This guide walks you step by step through how to identify, verify, and protect this highly sought-after coin.
Step 1: Understand Why This Coin Is So Valuable
Collectors chase this quarter because:
Extremely rare — only a few confirmed examples exist
Visible doubling on the obverse (front) side
Denver Mint mark (“D”) is key
High-grade coins (MS-67+) fetch top-dollar prices
Step 2: Start Your Treasure Hunt
Look for potential quarters at home:
• Check your pocket change
• Search old coin jars or bank rolls
• Focus on the dual date: 1776–1976
Step 3: Verify the Mint Mark
The Denver “D” mint mark is crucial:
• Look just beside Washington’s ponytail
• Only “D” mint-marked quarters can have this rare doubled die error
Step 4: Examine the Lettering for Doubling
Use a 10x magnifier or jeweler’s loupe to check:
• “LIBERTY” — especially the L & B
• “IN GOD WE TRUST” — the G is often a key indicator
True doubled dies show shadow-like doubling, often visible to the naked eye.
Step 5: Confirm It’s a Genuine Doubled Die
Be cautious — many coins show machine doubling, which is flat and worthless.
True doubled dies display split serifs — small doubled lines at the edges of letters.
Step 6: Get Your Coin Professionally Graded
For maximum value, submit your coin to:
• PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
• NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
Approximate Values
• Ungraded: $500–$1,000
• MS-65: $5,000+
• MS-67: $19,000+
Recent Auction Prices
| Year | Grade | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | PCGS MS-67 |  $19,200 |
| 2023 | NGC MS-66 | $9,400 |
| 2022 | PCGS AU-55 | $3,800 |
Step 7: Important Collector Warnings
Reverse (drummer) side does not affect value — focus on the obverse
Most 1976 quarters are still worth only 25¢
Never clean or polish your coin — it instantly destroys collector value
Step 8: How to Handle and Protect Your Coin
Handle only by the edges to avoid fingerprints
Take high-resolution photos showing the doubling
Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
Sell through Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections for maximum exposure
Step 9: Free Expert Evaluation
Unsure if your coin is the real deal? Get a professional opinion:
Email BicentennialExperts@RareQuarters.com
Call 1-800-QUARTER-19K
Include clear photos of your coin’s obverse, reverse, and edges.
Collector Story
“I found mine in a tip jar — it graded MS-65 and sold for $6,200!”
— Mark T., Ohio
Step 10: Final Tip
Only a few dozen of these rare 1976-D doubled die quarters are known.
Check your change carefully — your 25¢ coin could be a $19,000 treasure! 
