You Might Already Own This Rare Quarter
Many people watching this right now likely have one of these coins without realizing it.
The 1976 Bicentennial “Drummer Boy” quarter is one of the most widely saved U.S. coins — but certain rare errors can make it worth hundreds, thousands, or even over $27,000 
.
Let’s go through exactly what to look for, step by step, so you don’t miss a valuable find.
What Is the Bicentennial “Drummer Boy” Quarter?
Issued in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, this quarter features:
- George Washington on the obverse
- A colonial drummer on the reverse
- Dual date: 1776–1976
Millions were minted — but only a small number contain major mint errors.
Step 1: Check for Doubled Die Letters (Worth $600–$800+)
Turn the coin to the front (obverse) and examine the word LIBERTY carefully.
What to Look For
- Extra lines or doubling on the letters
- Most visible on L, I, B, and R
- Appears like a shadow or second outline
This is called a Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) error.
Estimated Value:
- $600+ in average condition
- $800 or more in strong, clear examples
Use a 10× magnifying glass to confirm — the doubling should be part of the strike, not damage.
Step 2: Look for an Undersized Quarter (Struck on a Dime Planchet)
If your quarter looks smaller than normal, stop immediately.
Rare Mint Error
Some Bicentennial quarters were accidentally struck on 1976 dime planchets.
- Thinner and smaller than a normal quarter
- Weighs significantly less
- Design may appear cramped or incomplete
Estimated Value:
- $9,000+, depending on condition and certification
This error is extremely rare and highly collectible.
Step 3: Watch for the Shocking Eisenhower Dollar Error ($27,000+)
One of the most dramatic errors ever discovered involves Bicentennial quarters struck on Eisenhower dollar planchets.
What Makes It Obvious
- Oversized coin
- Circular outline visible on the surface
- Bell-shaped design impressions underneath the quarter design
What you’re seeing is actually part of the Eisenhower dollar reverse, accidentally struck beneath the quarter design.
Confirmed Sales:
- One sold for $27,000
- Another nearly identical example sold for $28,000
These are museum-level mint errors.
Quick Error Checklist for Bicentennial Quarters
| Error Type | What to Look For | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die | Doubling on LIBERTY | $600–$800+ |
| Dime Planchet | Smaller, thin quarter | $9,000+ |
| Dollar Planchet | Oversized, bell outline | $27,000–$28,000 |
Important Tip: Examine Any “Weird” Coin Closely
If your Bicentennial quarter shows:
- Shaved edges
- Strange circles
- Missing details
- Incorrect size or weight
Do not spend it. These are classic signs of valuable mint errors.
What To Do If You Find One
Handle only by the edges
Take clear photos of both sides
Compare size and weight to a normal quarter
Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
Store safely until certified
Never clean the coin — cleaning can destroy most of the value instantly.
Why Bicentennial Quarters Are Still Being Found
Massive mintage means errors slipped through- Many still sit in jars and collections
- Most people never check them closely
Sometimes the most valuable coins are the ones people overlook.
