The $1,500 “Drummer Boy” Quarter Collectors Are Actively Searching For
Most people see the 1976 Bicentennial quarter and think it’s just pocket change.
But a rare Denver-minted doubled die error has transformed this everyday coin into a collector favorite worth up to $1,500
Even better? These quarters are still being found in circulation today.
Let’s break everything down step by step, so you can quickly check your own coins
Why Collectors Are Paying Big Money
This is not internet hype — real collectors are cashing in:
- One finder had their Drummer Boy quarter certified and sold it for over $1,500
- Another discovery followed just days later with a similar payout
- Verified examples continue to surface from:
Change jars
Bank rolls
Old family collections
Everyday pocket change
There’s a genuine chance you already own one without realizing it.
What Is the Bicentennial “Drummer Boy” Doubled Die?
This rare error appears on 1976 Bicentennial quarters, which feature:
- Obverse (Front): Dual date 1776–1976
- Reverse (Back): The iconic patriotic Drummer Boy design
Important:
Only Denver-minted (D) quarters are confirmed to carry this doubled-die variety.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Spot the $1,500 Error Quarter
Grab a magnifier and follow this simple checklist
Step 1: Confirm the “D” Mint Mark
Flip the coin to the reverse (Drummer Boy side).
“D” mint mark present → continue checking
No mint mark → not the valuable variety
Denver is your entry ticket — no “D,” no jackpot.
Step 2: Inspect the Word “LIBERTY”
Turn back to the front of the coin.
Closely examine these letters:
- L
- I
- B
- R
Use a 10× magnifying glass if possible.
What you’re looking for:
- Doubling
- Shadow-like outlines
- Slight separation on the lettering
Certified examples show clear, crisp doubling, especially on LIBERTY.
How Much Is the Drummer Boy Doubled Die Worth?
Approximate market values:
Ungraded (Raw): $300+
PCGS / NGC Certified: $800 – $1,500+
High-grade coins can sell for even more.
Certification significantly boosts buyer confidence — and your final price.
How to Protect & Certify Your Coin (Do This Exactly)
If your quarter matches the signs, follow these steps immediately:
Do NOT clean the coin (cleaning destroys value)
Take clear photos (front, back, close-up of LIBERTY)
Store it safely in a coin flip or holder
Submit to:
- PCGS
- NGC
These grading services are trusted by serious collectors worldwide.
Why You Should Search Your Quarters Right Now
These coins have existed for decades — but only recently has this doubled-die variety gained major attention.
New discoveries continue to come from:
Coin jars
Bank-wrapped rolls
Old inherited coin boxes
Car cup holders
Coin counter rejects
Your next $1,500 find could be sitting inches away from you right now.
The Bottom Line: Is This Quarter Still Worth Hunting?
Absolutely.
The Bicentennial Drummer Boy Doubled Die is:
Authentic
Valuable
Still circulating
What to Do Next:
- Check all 1776–1976 “D” quarters
- Look closely at LIBERTY
- Submit anything suspicious for certification
You could be holding one of the hottest modern U.S. coin errors worth $800 to $1,500+.
Happy hunting!