The 1976 Bicentennial Quarters are one of the most famous and collected U.S. coins. These quarters, released to honor the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, are notable for their unique design and historical significance. Understand the Bicentennial Quarter to appreciate its place in American numismatic culture, whether you’re a veteran or casual collector.

This article talks about everything that has to do with the **1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter**, from its historical background and the design changes it underwent to its different versions, mint marks, and current value.

Historical background: 1976 Bicentennial

The US commemorated its **Bicentennial** in 1976, the 200th anniversary since the **Declaration of Independence** was signed. The government organized several events, celebrations, and symbols to illustrate the country’s background and success for this occasion.

Part of the U.S. government’s enormous Bicentennial celebrations was the releasing of the coins, among them the Quarter. It accompanied the **Bicentennial Half Dollar** and **Bicentennial Dollar** as the temporary United States currency.

Bicentennial Quarter
It was an anniversary quarter and meant to remind the nation of its origins; and American pride was reflected in it.

Design of Bicentennial Quarter

The **Bicentennial Quarter** had a unique reverse. George Washington’s portrait was used on the obverse, while the reverse of the coin had a new design. The United States Mint sponsored the new design by holding a countrywide design competition.

On the back of the Bicentennial Quarter, is Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. “1776–1976” and “E Pluribus Unum”—”Out of many, one.”—are around the picture. This design underscored the event’s historical importance and American unity.

1974 winner: U.S. Mint engraver Jack L. Ahr. The use of Independence Hall by Ahr on U.S. coins indicates the founding of the country.

The 1932 John Flanagan portrait of George Washington was on the obverse of the Bicentennial Quarter. Washington, the first US president has served as the representation of the quarter since its inception. The coin was minted normally for the Bicentennial issue but did not have significant design updates.

Its reeded edge was rounded. The Bicentennial Quarter had a “reeded edge” like all other quarters of its era, but its design gave it a slight flair of art to commemorate the country’s heritage.

 

 Bicentennial Quarter Minting and Production

Three U.S. mints produced 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarters:

Philadelphia Mint (No Mark) – As with all other quarters that are minted in Philadelphia, they have no mint mark.

Denver Mint (D Mint stamp) – Quarters that were minted in Denver are stamped on the back, under Independence Hall with a small “D”.
San Francisco Mint (S Mint stamp) – There is also a small “S” stamped on the reverse side as well for the quarters minted in San Francisco.
Millions were produced to meet the demand of Bicentennial Quarters. Since so many were distributed, they are not hard to find in circulated condition today.

Specimen Mint Sets:

The U.S. Mint created Special Bicentennial Mint Sets and regular coins. The special sets consisted of proof Bicentennial coins-half dollars, quarters, and dollars-in a presentation specially made for them. Proof coins were sold directly to collectors and have a better appearance than business-strike coins.

Commemorative Coin Program:

Along with the Quarters, the Bicentennial also issued the Half Dollar and the Silver Dollar. Once again, these were just a part of a bigger movement towards celebrating the country’s history and funding public events.
**Why Do Collectors Love Bicentennial Quarters?**


A Symbol of American Legacy:

Symbolizing the American Revolution and independence of the United States, the Bicentennial Quarter is more than a coin. History lovers and collectors cherish the coin for its deep connection to the past of the country which makes it emotive.

A Unique Design:

Of the coin’s backside is Independence Hall that makes it stand out. The reverse design of the quarter was changed for the Bicentennial which made it unique among U.S. coins prior to and after 1976.

Collectible Versions:

Although the Bicentennial Quarter was produced in quantities, certain issues are quite scarce. Higher prices are paid for proof and low-mintage coins, such as those contained in Special Mint Sets.
Additional minting errors include filled mint marks or double striking, which adds value to some quarters.

Value of Bicentennial Quarters

1. Condition – The worth of a coin increases by its condition. Lower-grade coins are less valued than uncirculated or proof coins.

2. **Mint Mark** – Proof or uncirculated San Francisco (**S**) or Denver (**D**) Bicentennial Quarters may be more valuable.

3. Errors and Variations – Collectors love coins with filled or doubled mint markings.

In good condition, an uncirculated BQ should bring $1-$10. Better, mint or proof will command a premium for those coins, but any outstanding defects will make the coins more valuable. Pure, uncirculated coins, or super sets can bring $20 dollars or more.

The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter

American independence and legacy in the form of money. These coins are everywhere, but they especially please collectors for reasons of historic content, distinctive design, and minting errors.

The Bicentennial Quarter has something for everyone, whether you want to collect coins, find unusual errors, or own American history. It commemorates the nation’s 200th anniversary as well as some of its more foundational beliefs.

Collectors will love Bicentennial Quarters for centuries with the collection based on their beauty and richness.

FAQs

What makes the 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter different from regular quarters?

The Bicentennial Quarter is unique because of its reverse design. While the obverse (front) features the usual portrait of George Washington, the reverse (back) was altered to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence.

Are Bicentennial Quarters valuable?

The value of a Bicentennial Quarter depends on several factors, including its condition, mint mark, and any minting errors it might have. Generally, these coins are worth only slightly above their face value (around $1 to $10) unless they are in excellent.

What are some common mint marks on Bicentennial Quarters?

Bicentennial Quarters were minted at three U.S. mints:

Philadelphia Mint: These coins have no mint mark.Denver Mint: These quarters have a “D” mint mark located beneath the Independence Hall design.

What are some errors to look for in Bicentennial Quarters

Filled Mint Marks: This occurs when grease or dirt clogs the minting die, causing the mint mark to appear partially filled or missing. A filled mint mark can make the coin more interesting to collectors.

How do I determine the value of a Bicentennial Quarter?

To determine the value of a Bicentennial Quarter, consider the following factors:

Condition: Coins in Uncirculated (MS) or Proof condition are worth more than those that have been in circulation. The Sheldon Scale (from 1 to 70) is commonly used to grade coins.