1976-S Bicentennial Washington Quarter Value Guide

The 1976-S Bicentennial Washington Quarter is a standout commemorative coin featuring a unique colonial drummer reverse design to celebrate the United States' 200th anniversary. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, these dual-dated '1776-1976' coins are highly collectible due to their limited proof and uncirculated strikes in both clad and 40% silver versions.

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

• Metal composition, as the 40% silver versions generally command a higher premium than the copper-nickel clad 'S' mint strikes.
• The presence of original government packaging or professional grading encapsulation which preserves the coin's condition.
• Surface quality and strike sharpness, with deep cameo proof finishes being particularly desirable for collectors.
• Market demand for Bicentennial era memorabilia and the current spot price of silver for the 40% silver variants.

How to Identify 1976-S Bicentennial Washington Quarter?

• Locate the 'S' mintmark on the obverse side, positioned to the right of Washington's ponytail.
• Check the edge of the coin; a solid silver stripe indicates the 40% silver composition, while a visible copper layer indicates a clad strike.
• Verify the dual date '1776-1976' on the obverse and the colonial drummer design by Jack L. Ahr on the reverse.
• Look for a mirror-like proof finish or a sharp, satin uncirculated luster typical of San Francisco Mint special issues.

History of 1976-S Bicentennial Washington Quarter

To celebrate the United States Bicentennial, the U.S. Mint issued special circulating commemorative designs for the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coins. The Bicentennial Quarter, featuring a colonial drummer on the reverse, was minted from 1975 to 1976, with all coins bearing the dual date '1776-1976'. The San Francisco mint produced both clad and 40% silver proof versions, making certain 'S' mintmark coins highly sought after by collectors, especially those in uncirculated or proof condition.