Millions of coins circulate daily in the United States, most worth only their face value. However, some rare coins are valued at thousands or even millions of dollars by collectors. A specific 25-cent Bicentennial Quarter, the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter, is one such treasure. Let’s dive into why this coin is so special and how to identify it.
What Makes the 25-Cent Bicentennial Quarter So Valuable?
The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate 200 years of American independence. This coin is unique because of its dual dates, 1776-1976, and its design honoring the Bicentennial celebration.
However, a rare double-struck error variant of this coin is what makes it worth an astonishing $5 million. This minting mistake, where the design was stamped twice, resulted in a unique misalignment highly prized by collectors.
Key Features of the 25-Cent Bicentennial Quarter
To identify this potentially valuable coin, look for the following characteristics:
Obverse (Front):
- Bust of President George Washington.
- Inscriptions: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and 1776-1976.
Reverse (Back):
- Design of a colonial drummer and a victory torch surrounded by thirteen stars.
- Inscriptions: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and QUARTER DOLLAR.
Mint Marks:
- Coins were minted in Denver (D), Philadelphia (P), and San Francisco (S).
Unique Error Variant:
- Look for a double-struck obverse, which appears as a slight overlap of the design.
Why Collectors Value This Coin
The 25-Cent Bicentennial Quarter is valuable for its historical context and rarity. While millions of Bicentennial quarters were minted, this specific error version is incredibly rare, making it a collector’s dream.
Table of Key Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1975-1976 (Dual Dates: 1776-1976) |
| Error Type | Double-struck obverse |
| Estimated Value | Up to $5 million |
| Mint Marks | Denver (D), Philadelphia (P), San Francisco (S) |
Conclusion
This 25-Cent Bicentennial Quarter is more than a piece of history; it’s a potential fortune in your pocket. With its dual dates and unique design, it’s worth inspecting your spare change for this rare coin. Who knows? You might be holding a $5 million treasure.
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my quarter is the valuable double-struck version?
Look for a misaligned design on the obverse, where the image appears slightly doubled.
Where can I find mint marks on the coin?
The mint mark is located near the bottom-right of the obverse, below the ribbon in Washington’s hair.
What should I do if I think I have this coin?
Have it authenticated by a professional coin grading service, such as PCGS or NGC.