If you’re in the habit of overlooking spare change, it may be time to pay closer attention. One specific 1976 American bicentennial quarter—featuring a rare minting error—could be worth a staggering $7 million, according to reports.
What makes this coin special?
The bicentennial quarter, minted to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, is marked with the dates “1776–1976” and features a colonial drummer on the reverse side. While most bicentennial quarters in circulation are worth only $5-$6 on resale platforms like eBay, a few rare variations are considered treasures in the numismatic world.
Key Features of the $7 million coin:
- Silver Composition: Unlike standard copper-nickel bicentennial quarters, this rare variant is made of silver.
- Minting Error: A small but crucial mistake during production dramatically increases its value.
Other legendary coins
Rare coins with unique errors or limited circulation have fetched astronomical prices in recent years:
- 1933 Double Eagle Coin: Valued at $18.8 million, it remains the world’s rarest coin. Most were melted down after the U.S. Treasury identified an error in their minting.
- 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar: Known as the first silver coin minted in the U.S., it sold for over $10 million in 2010.
Everyday treasures to look for
While coins like the bicentennial quarter or Double Eagle are exceedingly rare, collectors and enthusiasts often find hidden gems in everyday currency. Here are a few examples:
- 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny: Valued at up to $21,900.
- 2005-D 5C Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel: Worth between $100 and $1,200.
- 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime: Can fetch up to $10,000.
Why you should check your change
With millions of coins in circulation, finding a rare one might seem like a long shot, but it’s not impossible. Even small minting errors can significantly increase a coin’s value, turning pocket change into a historical jackpot.
For aspiring collectors, numismatic groups and online resources can provide guidance on identifying valuable coins. So before you toss those quarters into a vending machine, take a second look—your next find could be a multimillion-dollar discovery.