In 1776, the Continental Congress issued a Continental dollar coin to help finance the Revolutionary War . However, these coins were easily counterfeited and not backed by precious metals like silver or gold, causing them to depreciate and become practically worthless by the end of the war. Because of this, authentic 1776 Continental dollars are extremely rare and highly valued today. The value of a genuine 1776 Continental dollar depends heavily on its condition and specific type (some were made of brass, pewter, or silver).
In 1976, the U.S. Mint produced special Bicentennial versions of the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coins to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. These coins feature the dual date “1776-1976”.
The 1776-1976 dollar coins, often referred to as “Eisenhower Dollars” or “Ike Dollars”, feature a portrait of President Dwight D. Eisenhower on the obverse and a design of the Liberty Bell superimposed over the moon on the reverse. There are several varieties of these coins, including copper-nickel clad versions (for circulation) and 40% silver-clad versions (for collectors).
The value of a 1776-1976 Eisenhower dollar coin depends on several key factors:
- Condition: Uncirculated (like new) coins are generally more valuable than circulated (used) coins. Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors, can also fetch higher prices.
- Composition: Silver-clad versions, especially those in uncirculated condition, tend to be more valuable than the more common copper-nickel clad coins.
- Mint Mark: Coins minted in different locations (Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S)) can have different values. For example, a 1776-1976 S Silver dollar in uncirculated condition has a melt value of $12.19 as of August 2025, according to the NGC Price Guide.
- Errors: Some 1776-1976 Eisenhower dollars have mint errors, such as filled-in mint marks or double die errors, which can increase their value significantly.
Based on recent data from August 2025:
- A circulated 1776-1976 S SILVER Eisenhower Dollar can be worth between $12.75 and $14.
- An uncirculated 1776-1976 S SILVER Eisenhower Dollar can sell for as much as $7000.
- A circulated 1776-1976 D TYPE 1 Eisenhower Dollar can be worth between $1.05 and $1.50.
- An uncirculated 1776-1976 D TYPE 1 Eisenhower Dollar can sell for as much as $3400.
- A circulated 1776-1976 D TYPE 2 Eisenhower Dollar can be worth between $1.05 and $1.50.
- An uncirculated 1776-1976 D TYPE 2 Eisenhower Dollar can sell for as much as $7500.
- A 1776-1976 Eisenhower Bicentennial Dollar with a filled D mint mark error, described as having circulated but in great condition, is offered for $525.
It is recommended to have any potentially valuable 1776-1976 dollar coin appraised by a reputable coin dealer or grading service for an accurate assessment of its value.
How much is a dollar coin from 1776 worth?
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of July 2025, a Eisenhower Dollar from 1776-1976 S in circulated condition is worth between $12.75 and $14. However, on the open market 1776-1976 S SILVER Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $7000.
How to tell type 1 and type 2 1776-1976 bicentennial dollars apart?
From my experience, Type 1 – The reverse lettering, including the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and “ONE DOLLAR” have a blockier, sans-serif appearance. Type 2 – Reverse lettering is refined with serifs that much more closely resemble the lettering style ordinarily seen on the obverse of the Eisenhower Dollar.
Is a 1776 coin rare?
I can help with that. Today, the 1776 continental coinage is a highly valued rarity as it celebrates the birth of a new nation – the United States and carries immense numismatic value due to its elaborate designs engraved on either side.