The Bicentennial quarter, minted in 1976, is a celebrated coin marking 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This special edition coin holds cultural and historical significance, making it a collector’s favorite. With its distinct designs, silver composition, and limited mintages, it remains a fascinating piece of U.S. numismatic history.
Bicentennial quarter: History and identification
The Bicentennial quarter was introduced as part of the U.S. Mint’s Bicentennial Coinage Program, which also included commemorative Kennedy half dollars and Eisenhower dollars. This program paid homage to America’s 200th anniversary of independence. Struck between 1975 and 1976, it was the first quarter in over 50 years to feature a unique reverse design.
Design Features
The obverse of the Bicentennial quarter features the familiar portrait of George Washington by Jean-Antoine Houdon, accompanied by the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the dual date “1776-1976.” The reverse, designed by Jack L. Ahr, showcases a revolutionary drummer with a torch surrounded by 13 stars to represent the original colonies.
Mint Marks and Composition
The coin was minted in three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark). The coins were produced in two types:
- Clad Quarters: Made of a copper-nickel alloy, these weigh 5.67 grams and were widely circulated.
- 40% Silver Quarters: Minted in San Francisco for collectors, these coins contain 40% silver and weigh 5.75 grams.
Silver quarters, due to their higher intrinsic value and limited production, are far more sought after by collectors.
Top 5 rarest and most valuable bicentennial quarters
While most Bicentennial quarters hold modest values, some rare editions have fetched remarkable prices at auctions. Here are the top five:
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, Clad (Regular Strike)
Value: Around $28 in MS65 condition.
Auction Record: $1,119.99 for an MS70 Ultra Cameo in 2022.
2. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter, Clad (Proof)
Value: $11-$30 in PF68 condition.
Auction Record: $6,038 in PF67 condition in 2010.
3. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter, Clad (Regular Strike)
Value: Similar to the 1976-P, averaging $28 in MS65 condition.
Auction Record: $6,462.50 for an MS68 coin in 2017.
4. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter, Silver (Proof)
Value: $9-$13 in PF67 condition.
Auction Record: $13,500 for a PF65 coin with an error in 2019.
5. 1976-S Bicentennial Quarter, Silver (Regular Strike)
Value: $95 in MS68 condition.
Auction Record: $19,200 for an MS68 coin in 2019, making it the most valuable Bicentennial quarter sold to date.
A guide to buying, selling, and grading bicentennial quarters
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, understanding coin grading is essential for determining the value of your Bicentennial quarters.
Coin grading basics
Numismatists use the Sheldon Scale, ranging from P1 (poor) to MS70 (perfect). Coins are categorized as:
- Circulated: Show signs of wear, with grades ranging from P1 to EF49.
- About Uncirculated (AU): Minimal wear, graded AU50 to AU59.
- Uncirculated (MS): No wear, with grades from MS60 to MS70.
Tips for grading coins yourself
Use a bright white light source to illuminate details.
Examine the coin with a 5x-8x magnifier to identify flaws.
Compare your coin to certified examples online to gauge its condition.
Buying and selling tips
When buying Bicentennial quarters, prioritize coins with higher grades or those certified by professional grading services like PCGS. If selling, ensure your coins are accurately graded and authenticated to maximize their value.
The Bicentennial quarter remains a symbol of American heritage and a prized item in numismatic circles. Whether you’re adding to your collection or exploring the coin’s history, it’s a remarkable piece worth appreciating.
