1776-1976 Bicentennial Washington Quarter
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic) · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco), established 1792.
Pattern: U.S. Bicentennial Coinage (Washington Obverse / Colonial Drummer Reverse)
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic)
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco), established 1792.
Material
Likely Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core of 100% copper). Silver-clad versions (40% silver) were reserved for proof and uncirculated sets.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Weight: 5.67 grams for clad, 5.75 grams for 40% silver variant.
Description
A commemorative circulation quarter released to celebrate the American Bicentennial. It maintains the classic Washington obverse by John Flanagan combined with a special thematic reverse featuring a military drummer and a victory torch encircled by thirteen stars.
Key Features
Dual-dated (1776-1976) on the obverse; Colonial Drummer reverse silhouette; clad composition edge showing a copper stripe (if not the silver variant).
Material & Composition
Likely Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core of 100% copper). Silver-clad versions (40% silver) were reserved for proof and uncirculated sets.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a mirror-like field and satin relief (depending on wear). Features the bust of George Washington on obverse; Jack Ahr's Colonial Drummer design on reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', dual dates '1776-1976'. Mint mark (P, D, or S) usually located to the right of Washington's braid.
Construction Details
Die-struck/Machine-milled using a vertical press. Clad coinage consists of two outer layers bonded to a solid copper core.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (119 reeds) to prevent debasement and counterfeiting; legal tender currency.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic object.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced industrial coinage; die consistency is high with minor variations in strike strength across different mints.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive dual dating; sharp strike on the 'Liberty' lettering; copper core visible on the edge (unless 40% silver proof); exact 24.26mm diameter.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mark), or San Francisco (S mark).
Era & Period
U.S. Bicentennial era (Mid-1970s), specifically minted in 1975 and 1976.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1975 and 1976 for the 200th anniversary of the United States.
Cultural Significance
Represents the patriotic fervor of the 1970s and is a staple of 'attic find' coin collecting, marking 200 years of American independence.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible contact marks, minor surface scratches, and typical bag marks. Some light tarnish/toning around the lettering; Fine to Very Fine grade.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25) in circulated condition. Uncirculated or rare silver-clad 'S' mint proofs may range from $2.00 to $20.00+ depending on grade.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are advised never to clean coins with abrasives or silver polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules.
Similar Pieces
1976 Bicentennial Half Dollar (JFK) and Bicentennial Dollar (Eisenhower), both also featuring dual dates and unique reverse motifs.
Interesting Facts
Over 1.5 billion were minted. No quarters were dated 1975; all quarters produced in 1975 were dual-dated 1776-1976. It was the first time the reverse of the quarter was changed since 1932.