5 Rare Bicentennial Quarters Worth Over $101 Million in 2025 – Still Possibly in Circulation

In 2025, collectors and casual hobbyists alike are turning their attention to one of the most iconic coins in American history—the Bicentennial Quarter. Minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, these quarters featured a special reverse design with a colonial drummer and dual date “1776–1976.” While millions were produced, a handful of them feature rare errors and variations that make them worth millions of dollars today.

Even more incredible? Some of these coins are still believed to be in circulation. Let’s break down the five rare Bicentennial Quarter coins that, together, are worth a staggering $101 million—and how you might recognize one if you’re lucky enough to find it.

1. 1976 No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter – Worth Up to $40 Million

This coin is one of the holy grails in U.S. coin collecting. Typically, proof coins minted in San Francisco have an “S” mint mark. However, a small batch of Bicentennial Quarters was mistakenly struck without it. Only 15 to 20 verified examples of this error exist today.

One of these coins previously sold for $180,000, and collectors now estimate that a perfect, uncirculated version could command up to $40 million.

How to Spot It:

• Brilliant proof finish with mirror-like surfaces
• Double date “1776–1976”
• Missing “S” mint mark beneath Washington’s neck
• Exceptional clarity and edge definition

If you suspect you have one, submit it to NGC or PCGS for authentication immediately.

2. 1976 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Bicentennial Quarter – Estimated at $25 Million

The Doubled Die Obverse error is caused by a misalignment during the die creation process, where the design is impressed twice at slightly different angles. This results in visible doubling, especially in the “LIBERTY” inscription and Washington’s profile.

These are rare but not unheard of, and high-grade examples have sold for up to $80,000. Experts believe a flawless, top-graded DDO Bicentennial Quarter could command as much as $25 million in today’s market.

What to Look For:

• Clear doubling in “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date
• Doubling in the eyes and hair details of Washington’s portrait
• Use a 10x magnifier for accurate identification

3. Transitional Silver Planchet Error Bicentennial Quarter – Valued at $15 Million

This error resulted when the mint accidentally used leftover 40% silver planchets from proof coinage in a batch meant for circulation strikes, which typically used copper-nickel clad. Only around 180 examples of this mistake are known, making it one of the most interesting transitional errors in U.S. coinage.

These hybrid coins have sold for over $35,000, and numismatic analysts suggest a perfect example may reach $15 million due to its extreme rarity and historical significance.

Identification Tips:

• Heavier than regular quarters (6.25 grams vs. 5.67 grams)
• Missing “S” mint mark despite a proof-like finish
• A slightly different tone due to silver content
• Verify composition with a specific gravity test or XRF analysis

4. 1976 “Pulsar Quasar” Die Break Error – Worth $11 Million in High Grade

Nicknamed the “Pulsar Quasar” quarter due to its radial die break pattern, this error causes raised lines to radiate from the center of the coin like a starburst. These die cracks make the coin not only visually unique but also extremely collectible.

Less than 200 known examples exist, with sales reaching $25,000 for circulated examples. A perfect coin could skyrocket in value, with experts estimating a potential worth of $11 million.

Spot This Coin By:

• Lines radiating outward from the center (obverse and/or reverse)
• The lines must be part of the original strike, not scratches or post-mint damage
• Sharp design details elsewhere on the coin

5. 1976 “Drum Major” Clashed Die Error – Estimated Value: $10 Million

The final coin on this elite list features a clashed die error, where the reverse die picked up a partial image of Washington’s profile—usually seen on the obverse. When these dies strike coins without a planchet between them, part of the obverse transfers to the reverse. The result? Washington’s face ghosting through the colonial drummer design, making him appear like a “drum major.”

Roughly 350–400 of these errors are known, and while not as rare as others, they remain a top-tier error coin. Auction prices have reached $8,000, and pristine specimens could fetch up to $10 million.

How to Identify:

• Subtle outlines of Washington’s head on the drummer’s hat
• Visible under magnification on the reverse side
• Distinct clash lines with no post-mint damage

Final Thoughts: Could You Be Holding One?

It’s wild to think that some of these life-changing quarters could still be in bank rolls, pocket change, or old jars sitting in your garage. Although the odds are slim, it’s not impossible—especially if you’re willing to take the time to look.

Tips for Collectors & Treasure Hunters:

• Always check both sides and edges of coins
• Invest in a good magnifier and coin scale
• Store finds safely and avoid handling them directly
• Consider submitting interesting finds to PCGS or NGC for grading

In 2025, coin collecting has grown from a niche hobby to a global movement, driven by social media, expert YouTube channels, and massive auction results. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or simply curious, it might be time to dig through your change and see if your fortune is already in your hands.

You don’t need to be a millionaire to find a million-dollar coin—just someone with an eye for detail and a bit of luck.