The first variety of the Bicentennial quarter features a drummer on the reverse side without any spikes or lines on the drum. This variety was quickly replaced due to complaints that the drum looked like a cheese wheel.
The Type 2 variety of the Bicentennial quarter, which replaced the Type 1 design, features spikes or lines on the drum of the drummer. This design modification was implemented to make the drum appear more realistic.
Most Bicentennial quarters were minted at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, but some were produced at the Philadelphia Mint without a mint mark. These coins are known as the "P" mint mark variety and are relatively scarce compared to their Denver-minted counterparts.
A double die error occurs when there is a misalignment during the minting process, resulting in doubling of the design elements. Bicentennial quarters with a double die obverse exhibit noticeable doubling of the date and other features on the obverse side of the coin.
Bicentennial proof sets were produced by the United States Mint specifically for collectors. These proof sets contain Bicentennial quarters that are struck with special care and polished dies, resulting in coins with a mirror-like finish and sharply defined details. Proof sets are highly sought after by collectors and often command a premium price.