The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter remains a hallmark of American numismatics, produced to commemorate the nation’s 200th anniversary. Featuring a colonial drummer design and dual-dated obverse, this quarter was part of a series launched to celebrate the milestone.
The coin’s reverse, designed by Jack L. Ahr, portrays a Revolutionary War drummer boy, surrounded by a torch and thirteen stars symbolizing the original colonies. Meanwhile, the obverse kept George Washington’s portrait, replacing the usual date with “1776-1976.”
Production of the quarter started in 1975 and continued through 1976. It was struck at three U.S. Mint facilities: Philadelphia (without a mint mark), Denver (with a “D” mint mark), and San Francisco (with an “S” mint mark). While most coins entered circulation, a few rare variations have emerged, significantly increasing their numismatic value.
Key Factors Driving Value
Despite the massive production — over 1.7 billion pieces — the sheer quantity limits the value of most common examples to face value or minor premiums. However, certain rare varieties, errors, and top-condition specimens have gained considerable value among collectors and investors.
Standard Circulated Bicentennial Quarter Values
Most circulated 1976 Bicentennial Quarters from Philadelphia and Denver have minimal value, typically only worth face value or a small premium ($1-$3). Uncirculated specimens in MS-63 to MS-65 condition may command $5-$20. However, high-grade examples—especially those graded MS-67 or higher—are rare and can sell for impressive sums:
- MS-67 (Philadelphia): $200-$350
- MS-67 (Denver): $300-$450
- MS-68 (Philadelphia): $3,000-$5,000
- MS-68 (Denver): $5,000-$7,500
San Francisco Business Strikes
San Francisco minted a smaller batch of circulation strikes with the “S” mint mark. These are more valuable than their Philadelphia and Denver counterparts due to lower mintage figures. Uncirculated examples in MS-63 to MS-65 may sell for $8-$25, but higher-grade pieces are worth much more:
- MS-66: $30-$50
- MS-67: $800-$1,200
- MS-68: $8,000-$12,000
40% Silver Bicentennial Quarters
The San Francisco Mint produced a special 40% silver version of the Bicentennial Quarter. These were part of special collector sets and are easily identified by their “S” mint mark. Standard silver proof coins in grades PR-65 to PR-67 typically sell for $15-$30, while perfect examples in PR-70 or MS-70 can reach values of $400-$600. Variants with deep cameo contrast or frosty luster are often more valuable.
Valuable Error Varieties
The most valuable error varieties include doubled die errors and striking errors. These are significant rarities in the world of numismatics:
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO-001): Known for doubling on “LIBERTY” and Washington’s profile, these pieces can fetch $30-$6,000, depending on the grade.
- Doubled Die Reverse (DDR-001): This error shows doubling on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the drummer boy design, with values ranging from $250 to $5,000.
- Off-Center Strikes: These errors are particularly dramatic, with 20%-30% off-center strikes reaching up to $400, and more extreme 50% off-center errors fetching $2,500 or more.
Other rare and dramatic errors, such as struck-through errors or coins produced on wrong planchets, have been known to command premiums as high as $9,000.
Authentication and Certification
Given the high value of some Bicentennial Quarters, authentication is essential. Many rare coins are susceptible to cleaning, artificial toning, or even counterfeiting, which can undermine their value. Professional certification services—such as those offered by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC)—ensure authenticity and provide additional value. These services use advanced tools like digital microscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and die analysis to verify rare and valuable coins.
The Future of Bicentennial Quarters
As the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial approaches in 2026, demand for these coins—particularly rare varieties and high-grade examples—is expected to rise. The combination of historical significance, numismatic rarity, and collectors’ desire for complete sets will likely maintain interest in these coins for the foreseeable future.
For investors and collectors, the Bicentennial Quarter represents a unique opportunity to combine historical interest with significant investment potential. Whether focusing on error varieties, high-grade business strikes, or special silver compositions, there are multiple paths to acquire valuable pieces from this iconic series.
FAQs
What is the value of a typical 1976 Bicentennial Quarter?
A typical 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is worth face value unless it’s in excellent uncirculated condition, where it may sell for $5-$20.
How can I identify a rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarter?
Look for high-grade examples (MS-67 and above) or notable errors like doubled die varieties or off-center strikes, which can significantly increase value.
Why are 40% silver Bicentennial Quarters valuable?
These silver coins were produced in limited quantities for collectors, and their metal content, along with their rarity, increases their value.
Should I get my 1976 Bicentennial Quarter certified?
Yes, professional certification ensures authenticity, especially for rare error varieties or high-grade coins, which can significantly increase their market value.