$3.76 Million Bicentennial Quarter: Could It Be in Your Pocket?

A Coin Worth Millions

In a small Pennsylvania town, a routine trip to the bank turned into a jaw-dropping moment for Maria Lopez. While sorting through loose change, she noticed a 1976 Bicentennial quarter that looked unusual. After some research, she learned it was a rare “No S” mint mark version, one of only a few known to exist. Valued at $3.76 million, this quarter has sparked a frenzy among collectors and everyday Americans wondering if their spare change could hold a fortune.

A Rare Minting Mistake

The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was made to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, featuring a drummer boy design. Most were stamped with an “S” for the San Francisco Mint, but a tiny batch of proof coins left the mint without the mark. These “No S” quarters are incredibly rare, with only two confirmed examples known. Auction records show one sold for $3.76 million in 2022, making it one of the most valuable U.S. coins. Maria’s find could be a third, and experts are eager to verify it.

How It Was Spotted

Maria, a 38-year-old teacher, found the quarter while counting change from a grocery run. She noticed it lacked the “S” mark and had a sharper, shinier look than other quarters. Curious, she checked online and realized it matched the description of the rare “No S” version. She contacted a local coin dealer, who was shocked by the discovery. The coin is now being sent to a grading service to confirm its authenticity and condition, which could determine if it matches the multimillion-dollar value.

What’s It Worth?

The value of a “No S” Bicentennial quarter depends on its condition. Here’s a quick look at potential values based on past sales and expert estimates:

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

If Maria’s coin is genuine and in top condition, it could break auction records. Collectors are already buzzing about the possibility of a new “No S” quarter entering the market.

Could More Be Out There?

Maria’s discovery has people across the country checking their change jars. The “No S” quarters were part of a small batch of proof sets, meaning they were meant for collectors, not circulation. But mistakes happen, and some may have slipped into everyday use. Coin experts say it’s unlikely but not impossible to find another. Maria’s find has inspired her neighbors to dig through old piggy banks, hoping for their own jackpot.

What’s Next for Maria?

For Maria, the coin is a life-changing opportunity. She’s considering selling it to fund her kids’ college education and help her parents retire. But she’s also intrigued by the idea of keeping it as a rare piece of history. The coin’s story has brought her family closer, as they share laughs about her “lucky grocery change.” Whether she cashes in or holds onto it, Maria’s find is a reminder that treasures might be hiding in plain sight, maybe even in your pocket.

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