1976 Quarter Value
The year 1976 was a landmark in American history as the nation marked its 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. To honor this milestone, the U.S. Mint introduced special commemorative coins, even though it had discontinued its commemorative coin program in 1954.
Following Congressional approval for a temporary redesign of the quarter’s reverse, the U.S. Mint produced five different types of bicentennial quarters between 1975 and 1976. These coins vary widely in value based on their type, metal composition, and mint origin.
1976 Quarter Value Chart
| Condition | 1976 No Mint Mark | 1976 D | 1976 S (Clad Proof) | 1976 S (40% Silver) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS 65 | $6.65 | $6.65 | / | $8.21 |
| PR 65 | / | / | $4.52 | $9.46 |
1976 Quarter Value Guides
The total number of bicentennial quarters struck in 1976 reached 1.68 billion, covering three business strike versions and two proof versions.
1776-1976 No Mint Mark Quarter (Copper-Nickel Clad)
The Philadelphia Mint created 809,784,016 of these copper-nickel clad quarters without a mint mark. These coins have a core made of pure copper and an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel, resulting in a total copper content of 91.67%.
| Condition | No Mint Mark | D Mint Mark | Silver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good to AU | $0.25 | $0.25 | $1.41 |
| MS 60 | $0.35 | $0.35 | $1.41 |
| MS 63 | $0.50 | $0.50 | $1.41 |
| MS 65 | $1.00 | $1.00 | $1.56 |
| MS 66 | $15–$18 | $15–$18 | $7–$8.40 |
| MS 67 | $50–$60 | $75–$90 | $10–$12 |
| MS 68 | / | $3,500–$4,200 | $70–$84 |
| MS 69 | / | / | $6,000 |
While circulated examples are worth face value, uncirculated coins can fetch up to $60. A 1976 No Mint Mark quarter graded MS 70 sold for $1,200 on eBay in 2022.
1776-1976 D Quarter (Copper-Nickel Clad)
Denver Mint issued 860,118,839 clad quarters. Common examples range from $0.25 to $90 depending on grade, but rare high-grade coins such as the MS 68 have sold for $3,500–$4,200. One was even auctioned for $6,463 in 2017.
1776-1976 S Quarter (40% Silver Clad)
San Francisco Mint struck three versions, including a business strike and two proofs, all composed of 40% silver. These coins typically sell for $1.41 to $84. Although MS 69 examples are expected to reach $6,000, one sold for only $6 on eBay in 2022. Conversely, another fetched $19,200 at Heritage Auctions in 2019.
1776-1976 S Silver Proof Quarter
Four million silver proof quarters were produced. These typically sell for $8 to $28, with flawless MS 70 pieces valued around $180. Rare coins with unique toning or texture can be much more valuable, with one PR 25 selling for $13,500 on eBay in 2019.
| Condition | Clad Proof | Silver Proof |
|---|---|---|
| PR 67 | $4 | $8 |
| PR 69 | $20 | $28 |
| PR 70 | $85 | $180 |
1776-1976 S Proof (Copper-Nickel Clad)
7,059,099 proof clad coins were made at San Francisco. Most sell for $4 to $85. The most expensive one sold was a PR 69 specimen that brought in $6,038 in 2010. Others, like the PR 70 DCAM, reached $920.
1976 Quarter Errors
Unique error coins from this year can command high values:
- Overstruck Quarters: Caused by pressing a coin twice. One such piece sold for $12,000.
- Die Cap Error (1976 D): Caused by a misaligned planchet. One sold for $2,880.
- Doubled Die: Features doubling from a misaligned die. These quarters can sell for $800 to $3,250.
- Struck-Through Errors: Caused by foreign material like cloth on the die. One fetched $881.25.
Other minor errors include grease-filled dies, off-center strikes, and broad-strikes.
History of the 1976 Quarter
To mark 200 years of independence, the U.S. Mint resumed its commemorative coin program. Minting began on July 4, 1975, and continued through 1976 to avoid coin hoarding. These coins feature the dual date “1776–1976.”
| Mint | Variety | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | No Mint Mark (Clad) | 809,784,016 |
| Denver | D Mint Mark (Clad) | 860,118,839 |
| San Francisco | S Mint (Silver) | 11,000,000 |
| San Francisco | S Clad Proof | 7,059,099 |
| San Francisco | S Silver Proof | 4,000,000 |
| Total | / | 1,687,961,954 |
Despite high mintage numbers, these quarters are cherished by collectors for their historical significance.
Identifying the 1976 Quarter
Obverse Design
The obverse, created by John Flanagan, is based on a bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon. It features George Washington, the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1776–1976.” A mint mark (D or S) may appear next to Washington’s ponytail.
Coin Specs (Clad Version)
- Face Value: $0.25
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel
- Weight: 5.67 g
- Diameter: 24.26 mm
- Thickness: 1.75 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Reverse Design
Designed by Jack L. Ahr, the reverse showcases a Revolutionary War drummer surrounded by thirteen stars and a torch, symbolizing freedom and unity. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR” encircle the image.
Coin Specs (Silver Version)
- Composition: 40% silver, 60% copper
- Silver Weight: 0.0739 troy oz
- Total Weight: 6.25 g
- Diameter & Thickness: Same as clad version
Valuable 1976 Quarters
Some of the most valuable bicentennial quarters include:
- 1976 S MS 69 Silver Quarter – Sold for $19,200
- 1976 S PR 25 Silver Quarter – Sold for $13,500
These special coins continue to attract collectors due to their historical context and unique design.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1976 quarter is silver?
A: Check for an “S” mint mark and weigh the coin. Silver quarters weigh about 6.25 grams, while regular clad ones weigh 5.67 grams. Silver versions also have a smooth, solid edge—no visible copper stripe.
Q: Are all 1976 quarters valuable?
A: Most 1976 quarters found in circulation are worth face value. However, uncirculated, proof, silver, and error coins can be worth much more—sometimes hundreds or even thousands.
Q: What does the dual date “1776–1976” mean?
A: It commemorates the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, not the coin’s mint year alone.
Q: Should I clean my 1976 quarter before selling it?
A: No. Cleaning a coin can lower its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered state.