This Bicentennial Quarter Could Be Worth $3.76 Million – Are You Carrying It?

In a small town in Pennsylvania, Maria Lopez had an ordinary day that turned amazing. She went to the bank and got some loose change. While checking the coins at home, she saw a 1976 Bicentennial quarter that looked strange.

She looked it up online and found it might be the rare “No S” mint mark version. This coin is extremely rare. Only a few are known to exist. One of them sold for $3.76 million. Now, collectors and regular people are checking their spare change, hoping to find one too.

A Rare Minting Mistake

The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was made to celebrate 200 years of American independence. The coin has a drummer boy design on the back. Most of these coins have an “S” mark, which means they were made in San Francisco.

But a small number were made without the “S” mint mark. These are called “No S” quarters. Only two have ever been confirmed. One of them was sold in 2022 for $3.76 million. If Maria’s coin is real, it could be the third one.

How It Was Spotted

Maria is a 38-year-old teacher. She found the coin while counting change from a grocery trip. She saw that it didn’t have the usual “S” mark and looked extra shiny.

She got curious and searched online. The coin matched the rare “No S” version. She took it to a coin dealer, who was shocked. Now the coin is being sent to a grading service. They will check if it is real and what condition it is in. This will help decide how much it is worth.

What’s It Worth?

The value of the “No S” Bicentennial quarter depends on its condition. Here is a simple table showing the possible value:

ConditionEstimated Auction Value
Good$1.5 million – $2 million
Excellent$2 million – $3 million
Near Mint$3 million – $3.76 million+

If Maria’s coin is real and in near mint condition, it could break records. Collectors are already talking about it.

Could More Be Out There?

Now, many people across the country are checking their old coins. These “No S” quarters were made in proof sets for collectors. They were not meant to be used in daily life.

But sometimes mistakes happen. A few might have gotten out into regular use. Experts say it’s very rare, but not impossible. Maria’s lucky find has made others hopeful. Some of her neighbors have also started looking through their coin jars and piggy banks.

What’s Next for Maria?

For Maria, this coin could change her life. She is thinking about selling it. The money could help pay for her children’s college and help her parents retire.

But part of her wants to keep it. The coin has become a special part of her family’s story. They often laugh about how she found it in grocery change. No matter what she decides, it’s a great reminder that surprises can be found in everyday places—maybe even in your own pocket.

FAQs

What is a “No S” quarter?

A quarter without the “S” mint mark from San Francisco.

How many “No S” quarters are known?

Only two confirmed so far.

How much is Maria’s coin worth?

Up to $3.76 million if it’s real and in great condition.

Can I find one in my change?

It’s very rare, but not impossible.

What should I do if I find one?

Get it checked by a coin expert or grading service.

William is a dedicated finance writer who enjoys breaking down complex financial topics. He focusses on personal finance, investing, and market trends, offering readers straightforward, actionable advice to help them make better financial decisions.

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