Struck to honor the nation's Bicentennial, this special quarter quickly became a beloved piece of Americana, capturing the hearts of collectors and the general public alike.
Over the years, the value and allure of these quarters have transformed, culminating in what is now known as the Bicentennial Quarter Saga: The $80 Million Gems History.
The idea for the Bicentennial Quarter was born out of a desire to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence in a memorable and tangible way.
The U.S. Mint decided to produce a series of coins with special designs to mark the occasion, including the quarter, half dollar, and dollar.
The Bicentennial Quarter, featuring a revolutionary new design on the reverse side, was one of the highlights of this series.
The obverse of the quarter retained the familiar profile of George Washington, which had been a staple since 1932.
This design was selected through a national competition and was intended to evoke the spirit of the American Revolution and the country's enduring legacy.