Keep an Eye on The $600K Bicentennial Quarter and 4 Other Change Jar Treasures

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$600K Bicentennial quarter:What if your old change jar holds a treasure? A handful of U.S. coins, including a rare 1976 Bicentennial quarter, are worth far more than their face value. Collectors are willing to pay hundreds of thousands and sometimes millions of dollars, so these coins can turn your leftovers into serious cash. Here’s a closer look at five coins, first up being the star: the Bicentennial quarter that sold for $600,000.

A Quarter That’s Worth a Lot

To celebrate America’s 200th birthday, the U.S. Mint issued a special quarter in 1976 featuring a colonial drummer boy on the reverse. While most of these are common, some rare varieties are extremely valuable. A 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial quarter, graded in pristine condition, sold at auction for $600,000. What makes it valuable? The combination of silver content, mint mark and collector-grade quality.

Billions of Bicentennial quarters were made in 1975 and 1976, but few were made on 40% silver planchets intended for collector sets. Some of these accidentally entered circulation. Others have mintage errors such as doubled die obverses or off-center strikes, making them extremely valuable.

Bicentennial Quarter Type	Key Feature	Estimated Value
1976-S Silver Proof	40% Silver, “S” Mint Mark	Up to $600,000
1976-D Clad DDO	Double Die Obverse	$5,000 – $10,000

Lincoln Wheat Penny Surprise

The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a legendary position among coin collectors. During World War II, pennies were made from steel to preserve copper for the war effort. However, some pennies were accidentally minted in copper. These 1943 copper pennies are incredibly rare, and one of them is worth over $2 million. Even worn specimens can sell for over $100,000.

Coin Type	Key Feature	Estimated Value
1943 Copper Wheat Penny	Copper, Not Steel	Up to $2M
1943 Steel Penny	Common, Silver Color	$0.10 – $1

Rare 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars

The first 1964 Kennedy half dollars were issued shortly after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. These coins were made of 90% silver, and while many were saved, some rare versions with errors can be worth up to $950,000. Look for double die errors, off-metal strikes, or unusually well-preserved examples. Even a standard silver Kennedy half can sell for $10 to $50.

The hidden value of Barber’s Quarters

Barber quarters, minted between 1892 and 1916, are another treasure worth seeking out. The 1913-S Barber quarter, in particular, is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Only a few exist. Even in extremely worn condition, these coins can command $10,000 or more. Look for the “S” mint mark and Liberty Head design – usually buried in old family collections or jars of inherited coins.

The Double Die Magic of the Mercury Dime

The 1942/1 Mercury dime is a textbook example of a dramatic mint error. This double die error occurred when a 1942 date was stamped onto a 1941 die. As a result, both numbers appear blurred. This error is extremely rare and could be worth $95,000 or more, depending on condition. Check your dime for the winged Liberty head and overlapping dates to identify this elusive coin.

Start your Treasure Hunt

These coins are living proof that unexpected treasures can be hidden in change jars. From $600,000 worth of Bicentennial quarters to millions of dollars worth of copper pennies, precious coins are still out there. Here’s how you can increase your chances of finding one:

Check for mint marks such as “S” or “D” below the dates.
Check for doubling on dates, letters, or unusual features.
Weigh suspicious coins—copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, while steel pennies are lighter.
Compare with verified coin images online.
If you think it’s a rarity, consult a certified dealer or grading service.

Coin collecting is more than a hobby – it’s a treasure hunt through American history. So grab your jar, check your pockets, and take a close look. The next million dollar coin might be right in your hands.