Introduced to mark the 200th anniversary of the United States, bicentennial quarters were distributed in 1975 and 1976. Because of their distinctive designs and mintage variances, these pieces are quite sought after among coin collectors. A few of these coins sell for quite remarkable rates on the market. Let’s tour these old quarters and determine which one is more valued specifically.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter: Collectable Legacy
The special design of the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is well-known. Its reverse displays 13 stars around a flame and a man beating a colonial drum. This design superseded the conventional eagle form. Two kinds of metal compositions are available this quarter: 40% silver and copper-nickel clad.
- Generally speaking, most 1976 quarters in average condition sell close to their original value.
- High-grade examples: Quarters struck from silver or kept in high condition can run $15 or more.
1976: Silver Proof Quarterly: Choice of Collectors
Made in San Francisco, these quarters have 40% silver. These were produced especially for the collector set.
- Price Range: These might run anywhere from $8 to $20 based on condition.
- Coins in unused proof condition are rare and beautiful, thus they can fetch great value.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarterly: Historical Importance
Historically unique is the Denver Mint’s 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter since it features the “D” mintmark.
- Unless they are in extraordinary condition, most quarters have a value exactly as they first did.
- Quarters graded MS67 or above can sell for $200 or more since they are uncommon and superbly preserved.
1976 Unminted Quarter: Philadelphia’s Offer
Philadelphia’s bicentennial quarters created without a mintmark are just like normal ones. Collectors, however, like high-grade specimens.
- Coins graded MS68 or above show their rarity and great condition, hence their range in price from $100 to $200 is rather different.
1976-S Clad Proof Quarter: Perfection
Made in San Francisco, these Proof Quarters have a brilliant, mirror-like sheen. These don’t contain silver and were specially added to collectors’ sets.
- Usually, these go from $5 to $10.
- Condition: If in great shape or part of a collectors’ set, these might command premium rates.
Important elements in the value of the bicentennial quarters
The Bicentennial Quarter’s worth rests mostly on three key elements:
- Higher-grade coins (MS67 or above) are more valuable but less common.
- Because of their small mintage, coins bearing an “S” or “D mintmark generally command premium prices.
- Composition: Common copper-nickel-covered versions are less valuable than quarters made of silver (40% silver).
Coin | Mint Year | Mintmark | Composition | Approximate Value (High Grade) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | None | Copper-Nickel Clad | Up to $15 |
Silver Proof Quarter | 1976-S | S | 40% Silver | $8 – $20 |
Bicentennial Quarter | 1976-D | D | Copper-Nickel Clad | Up to $200 |
No Mint Mark Quarter | 1976 | None | Copper-Nickel Clad | $100 – $200 |
Clad Proof Quarter | 1976-S | S | Copper-Nickel Clad | $5 – $10 |
Conclusion:
Your collection list might benefit from a Bicentennial quarter that is in either a new or almost new state. Look over your old coins; quarters with the appropriate grade, mintmark, or composition could turn out to be a treasure buried in your pocket.
FAQs:
What is a 1976-S silver quarter worth today?
In Proof condition, 1976-S silver quarters range from $8 to $20, with pristine examples fetching even higher prices.
Are all Bicentennial quarters made of silver?
No. Most are copper-nickel clad, but some special collector’s coins, like the 1976-S Silver Proof quarter, contain 40% silver.