Everyday coins often carry just their face value, but certain rare pieces, like the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter with minting errors, are worth a fortune. Among these, a double-struck obverse variant of the 1776-1976 quarter has fetched up to $5 million in collector markets. Here’s an in-depth look at this extraordinary coin, its history, and how to identify one.
A Historic Coin: The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter
The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1975 and 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. Unlike regular quarters, it features the dual dates “1776-1976” to symbolize the bicentennial period.
Millions of these coins were produced, but a few rare variants with minting errors, such as the double-struck obverse, have become highly sought-after collector items due to their uniqueness and historical significance.
Key Features of the Bicentennial Quarter
Obverse (Front)
- Design: Profile of George Washington facing left.
- Inscriptions: “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the dual dates “1776-1976.”
Reverse (Back)
- Design: A colonial drummer with a victory torch, surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies.
- Inscriptions: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Mint Marks
The coin was minted at three locations:
| Mint Mark | Mint Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| D | Denver | Circulated versions |
| No Mark | Philadelphia | Standard circulated coins |
| S | San Francisco | Proof versions for collectors |
The $5 Million Error: Double-Struck Obverse
What Is a Double-Strike Error?
A double-strike occurs when a coin’s design is struck twice by the die, resulting in a faint double image or a misalignment.
How to Identify a Double-Struck Bicentennial Quarter
- Double Image: Look for two impressions of George Washington’s profile or doubling in inscriptions.
- Unique Patterns: The error creates a “ghost-like” effect, with visible overlaps in the design.
These errors are rare and make the coin immensely valuable, especially when combined with the historical significance of the bicentennial celebration.
Why Is This Coin Worth $5 Million?
Several factors contribute to the extraordinary value of the double-struck Bicentennial Quarter:
- Rarity: Double-struck errors are extremely uncommon, and only a handful exist for this particular coin.
- Historical Significance: Commemorating the 200th anniversary of American independence adds cultural and historical weight.
- Collector Demand: The combination of a minting error and a historically significant event creates high demand among collectors.
The unique appeal of this coin has driven its value to astonishing heights in collector markets.
How to Check If You Have a Valuable Bicentennial Quarter
Finding a $5 million coin might seem like a dream, but careful examination could turn it into a reality:
- Inspect Your Change: Look for quarters with the dates “1776-1976.”
- Examine the Obverse: Use a magnifying glass to spot any double images or misalignments.
- Check the Mint Mark: Pay special attention to coins from San Francisco (“S”), which were proof coins, as well as Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”) versions.
- Consult an Expert: If you suspect a double-strike error, get the coin authenticated by a professional numismatist or a reputable service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
Steps to Authenticate and Sell Your Coin
- Get Certified: Certification from PCGS or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) is essential for establishing authenticity and value.
- Appraise the Coin: Work with a professional appraiser to determine its market value.
- Connect with Collectors: Auction houses or numismatic forums are excellent platforms to sell rare coins.
Could You Own a $5 Million Coin?
The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter with a double-struck obverse is a true rarity, combining history, craftsmanship, and a fascinating minting error. While millions of these coins are in circulation, only a select few bear the error that makes them worth millions.
Take the time to examine your loose change carefully. With diligence and expert guidance, you might uncover a coin that’s not just a piece of history but also a financial windfall.
FAQs
What makes the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter unique?
It commemorates the 200th anniversary of American independence and features dual dates (“1776-1976”), with a rare double-struck variant worth millions.
How can I identify a double-struck Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for a faint double image of Washington’s profile or misaligned inscriptions on the obverse side.
Where should I authenticate my coin?
Use professional services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Are all Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
No, only specific variants with rare minting errors, like the double-struck obverse, hold extraordinary value.
Where can I sell a valuable coin?
Rare coins can be sold at auction houses, numismatic forums, or through reputable dealers specializing in collectible coins.
