1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter is a unique commemorative coin issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of American Independence. It is highly collectible due to its dual-dated obverse and the special colonial drummer boy reverse design created by Jack L. Ahr.

What affects the value of 1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter?

• Mint state condition and lack of surface wear significantly impact the premium over face value.
• The presence of a 'S' mint mark indicating a proof or 40% silver specimen can increase value.
• High-grade uncirculated examples with sharp strikes are more desirable to numismatists.
• Common circulated examples typically hold a value close to their $0.25 face value due to massive production numbers.

How to Identify 1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter?

• Look for the dual date '1776-1976' on the obverse side below Washington's bust.
• Verify the reverse design features a colonial drummer boy and a victory torch surrounded by thirteen stars.
• Check for the absence of a 1975 date, as all quarters struck in 1975 and 1976 carry the Bicentennial design.
• Confirm the composition is copper-nickel clad for standard circulation strikes.

History of 1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter

In preparation for the United States Bicentennial, Congress authorized new reverse designs for the quarter, half dollar, and dollar in 1974. The quarter, designed by Jack L. Ahr, features a colonial drummer boy on the reverse. All coins struck between July 1975 and December 1976 bear the dual date '1776-1976' rather than the single year of mintage. These coins temporarily replaced the standard Washington Quarter design and were produced in massive quantities for general circulation.