Most Bicentennial quarters are only worth face value — but a few missing a mint mark could be worth up to $1 million. Yes, you read that right! The 1776–1976 Bicentennial No Mint Mark Quarter is one of the most valuable and mysterious modern U.S. coins ever discovered.
At PennyVerse.info, we’ve dug deep into collector records and auction archives to uncover exactly why this coin has become a holy grail for error coin hunters.
Why This Quarter Could Command $1 Million
Key Rarity Factors:
Missing Mint Mark Error:
Normal Bicentennial quarters were struck in Denver (“D”) or San Francisco (“S”). The No Mint Mark variety shows no letter at all — an extremely rare minting oversight.
Extremely Low Survival Rate:
Only 2–3 confirmed examples are known to exist worldwide, making this coin one of the rarest of all Bicentennial issues.
Historical Significance:
Released to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, this coin represents both a national milestone and a collector’s dream.
Auction Record:
A verified specimen sold for $1.2 million in 2022, sparking global interest among numismatists.
How to Authenticate a Genuine No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter
Step 1 — Examine the Reverse Carefully
Use a 10x magnifying loupe to inspect the area below the eagle.
The spot should be completely blank — no trace or faint outline of a “D” or “S” mint mark.
Step 2 — Verify Weight & Composition
Correct weight: 5.67 grams
Magnetism: Slight magnetic reaction (due to the copper–nickel clad layers)
If your coin is too light, magnetic, or made of silver — it’s not the real deal.
Step 3 — Compare Die Details
Match your coin to certified examples from PCGS or NGC.
The design must align perfectly with official 1976 Bicentennial dies.
Value Chart: No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter
| Grade | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| AU-50 | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| MS-63 | $250,000 – $500,000 |
| MS-65+ | $500,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Values based on verified private sales and major auction results (2022–2025).
Where to Sell a $1 Million Quarter
If you believe you’ve found this coin, only trust top-tier auction houses:
- Heritage Auctions – Record-breaking U.S. coin sales
- Stack’s Bowers – Specialists in rare quarters and mint errors
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions – Trusted by elite numismatists
Selling Tips:
Get your coin certified by PCGS or NGC before listing.
Request a professional insurance appraisal.
Submit to major auction events like Platinum Night Sales for maximum visibility.
Common Counterfeit Warnings
Removed Mint Mark: Polished area where “D” or “S” once existed.- Incorrect Weight: Must fall within 5.65–5.70g range.
- Wrong Metal: Should be copper–nickel clad, not solid copper or silver.
If your coin fails any of these checks, it’s likely an altered piece — not the million-dollar original.
Why This Coin Matters
The 1776–1976 Bicentennial quarter is already a favorite among U.S. coin collectors — but this No Mint Mark version represents a once-in-a-lifetime discovery.
- A true minting mystery from America’s 200th anniversary
- Potential seven-figure value
- Historical and cultural icon rolled into one
Think You Found One?
Before selling, get a free preliminary authentication at PennyVerse.info.
Upload clear photos and your coin’s exact weight — our expert team will review it and help you determine if you’re holding a million-dollar treasure.
