Proof coins, struck with specially polished dies and planchets, are often more valuable than circulation coins. The 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Quarter, if in pristine condition, can be worth several dollars to collectors.
While this design is common, quarters with sharper strike details or luster are sought after by collectors and can command slightly higher prices.
The 1976-S Silver Bicentennial Quarter, composed of 40% silver, can be worth more than its face value to collectors, especially if it is in uncirculated condition.
Coins with die cracks, cuds, or other mint errors are sought after by collectors. Depending on the severity and location of the error, these varieties can command premiums above their normal value.
Errors occasionally occur during the minting process, resulting in coins being struck without mint marks. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarters with no mint mark can be rare and valuable to collectors.
Coins that are struck off-center, resulting in partial designs or blank areas on the coin, are considered mint errors and can be valuable to collectors.
Complete proof sets from 1976, which include the Bicentennial Quarter along with other proof coins from that year, can be worth more than the sum of their individual parts to collectors interested in complete sets.
Bicentennial Quarters in uncirculated or near-perfect condition can command premiums above their normal value, especially if they have minimal wear, scratches, or discoloration.
Some Bicentennial Quarters exhibit doubling or repunched mint marks, which can be valuable depending on the extent of the error.
Complete silver proof sets from 1976, which include the Bicentennial Quarter along with other silver proof coins from that year, can be highly desirable to collectors due to their silver content and historical significance.