1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter
Country of Origin: United States
Year of Issue: 1776-1976 (Minted in 1975 and 1976)
Denomination: 25 Cents (Quarter Dollar)
Composition: Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; center of 100% copper (cladded)
Brief Description
A United States quarter featuring George Washington on the obverse and a colonial drummer on the reverse, commemorating the Bicentennial.
Historical Significance
Issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. This was the first time in U.S. history that the design of a circulating coin was changed for an anniversary.
Estimated Value
$0.25 (face value) in circulated condition; $1-$5 in high uncirculated (MS-65) condition.
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a dry environment in a PVC-free holder or flip.
Mint Mark
None (Philadelphia), 'D' (Denver), or 'S' (San Francisco). This specimen appears to be Denver based on the 'D' next to the ponytail.
Mintage & Rarity
Common; over 1.6 billion minted between the Philadelphia and Denver mints.
Weight & Diameter
5.67 grams / 24.26 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Circulated (Fine to Very Fine); showing significant surface wear and loss of detail due to use in commerce.
Obverse (Front)
Left-facing portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, with the dual date '1776-1976' at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
A Colonial Drummer and a victory torch encircled by thirteen stars. Design by Jack L. Ahr.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most are worth only face value. Value increases for high-grade Uncirculated specimens, silver versions (found in special sets), or major mint errors.
Similar Coins
Standard Washington Quarters (single date) and 40% Silver Bicentennial Quarters (identified by a solid silver edge).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic coins will have sharp lettering and weigh approximately 5.67g. Check the edge; a 'sandwich' of copper and nickel confirms it is the standard clad version.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Double Die Obverse (DDO) and DDR varieties; 40% silver 'S' mint strikes intended for collectors.
Created At: 2026-05-28T01:27:45.790947