The 1976 one-dollar coin is the Eisenhower Bicentennial dollar , minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American Independence.
Key features of the 1976 Eisenhower dollar include:
- Dual Dates: The coin has “1776-1976” on the obverse (front) below President Eisenhower’s portrait. This was unique for a U.S. circulating coin at the time.
- Reverse Design: The reverse (back) shows the Liberty Bell over the moon, designed by Dennis Williams. This design replaced the Apollo 11 mission patch reverse used for Eisenhower dollars minted between 1971 and 1974.
- Composition: Most 1976 Eisenhower dollars for circulation were copper-nickel clad. Special collector’s editions, minted at the San Francisco Mint with an “S” mint mark, were made of 40% silver.
- Mint Marks: Coins were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D” mint mark), and San Francisco (“S” mint mark).
- Variations (Type I and Type II): There are two types of the 1976 Eisenhower dollar, distinguished by the lettering on the reverse: Type I coins have bold lettering, while Type II coins have thinner, more detailed inscriptions.
The value of a 1976 Eisenhower dollar depends on its condition (circulated or uncirculated), mint mark, and whether it is a clad or silver version.
- As of August 2025, according to the NGC Price Guide:
– 1976 Eisenhower Dollars (Philadelphia mint, Type 1) in circulated condition are worth $1.05 to $1.50, and uncirculated coins can fetch up to $2000.
– 1976-D Eisenhower Dollars (Denver mint, Type 1) in circulated condition are worth between $1.05 and $1.50, and uncirculated coins can be worth up to $3400.
– 1976-D Eisenhower Dollars (Denver mint, Type 2) in circulated condition are worth between $1.05 and $1.50, and uncirculated coins can sell for as much as $7500.
– 1976-S Silver Eisenhower Dollars in circulated condition are worth $12.75 to $14, with uncirculated coins in pristine condition selling for as much as $7000.
Note: The 1976 (Type 2) Proof Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar coin without an “S” mint mark is considered one of the rarest non-error modern coins.
Collectors may find Eisenhower dollars appealing due to their historical significance, unique design, and the affordability of assembling a complete set, according to Littleton Coin.
How much is one dollar in 1976 worth today?
Good point! $1 in 1976 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $5.65 today, an increase of $4.65 over 49 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 3.60% per year between 1976 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 464.96%.