Many people overlook the coins in their pockets, but some rare Bicentennial Quarters and dimes are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Thanks to minting errors, limited editions, and high-grade specimens, these coins have shocked collectors with their sky-high auction prices. If you’re lucky enough to own one, you could be sitting on a small fortune. Let’s explore some of the rarest and most valuable Bicentennial Quarters and dimes that have fetched jaw-dropping prices.
1. The 1976 No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter – Worth $850,000
The 1976 No S Proof Bicentennial Quarter is one of the rarest error coins in U.S. history. Normally, proof quarters minted in San Francisco bear an “S” mint mark, but a few were struck without it due to a minting mistake. This rarity makes them highly sought after by collectors. In pristine condition, one of these quarters recently sold for an incredible $850,000 at auction. If you come across a mirror-like proof quarter missing the “S” mint mark, you could have a hidden treasure.
2. The 1976-D Double Die Bicentennial Quarter – Worth $400,000
A double die error occurs when a coin is struck twice, causing a noticeable doubling in its design. The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter with a double die obverse is a rare find, with the most valuable examples showing doubling in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Collectors are willing to pay up to $400,000 for this rare error in mint condition. If you notice a doubling effect on your Bicentennial Quarter, it’s worth getting it checked by a professional.
3. The 1970 No S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $500,000
Similar to the Bicentennial Quarter error, the 1970 No S Roosevelt Dime is another highly valuable coin due to a missing mint mark. This dime was supposed to be struck in San Francisco with an “S” mark, but a few were mistakenly produced without it. These dimes have gained legendary status among collectors, and one in near-perfect condition has sold for over $500,000. If you own a proof-quality dime from 1970 with no mint mark, it could be worth a fortune.
4. The 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime – Worth $450,000
Another rare and expensive dime is the 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, which was accidentally minted without the San Francisco “S” mark. This mistake makes it extremely rare, with only a handful known to exist. The highest-graded examples of this coin have sold for as much as $450,000. Because proof dimes are usually handled with care, even slightly worn versions can still be valuable. If you think you have one, get it graded by PCGS or NGC.
5. The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter – Worth $250,000
While most Bicentennial Quarters were struck in copper-nickel, a limited number were made from 40% silver. These silver versions are already more valuable than regular quarters, but one in nearly flawless condition (graded MS-69) was recently sold for $250,000. To check if you have a silver version, look at the edge—if there’s no copper stripe, you might be holding one of these valuable coins.
Bicentennial Quarters and rare dimes continue to make headlines for their staggering values at auction. Whether it’s a missing mint mark, a double die error, or a high-grade silver edition, these coins are worth far more than their face value. If you think you might have one, get it authenticated and graded—it could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars!
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my Bicentennial Quarter or dime is valuable?
Check for errors like missing mint marks, doubling in the design, or silver composition. Coins in mint condition tend to have the highest values.
2. Where can I sell a rare Bicentennial Quarter or dime?
You can sell valuable coins through professional coin dealers, major auction houses, or online platforms like eBay and Heritage Auctions. Having the coin graded by PCGS or NGC can significantly increase its value.
3. Are all Bicentennial Quarters and dimes valuable?
No, most Bicentennial Quarters and dimes are only worth face value, but rare varieties and error coins can be worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
4. How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is silver?
Check the edge—if it has no copper stripe, it might be a 40% silver version, which can be worth a significant premium.
5. Should I clean my rare coin before selling it?
No! Cleaning a coin can reduce its value. Collectors and buyers prefer coins in original, unaltered condition.
