In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence, the 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarters were produced.
Although these coins are prevalent in circulation, specific varieties and conditions have rendered some Bicentennial quarters highly valuable, with some being worth thousands of dollars.
This article provides a comprehensive guide for collectors and enthusiasts, exploring the history, varieties, and value of Bicentennial quarters.
The Origins of Bicentennial Quarters
In 1975, the United States Mint initiated the production of Bicentennial quarters, which were produced until 1976. The standard eagle design was replaced with an image of a colonial drummer boy on the reverse of these coins, which were minted to commemorate America’s Bicentennial.
The image was created by Jack L. Ahr. The obverse of the coin features the iconic profile of George Washington and the dual date “1776–1976” to commemorate the nation’s anniversary.
The quarters were manufactured at three U.S. Mint facilities: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”). In contrast to conventional quarters, Bicentennial coins were manufactured for a period of two years, and no coins were struck with a 1975 date.
Bicentennial Quarters: Their Values and Varieties
Bicentennial quarters are available in a variety of compositions, mintages, and rarities. The value of a coin is contingent upon factors such as the location of the mint, its condition, and the presence of any distinctive defects.
| Mint | Composition | Mintage | Approximate Value (MS65) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (no mintmark) | Cupronickel clad | 809,784,016 | $6 |
| Denver (“D”) | Cupronickel clad | 860,118,839 | $6 |
| San Francisco (“S”) | 40% Silver Proof | 11,000,000 (uncirculated) | $7.50 |
| San Francisco (“S”) | 40% Silver Proof (Deep Cameo) | 4,000,000 | $9 |
Strike quarters that are consistent
Quarters from the Philadelphia and Denver Mints: The majority of Bicentennial quarters in circulated condition are only worth their nominal value of 25 cents. Nevertheless, these quarters can be valued at $5 to $10 in upper Mint State grades (MS65 and above). The most valuable quarters are those in immaculate condition, with MS67 examples fetching up to $127 and MS68 quarters reaching over $6,000 at auction.
Silver proof quarters
San Francisco Silver Proof Quarters: These were produced in restricted quantities for collectors. The 40% silver proof Bicentennial quarters are generally more valuable, with coins in PR70 (Deep Cameo) condition fetching values ranging from $77 to $93.
Quarters of Error
Double Die Errors: The most valuable Bicentennial quarters are those that have minting errors, such as doubled die obverse (DDO) quarters. For example, a 1976-D clad quarter with a DDO error was sold for $8,400.
What is the significance of bicentennial quarters?
Historical Significance: These quarters are a symbol of America’s 200th anniversary, rendering them historically significant.
Limited Minting Period: Bicentennial quarters were produced for a mere two years (1975 and 1976), in contrast to their more common counterparts.
Unique Design: These coins are distinguished from other Washington quarters by the dual date “1776–1976” and the design of the drummer child.
Silver Content: The coin’s intrinsic melt value is enhanced by the 40% silver quarters, particularly those in proof condition.
Collector Demand: The scarcity of higher-grade Bicentennial quarters was a result of the preservation of numerous coins by collectors over time, as a result of wear and tear.
Bicentennial Quarter Sales of Significant Value
The following are a few notable auction transactions of Bicentennial quarters:
- In 2019, a 1976-S Silver Proof quarter was sold for $13,500.
- In 2023, a 1976-D Bicentennial quarter with a DDO error was sold for $8,400.
