United States Bicentennial Quarter
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1776-1976
Denomination: Quarter Dollar ($0.25)
Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core)
Brief Description
A 1976 United States quarter dollar featuring George Washington on the obverse and a colonial drummer on the reverse to celebrate the Bicentennial.
Historical Significance
Issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States' independence. No 1975-dated quarters were minted; instead, the Bicentennial design was produced during both 1975 and 1976.
Estimated Value
Circulated: $0.25. High grade Uncirculated: $1-$5. High-relief silver proof versions can be worth $10+.
Care Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it removes the original surface; handle by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing toning or spots.
Mint Mark
None (Philadelphia Mint). Typical marks for this series are 'D' for Denver and 'S' for San Francisco (proofs).
Mintage & Rarity
Common; over 800 million produced at the Philadelphia mint alone. Not rare unless in exceptionally high grade or a specific error variant.
Weight & Diameter
5.67 grams; 24.26 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
About Circulated to Circulated. The coin shows visible surface wear, scratches, and some environmental discoloration/staining on both sides.
Obverse (Front)
Portrait of George Washington facing left, common to the Washington Quarter series, with dual date 1776-1976 at the bottom. Legend LIberty at top.
Reverse (Back)
A colonial drummer facing left with a victory torch surrounded by thirteen stars. Legend 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'. Designed by Jack L. Ahr.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most circulated examples are worth only face value. Value increases for uncirculated specimens, silver proof versions (40% silver), and specific error coins.
Similar Coins
Standard Washington Quarters (post-1932) are often confused but feature an eagle on the reverse instead of the drummer.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check the edge for the copper-colored stripe; if absent, it may be a silver-clad version. Genuine Bicentennial quarters have no 1975 date.
Notable Varieties & Errors
1976-D Double Die Obverse is a popular variety; also 40% silver versions were produced for collectors at the San Francisco mint (S-mark).
Created At: 2026-06-07T18:42:10.639064