How Much Is A 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter Worth Today? Check Your Pockets Today

The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter holds a special place in American numismatics, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence.

While these quarters are common in circulation, certain factors can elevate their value beyond face worth.

Understanding the Bicentennial Quarter

The Bicentennial Quarter features a unique design distinct from regular Washington quarters. The obverse retains John Flanagan’s portrait of George Washington.

At the same time, the reverse, designed by Jack L. Ahr, showcases a colonial drummer boy with a victory torch encircled by 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies. The dual date “1776-1976” marks the nation’s bicentennial celebration.

Mintage and Composition of Bicentennial Quarters

Approximately 1.7 billion Bicentennial Quarters were minted across three facilities:

Mint	Mint Mark	Mintage	Composition
Philadelphia	None	809,784,016	Copper-Nickel Clad
Denver	D	860,118,839	Copper-Nickel Clad
San Francisco	S	7,059,099 (Proof)	Copper-Nickel Clad
San Francisco	S	11,000,000	40% Silver (Uncirculated)
San Francisco	S	4,000,000	40% Silver (Proof)

Note: Several million silver Bicentennial quarters were melted in the 1980s, reducing their original numbers.

Determining the Value of Your Bicentennial Quarter

The value of a Bicentennial Quarter depends on its condition, mint mark, and composition:

• Circulated Copper-Nickel Quarters: Typically worth face value (25 cents).
• Uncirculated Copper-Nickel Quarters:
  • Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): Approximately $0.95 to $2,400, depending on grade.
  • Denver (D Mint Mark): Approximately $0.95 to $5,100, depending on grade.
• San Francisco Proof Quarters:
  • Copper-Nickel Clad Proof (S Mint Mark): Approximately $8 to $187, depending on grade.
  • 40% Silver Proof (S Mint Mark): Approximately $9 to $240, depending on grade.
• San Francisco 40% Silver Uncirculated Quarters: Approximately $4 to $9,600, depending on grade.

Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on the coin market.

Identifying Valuable Bicentennial Quarters

To assess if your Bicentennial Quarter holds more than face value:

1. Check the Mint Mark: Located to the right of Washington’s bust.
   • No Mint Mark: Philadelphia Mint.
   • D: Denver Mint.
   • S: San Francisco Mint.
2. Examine the Coin’s Condition: Coins with minimal wear (uncirculated) or those with proof finishes are more valuable.
3. Determine the Composition:
   • Silver Content: Silver quarters weigh slightly more (5.75 grams) than copper-nickel ones (5.67 grams).
   • Edge Inspection: Silver quarters lack the copper-colored stripe visible on the edges of copper-nickel coins.

Collectibility and Market Demand

While Bicentennial Quarters are abundant, certain factors can enhance their collectibility:

• High-Grade Specimens: Coins graded MS65 or higher can command premium prices.
• Proof and Silver Versions: Especially those in original mint packaging, are sought after by collectors.
• Error Coins: Rare minting errors can significantly increase a coin’s value.

Conclusion

The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter is a cherished piece of American history. While many are worth their face value, specific variations and conditions can make them valuable to collectors.

Examining your quarters for mint marks, condition, and composition can help determine if you possess a numismatic treasure.

FAQs

Are all Bicentennial Quarters made of silver?

No, most are copper-nickel clad. Only those minted in San Francisco with an “S” mint mark were produced in 40% silver.

How can I tell if my Bicentennial Quarter is silver?

Check for an “S” mint mark and examine the coin’s edge; silver quarters lack the copper stripe present in copper-nickel coins.

What is the highest recorded sale for a Bicentennial Quarter?

Some high-grade silver proof quarters have sold for over $19,000 at auction.