,000 to $10,000
Features: Extremely popular among error collectors because of the unique doubling effect on the obverse text.

4. Silver Business Strike MS69

Against the proof coins, business strike coins were minted for circulation purposes. However, a few silver coins minted in San Francisco have been graded as near-perfect MS69, and they are extremely scarce.

Price: $7,500+

Description: The coins have sharp details and an untouched surface. Their admiring collectors love them.

5. Off-Center Strike

The off-center strike errors happen when the coin blank, known as planchet, is not caught in the right position. Because of this, a part of the design gets missing from the coin.

Price: $1,000 to $5,000

Characteristics: These special errors make each off-center quarter unique, and thus, so much more in demand.

6. Wrong Planchet Coins

Sometimes, a Bicentennial Quarter was accidentally minted on the planchet of another denomination, like a nickel or dime.

Price: $5,000–$15,000
Characteristics: These coins are extremely valuable due to their rarity and the distinctive look from the wrong metal composition.

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7. Clipped Planchet

A clipped planchet error is when a portion of the metal blank is missing before striking, creating a curved or irregular edge.

Price: $500–$3,000
Characteristics: The unique strike makes these coins a great find for collectors who specialize in mint errors.

8. Coins Struck on Silver Planchets

Sometimes, a Bicentennial Quarter was mistakenly minted on a silver planchet meant for another coin series. These are among the most valuable of all Bicentennial Quarters.

Price: $10,000–$20,000
Characteristics: Extremely popular among numismatists, these quarters are highly prized for their unique composition of silver and rarity.

Conclusion

But indeed, these 8 rare Bicentennial quarters bring value far beyond people’s imagination. They look just like regular coins unless it is realized the rarity attached, and the level of demand on the collector’s market that is placing their value so high. Some quarters bring a price as high as selling a Harley Davidson, which brings a surprise to most people. Be an enthusiast coin collector, or still looking to enter, keeping watch of these Bicentennial quarters may become smart investment ideas as they shine a light outcompeting a mere Harley Davidson through the sheer relevance of unique historic currency nowadays.