The value of a 1976 quarter, known as a Bicentennial quarter, can vary significantly depending on several key factors:
- Clad: Most 1976 quarters are clad, meaning they are made of a copper-nickel alloy (91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel). These are the most common type and, if circulated, are generally worth their face value of $0.25.
- 40% Silver: Some 1976 quarters were specially minted for collectors at the San Francisco Mint with 40% silver and 60% copper content. These are rarer and more valuable due to the silver content. To differentiate, clad quarters have a copper-colored stripe along the edge, while silver quarters have a uniform silver-gray color along the edge.
- Circulated: Most Bicentennial quarters that have been in circulation are worth their face value ($0.25).
- Uncirculated: Quarters in excellent, uncirculated condition can be worth more, depending on their grade. For example, a clad 1976 P or D quarter in MS-65 (Mint State-65) condition might be worth $10 – $20. According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a clad 1976 P or D quarter in pristine, uncirculated condition can sell for as much as $1150. A 40% silver 1976-S quarter in uncirculated condition might be worth around $3-$5 based on its silver content, [according to BOLD Precious Metals] . In MS-65 condition, it might be worth $10 – $15, [says BOLD Precious Metals].
- “D” (Denver) or no mint mark (Philadelphia): The value of these quarters generally depends on their condition.
- “S” (San Francisco): The San Francisco Mint produced both clad proof quarters and 40% silver quarters. Proof quarters are typically worth more than circulating quarters, and the 40% silver quarters are more valuable due to their silver content.
- Rare mint errors can significantly increase a quarter’s value. Examples of errors include:
– Doubled Die (DDO/DDR): This error occurs when the coin is struck twice, resulting in a noticeable double image of the design. A 1976 Bicentennial quarter with a double die obverse could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
– Drummer Boy Quarter Error: A variation featuring the drummer boy design on the reverse with specific errors can also be valuable.
– Misaligned Strike or Misprints: Coins with errors like off-center strikes or incorrect features can also be rare and valuable.
While most 1976 Bicentennial quarters are worth their face value of $0.25, certain varieties can be worth significantly more. These include:
- 40% silver quarters: These are distinguished by their uniform silver-gray edge and were minted in San Francisco.
- High-grade, uncirculated clad quarters: The value increases with the grade (condition).
- Quarters with rare minting errors: Errors like doubled die, drummer boy errors, and misprints can drastically increase the value.
It is recommended to have any potentially valuable 1976 quarter inspected by a professional coin grader like PCGS or NGC for an accurate appraisal of its value.
