Bicentennial Washington Quarter

United States of America · 1776-1976

A United States twenty-five cent piece featuring George Washington on the obverse and a colonial drummer on the reverse to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1776-1976
Denomination: Quarter Dollar (25 Cents)
Metal: Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 7, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A United States twenty-five cent piece featuring George Washington on the obverse and a colonial drummer on the reverse to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American independence.

Historical significance

Issued in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the United States Bicentennial. This was the first time the reverse design of the quarter was changed since 1932.

Obverse (front)

The portrait of George Washington facing left, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon's bust. Legends: 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the dual date '1776-1976'.

Reverse (back)

A colonial drummer facing left, with a victory torch encircled by thirteen stars to the left. Legends: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'QUARTER DOLLAR'. Designer: Jack L. Ahr.

Estimated value

$0.25 in circulated condition; $2.00-$10.00 in high uncirculated grades (MS-65+). Rare silver versions and high-grade errors can be worth more.

What drives this coin's value

Most coins found in circulation are only worth face value. Value increases for uncirculated specimens, silver proof sets (marked with an 'S'), and specific errors.

Grade assessment

Circulated / About Good to Fine. Shows significant wear, surface contact marks, and signs of environmental exposure.

Mintage & rarity

809,784,016 (Philadelphia); Extremely common and widely circulated.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Look for the copper-colored stripe on the edge to confirm it is a standard clad issue rather than a more valuable silver-clad proof.

Notable varieties & errors

DDO (Double Die Obverse) varieties exist, as well as several struck-through errors and the 40% silver uncirculated/proof versions from San Francisco ('S' mint mark).

Similar coins

Standard George Washington quarters; distinguished by the dual date 1776-1976 and the colonial drummer reverse.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys the numismatic value and surface original luster. Handle by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints.