A close-up of a rare US quarter featuring the Liberty Bell and a special July 4th inscription.
The United States Mint has quietly released 250,000 special-edition quarters to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. Now, a major coin grading company is offering a $2,500 bounty to the first person who finds one in their pocket change.
The Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), a leading authenticity and grading firm, launched the cash reward to mark the historic release. The payout is not a buyout. The winner will receive the $2,500 bonus, and their rare quarter will be returned to them fully graded and encapsulated.
How to Spot the America250 Quarter
These highly sought-after pieces belong to the Declaration of Independence Quarter series. The 250,000 special units were randomly mixed with standard quarters before being distributed to banks nationwide.
Unlike standard versions minted in Philadelphia or Denver, this special edition has distinct visual markers. Collectors must inspect both sides of the coin to verify its authenticity.
To identify the rare quarter, look for these specific details:
- A custom “July 4th” inscription located to the left of Thomas Jefferson’s portrait on the obverse.
- The complete absence of a mint mark (no “P” or “D” anywhere on the coin).
- A reverse design featuring the Liberty Bell accompanied by the inscriptions: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, LIBERTY, QUARTER DOLLAR, and THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.
Claiming the NGC Reward
To qualify for the $2,500 payout, finders must hold a paid NGC collector membership. Memberships currently start at $39 per year. Authorized NGC dealers are strictly prohibited from participating in the hunt.
The bounty is a winner-takes-all race. Only the first eligible member to submit the coin for grading will secure the cash prize.
Subsequent finders who miss out on the initial bounty can still benefit. Anyone who finds the coin can request the exclusive America250 certification label from NGC, cementing the coin’s premium status for the collector’s market.
