Millions of quarters circulate daily, each typically worth their face value of 25 cents. However, certain rare variants can be worth substantial amounts, with some fetching up to $5 million.
One such coin is the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter, minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence.
This article delves into the unique features of this coin, the error that elevates its value, and how to identify if you possess this rare piece.
Understanding the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter
The U.S. Mint produced the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter in 1975 and 1976 to honor America’s bicentennial. Unlike standard quarters, this coin features dual dates, “1776-1976,” highlighting its commemorative nature. The obverse side displays a left-facing bust of President George Washington, accompanied by the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
The reverse side showcases a colonial drummer, a victory torch, and thirteen stars representing the original colonies, with inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Key Characteristics of the Bicentennial Quarter
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Bust of George Washington facing left, with “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “1776-1976.” |
| Reverse Design | Colonial drummer, victory torch, thirteen stars, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.” |
| Mint Marks | Located below Washington’s neck: “D” for Denver, no mark for Philadelphia, “S” for San Francisco. |
The Error That Amplifies Its Value
Among the millions of Bicentennial Quarters minted, a rare few exhibit a double-struck obverse error. This minting mistake occurred due to misalignment during production, resulting in a doubled image on the coin’s front.
Such errors are highly sought after by collectors, significantly increasing the coin’s value. The combination of this unique error and the coin’s historical significance has led to valuations reaching up to $5 million.
Identifying the Double-Struck Bicentennial Quarter
To determine if you have this valuable coin, examine the obverse side closely. Look for signs of doubling, particularly around the inscriptions and Washington’s profile. The doubling may appear as a slight shadow or a more pronounced overlapping of images.
Using a magnifying glass can aid in detecting these details. If you suspect your coin has this error, consider consulting a professional coin appraiser for verification.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
The extraordinary value of the double-struck Bicentennial Quarter stems from its extreme rarity and historical context. The U.S. Mint produced these quarters for only two years, and the double-strike error occurred in a minuscule fraction of the total mintage.
This scarcity, combined with the coin’s association with America’s bicentennial, makes it a prized possession among collectors.
Steps to Take If You Find One
If you believe you’ve found a double-struck Bicentennial Quarter, take the following steps:
- Preserve the Coin: Handle it minimally and store it in a protective case to prevent damage.
- Seek Professional Appraisal: Consult a reputable coin appraiser or numismatist to authenticate the coin and assess its value.
- Consider Certification: Having the coin certified by a recognized grading service can enhance its credibility and market value.
The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter is a notable piece of American numismatic history. While most are common, the rare double-struck obverse error variants can be worth up to $5 million. By carefully examining your quarters and seeking professional evaluation when necessary, you might discover a hidden treasure in your collection.
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter different from regular quarters?
It features dual dates “1776-1976” and a unique reverse design with a colonial drummer.
How can I identify a double-struck error on the quarter?
Look for overlapping images or shadows on the obverse side, especially around inscriptions and Washington’s profile.
Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
While standard Bicentennial Quarters hold some collector interest, only those with rare errors, like the double-strike, have significant value.
