1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter (S Mint Mark) - Silver Proof Issue
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (San Francisco branch), established 1854
Pattern: Washington Bicentennial Quarter, designed by John Flanagan (obverse) and Jack L. Ahr (reverse), issued 1975-1976
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (San Francisco branch), established 1854
Material
Outer layers of 80% silver and 20% copper bonded to an inner core of 20.9% silver and 79.1% copper; total silver content is 40% (.1479 troy oz net silver)
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm; Weight: 5.75 grams (heavier than the 5.67g copper-nickel version)
Description
An iconic commemorative coin featuring the dual date 1776-1976. This specific S-mint variant was sold in dedicated collector sets rather than intended for general circulation. It represents a rare mid-20th-century return to silver content for American circulating-style coinage.
Key Features
Dual-date obverse; Drummer Boy reverse design; 'S' mint mark; 40% silver composition distinguishing it from the common copper-nickel clad versions
Material & Composition
Outer layers of 80% silver and 20% copper bonded to an inner core of 20.9% silver and 79.1% copper; total silver content is 40% (.1479 troy oz net silver)
Finish & Decoration
Proof finish with frosted relief and mirror-like fields; features George Washington on the obverse and a colonial drummer with a victory torch on the reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small "S" mint mark located to the right of Washington's ponytail, signifying the San Francisco Mint; dual-dated "1776-1976" on the obverse
Construction Details
Dual-cladded planchet, die-struck using high-pressure proofing presses to ensure crisp detail and reflective surfaces
Functional Features
Reeded edge (milled edge); legal tender denomination of 25 cents
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (numismatic object)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking of the San Francisco Mint; high-relief features consistent with proof-set standards of the 1970s
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the 'S' mint mark alongside the lack of a copper-colored 'sandwich' edge streak usually confirms the silver-clad composition for this issue
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; San Francisco Mint, California
Era & Period
U.S. Bicentennial Era (Mid-1970s); Modern Numismatic Period
Age Estimate
Struck between 1975 and 1976 for the 200th anniversary of American independence
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the 200th anniversary of the United States; a major milestone in American numismatic history that introduced millions of citizens to coin collecting
Condition Notes
Appears to be in Very Good to Excellent condition with light surface contact marks; maintainer of original luster; no significant 'milk spots' or heavy oxidation visible
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 for raw specimens; significantly higher for high-grade specimens certified by NGC or PCGS (PR69/70)
Care & Maintenance
Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival-safe capsule; handle only by the edges with lint-free gloves
Similar Pieces
1776-1976 Copper-Nickel Clad Quarter (no silver); 1776-1976 Silver Bicentennial Half Dollar; 1776-1976 Silver Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar
Interesting Facts
The Bicentennial quarter was the first circulating commemorative coin in U.S. history. Over 11 million 40% silver sets were minted to satisfy collector demand