The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is a distinct and distinctive piece of US numismatic history. These quarters, issued to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence, contain a unique reverse design portraying a colonial drummer and a torch encircled by 13 stars signifying the original colonies.
Although many of these coins were produced and are still in circulation, certain varieties are extremely uncommon and costly, making them highly desired to collectors. Here are the top five 1976 Bicentennial Quarters to collect and why they are so valuable.
1. 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter
- Estimated Value: $20 to $150+
- Mint Mark: “S” (San Francisco Mint)
- Composition: 40% silver
This quarter is part of a rare silver proof series produced by the San Francisco Mint and includes 40% silver. These proof quarters, which were designed for collectors, sometimes have a mirror-like brilliance and are rarely seen in circulation.
In contrast, these were issued in extremely limited quantities and sold to collectors at the time. Today, 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarters in clean, uncirculated condition are highly valuable, especially when officially graded by organizations like as PCGS or NGC.
2. 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter
- Estimated Value: $5 to $30+
- Mint Mark: “S” (San Francisco Mint)
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad
Key Features: The 1976-S Clad Proof quarter, like the Silver Proof, was designed exclusively for collectors rather than for widespread circulation. Although it does not contain silver, its excellent quality strike and limited availability make it expensive.
These coins feature a smooth, shiny surface and precise design details that set them apart from conventional circulation quarters.
3. 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter
- Estimated Value: $3 to $30+
- Mint Mark: “D” (Denver Mint)
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad
Key Features: The 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter was produced at the Denver Mint and, while not as scarce as the Proof variants, is nonetheless valued in high-grade, uncirculated form.
Quarters made from the Denver Mint in good condition or with no signs of wear, especially if graded MS-65 or higher, may be valued several times their face value.
4. 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter
- Estimated Value: $2 to $25+
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia Mint)
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad
Key Features: There is no mint mark for quarters made in Philadelphia, as this is standard for this particular minting facility. While the series of coins is more common, without a mint mark, the 1976 Bicentennial quarter can still hold quite a bit of worth to a collector’s faces when in perfect condition.
Quarters that have been well kept over time, particularly those rated MS-65 or higher, can fetch significant amounts on the collectors market.
5. 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter
- Estimated Value: $15 to $100+
- Mint Mark: “S” (San Francisco Mint)
- Composition: 40% silver
Key Features: This uncirculated Silver Edition Bicentennial Quarter was part of a three-coin set that included a half-dollar and a dollar. It contains 40% silver and was not intended for general circulation.
Collectors appreciate these coins highly because of their silver content and uncirculated state. Particularly well-preserved examples, especially those with high grade certification, can be valued far more than their silver content.
Top 1976 Bicentennial Quarters Worth Collecting
| Coin | Mint Mark | Composition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976-S Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter | “S” | 40% silver | $20 to $150+ |
| 1976-S Clad Proof Bicentennial Quarter | “S” | Copper-nickel clad | $5 to $30+ |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter | “D” | Copper-nickel clad | $3 to $30+ |
| 1976 No Mint Mark Bicentennial Quarter | None | Copper-nickel clad | $2 to $25+ |
| 1976-S Silver Uncirculated Bicentennial Quarter | “S” | 40% silver | $15 to $100+ |
Conclusion
In summary, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most memorable and important coins in American history, and it is cherished by the majority of Americans. However, many circulation copies have no major economic value other than sentimental value, although some proof and silver varieties are collectible and attract a high market price.
Whether you have a silver proof, clad proof, or uncirculated coin, keeping track of the condition and rarity of your bicentennial quarter can be an important addition to your collection.
FAQs:
What makes the 1976 Bicentennial Quarters special?
They commemorate the U.S. Bicentennial with unique designs and are dated 1776-1976.
What is the most valuable 1976 Bicentennial Quarter?
High-grade specimens or those with mint errors can be the most valuable.
Are Bicentennial Quarters good for investment?
They can be if they are in excellent condition, rare, or have errors.