For many people who lived through the 1970s, the United States Bicentennial in 1976 brings back memories of a year-long celebration filled with patriotic spirit—and a flood of memorabilia.
From souvenirs to collectibles, it was a time when Americans were eager to celebrate the nation’s 200th birthday. Among the many keepsakes produced during that time were special edition coins from the U.S. Mint, including the iconic bicentennial quarter.
A Historic Coin Release
Between 1975 and 1976, the U.S. Mint issued a unique set of quarters to honor the bicentennial anniversary. These coins stood out due to their special reverse design, which was the first major change in over half a century.
Unlike regular quarters, the bicentennial versions featured a revolutionary drummer and a victory torch surrounded by 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies.
High-Value Finds
Some of these commemorative quarters have turned out to be quite valuable. For instance, a 1976-S Bicentennial Silver Quarter in near-perfect condition sold at auction for a whopping $19,200, as reported by Chronicle Collectibles. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg—numerous other bicentennial quarters have fetched impressive amounts over the years.
The value of these coins largely depends on their composition and condition. Most were made using a layered “clad” construction—primarily copper and nickel. However, a select few were struck in 40% silver, making them significantly rarer and more desirable among collectors.
Mint Locations and Rarity
These coins were produced at three primary U.S. Mint locations, each with varying mintages:
- Philadelphia: 809,784,016 clad quarters
- Denver: 860,118,839 clad quarters
- San Francisco:
- 11 million uncirculated 40% silver quarters
- 7,059,099 clad proof coins
- 4 million silver proof coins
Unsurprisingly, coins from the San Francisco Mint—especially those made of silver and in proof condition—tend to be the most valuable today.
Bicentennial Quarters That Sold for Over $1,000
According to data from CoinValueChecker, here are seven notable bicentennial quarters that brought in big bucks at auction:
- 1976-S Silver Proof Quarter – sold for $13,500 in 2019
- 1976 Double Denomination Quarter (struck on a dime planchet) – sold for $9,200 in 2020
- 1976-D Clad DDO (Doubled Die Obverse) Quarter, Business Strike – sold for $8,400 in 2023
- 1976-D Clad Quarter, Regular Strike – sold for $6,463 in 2017
- 1976-S Clad Proof Quarter – sold for $6,038 in 2010
- 1976-S Silver Proof Deep Cameo Quarter – sold for $2,760 in 2007
- 1976 Clad Quarter, Regular Strike – sold for $1,821 in 2023
Final Thoughts
Whether found in an old coin jar or passed down through generations, bicentennial quarters can be more than just pocket change.
Their historical significance, limited mintages, and potential high value make them a favorite among collectors—especially as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.