BREAKING NUMISMATIC NEWS:
A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter just fetched an astonishing $500,000 at auction in Los Angeles—catapulting it into the ranks of the most valuable modern U.S. quarters ever sold.
At CoinVerse, we’ve dug deep to bring you the details behind this extraordinary mint error that transformed a 25¢ coin into a half-million-dollar collectible.
Why This Coin Is Worth $500,000
“Double Drummer” Error
A rare double-strike with die misalignment resulted in:
- A ghosted second image of the iconic drummer boy at a 30° rotation
- Stunning visual overlap—almost surreal, museum-worthy
- One-of-a-kind: Only one known example in this condition, certified by PCGS
Record-Breaking Auction
Auction House: Legend Numismatics, Los Angeles
Date: January 2025
Final Sale Price: $500,000
Previous Record: $125,000 for a 1976-S silver proof in 2023
How the Error Happened
A mechanical malfunction at the Philadelphia Mint caused the coin to:
- Stick to the die after the first strike
- Slightly rotate
- Get struck a second time, creating the unique doubled image
How to Spot a Valuable 1976 Error Quarter
Key Signs to Look For:
- Double Image of the drummer boy (reverse)
- 30° Rotated Strike—clear second image
- Raised Flow Lines around the design from excessive pressure
- Correct Date: Must say 1776–1976
What To Do If You Find One
Don’t Clean It – Cleaning can destroy value (instantly drop $100K or more)
Use Archival Holders – Avoid PVC plastic flips
Submit for Certification – Only trust PCGS or NGC
Contact Auction Experts – Reach out to Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
Why This Coin May Be Worth Even MORE
Modern mint error demand is up 600% since 2020
Ultra-rare errors are premium investments for collectors
Museums & institutions are starting to bid for “perfect freaks” like this
Final Tip: Always Check Your Change!
That ordinary-looking Bicentennial quarter in your drawer?
It might be worth more than a new car—or even a house.
Fast Facts Recap
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Error Type | Double strike with 30° rotation |
Certified By | PCGS |
Auction Price | $500,000 |
Auction House | Legend Numismatics |
Date | January 2025 |
Your Treasure Could Be Waiting
Follow @CoinVerse to stay on top of new coin discoveries, authentication tips, and exclusive error coin insights.
Would YOU recognize a $500,000 coin in your pocket?
Drop a if you’re on the hunt for history!