This 25-Cent Coin Is Worth $5 Million: Check Your Change. Every day, millions of coins—the majority of which just have their face value—change hands throughout the United States. Nonetheless, a small number of rare coins have exceptional value among the many in use. A special version of the 25-cent George Washington Bicentennial Quarter is one example of such a coin. Its unique qualities, historical relevance, and minting faults have caused its value to soar to as much as $5 million in collector markets.
To mark the 200th anniversary of American independence, the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter was struck in 1975 and 1976. The bicentennial period is marked by the dual dates “1776-1976,” which set it apart from other quarters. Although millions of these pieces were manufactured, collectors have found great value in a few uncommon varieties with flaws, like the double-struck obverse.
The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter
To mark the 200th anniversary of American freedom, the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter was struck. Unlike other quarters, it has two dates: 1776-1976. It was initially published in 1975 and 1976. It has become a significant piece of history due to this architectural alteration and other distinctive traits.
The quarter is noteworthy because it honors the full bicentennial period rather than just the years 1975 or 1976. Although millions of these pieces were produced, there are a few uncommon variations with flaws that greatly raise their worth. One such variation is the double-struck obverse, which is especially valuable to collectors.
Characteristics of the Bicentennial 25-Cent Coin
Understanding the primary features of a George Washington Bicentennial Quarter is essential for accurate identification. The coin’s salient features are as follows:
Obverse Features
- Design: George Washington’s bust facing left is the design of the obverse features.
- Inscriptions: “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the twin dates “1776-1976”.
Features in reverse
- Design: Thirteen stars representing the original colonies surround a colonial drummer facing left, holding a triumph torch.
Inscriptions: The words “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
Mint Marks
These quarters were minted by the mints at Denver (D), Philadelphia (no mint mark), and San Francisco (S). The mint mark is located directly below Washington’s neck on the coin’s obverse side.
| Mint Mark | Location | Minted Coins |
|---|---|---|
| D | Denver | Circulated versions, standard quality |
| No Mark | Philadelphia | Standard quality |
| S | San Francisco | Proof versions, primarily for collectors |
These are the common characteristics of all George Washington Bicentennial Quarters; however, a specific variant with a minting fault is associated with the million-dollar value.
The Mistake That Adds Millions to Its Value
The double-struck obverse mistake is one of the main causes of this coin’s valuation of almost $5 million. This indicates that the coin’s obverse, or front side, was accidentally stamped twice. To identify this feature, follow these steps:
Recognizing the Error of Double Strike
- Double Image: A faint double image is produced by a tiny misalignment in the double-struck obverse. You may see a double effect on the inscriptions or two impressions of Washington’s profile.
- Odd Pattern: Those who are familiar with rare coin faults will recognize the odd, somewhat ghostlike imprint produced by the double-strike effect right away.
The coin’s historical significance and the uniqueness of this inaccuracy make it extremely valuable. Only a small percentage of the millions of these coins that were produced had this noticeable defect, which has caused their value to soar.
Why the Bicentennial Quarter Is Valuable at Millions
For a number of reasons, the double-struck Bicentennial Quarter has increased in value to almost $5 million.
- Extreme Rarity: Errors caused by double strikes are rare. It is all the more appealing because this inaccuracy is present on a bicentennial coin that was produced for a significant occasion.
- Historical Significance: The George Washington Bicentennial Quarter has a strong historical resonance because it is connected to the United States’ 200th anniversary.
- Collector Demand: Important minting faults, especially those connected to well-known events, are highly valued by coin collectors and history buffs.
The Hill Country Weekly claims that because of the uniqueness, historical significance, and curiosity sparked by these minting accidents, collectors are prepared to spend millions of dollars.
How to Find One of These Rare Quarters
So, if you believe you have one of these rare coins, what should you do?
- Examine every quarter you have, paying particular attention to those bearing the dates 1776–1976. Examine Washington’s profile, or the obverse, carefully for any indications of a double image.
- Sometimes these minting mistakes are not readily apparent. Examine the details thoroughly with a magnifying glass.
- Find the mint mark. San Francisco proof copies (designated “S”) are rarely found but could be extremely valuable if they are.
- For verification, seek the advice of a coin specialist or professional numismatist if you believe you have a double-struck quarter. The market value of a coin can be greatly impacted by certification from an organization such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
Could You Have a $5 Million Coin?
One significant aspect of American history is the George Washington Bicentennial Quarter. Even though there are millions of these coins in use, only a small percentage of them have the double-struck obverse mistake, which increases their value to millions of dollars. These coins’ rarity, distinctive mistake, and the historical era they depict all contribute to their worth.
Examine your loose change carefully. The next quarter you find in your pocket might be worth more than $5 million. With meticulous inspection, close attention to detail, and professional guidance, you may find a piece of numismatic treasure.