Most of the dollar coins minted in 1976 were made from copper clad in an alloy of copper and nickel. Some, though, were made of silver. So if you have one of those silver coins, how much might it be worth?
Let’s explore the value of the 1976 silver dollar. We’ll break down the different types of coins, their designs, and their history. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for and how much your coin could be worth.
Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in!
1976 Silver Dollar Value Chart
| Mint Mark | XF45 | MS60 | MS65 | MS68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 S Silver Dollar | $13 | $16 | $26 | $210 |
| Grade | PR60 | PR63 | PR66 | PR69 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 S Proof Silver Dollar (Cameo) | $14 | $15 | $18 | $28 |
| 1976 S Proof Silver Dollar (Deep Cameo) | $14 | $16 | $19 | $50 |
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| 1976 No S Type 2 Proof Silver Dollar (PR66 Cameo) | $850,000 |
History Of The 1976 Silver Dollar
The 1976 dollar was the fifth version of the Eisenhower series, named after former President Dwight D. Eisenhower. First issued in 1971, these coins were produced using different materials.
Most coins from Philadelphia and Denver were made using a copper-nickel blend. However, the San Francisco Mint produced a version containing actual silver—these had a core of 79% copper and 21% silver, with an outer layer of 80% silver and 20% copper.
This mixed approach stemmed from debates in Congress. Some lawmakers wanted to reduce costs by avoiding silver, while others believed a coin honoring a president deserved better materials. The result was a compromise: clad coins for circulation and silver ones for collectors.
Despite their special status, Eisenhower dollars were bulky and not very popular in daily use. Most ended up in casinos. The series ended in 1978, followed by the smaller Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979.
Features Of The 1976 Silver Dollar
The Obverse of the 1976 Silver Dollar
The front of the coin features Eisenhower’s profile, designed by Frank Gasparro. He originally sketched the image during a World War II parade. Eisenhower faces left, with “LIBERTY” above and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the left. The dates “1776-1976” are shown to mark the bicentennial.
All silver coins were made in San Francisco and include the “S” mint mark below Eisenhower’s neck. This also applies to most proof coins—except one extremely rare version without the mint mark.
The Reverse of the 1976 Silver Dollar
To celebrate 200 years of independence, a new reverse was created. The design, chosen through a public contest, was created by 22-year-old art student Dennis R. Williams. It features the Liberty Bell over the moon. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is inscribed along the top and “ONE DOLLAR” at the bottom, separated by stars. The phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears near the Liberty Bell.
Additional Features
The coin measures 38.5mm in diameter. While clad versions weigh 22.7g, silver versions are slightly heavier at 24.6g. The edge has reeding to prevent tampering, a design used since the 1700s.
1976 Silver Dollar Value Guide
1976 S Silver Dollar Value
These coins have intrinsic silver value, but because they contain less than 25g, their value depends more on condition.
- XF45: $13
- MS60: $16
- MS65: $26
- MS67: $42
- MS67+: $110
- MS68: $210
- MS68+: $5,250
- MS69 (only two known): $20,000 each
San Francisco minted 11 million of these, so they’re relatively common up to MS65.
1976 S Proof Silver Dollar Value
These collector-focused coins were struck with extra care. Over 4 million were made, and many remain in excellent condition.
- PR60: <$10
- PR69: ~$20
Cameo Proofs (frosted designs with mirrored backgrounds) range from $14 (PR60) to $28 (PR69).
Deep Cameo Proofs (stronger contrast) range from $14 (PR60) to $50 (PR69).
PR70 deep cameos are valued at $1,000.
1976 No S Proof Silver Dollar, Type 2 Value
This unique coin lacks the “S” mint mark and features thinner lettering on the reverse. It may have been a test strike from the Philadelphia Mint. Only one is known to exist and was found in a Washington store in 1977. It’s graded PR66 Cameo and valued at around $850,000.
Rare 1976 Silver Dollar Error List
Struck Through Tape
One 1976 S silver dollar had tape stuck during minting. The error remained unnoticed and was later graded MS65, selling for $1,500.
Double Struck Error
A 1976 dollar from Denver was struck twice, with the second strike off-center. It was graded MS61 and sold for over $700.
Where To Sell Your 1976 Silver Dollar?
Now that you know your coin’s potential value, you might be wondering where to sell it. Many online platforms make it easy to sell coins. Check out reviews to find the best dealer near you or explore trusted sites for online selling.
How Much Is A 1976 Silver Dollar Worth Today?
It depends on the type and condition. Proof coins are common, so most are worth between $10–$50 unless they are perfect or have unique errors. A regular MS65 coin is worth around $30. Top-grade coins can be worth up to $25,000.
What Is The Rarest 1976 Silver Dollar?
The rarest is the 1976 silver proof dollar without the “S” mint mark. Graded PR66 Cameo, it’s estimated to be worth around $850,000 due to its unique minting error and extreme rarity.