The “Liberty Coin 1776 to 1976” likely refers to the Bicentennial coinage issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American Independence . These coins were minted in three denominations: quarters, half dollars, and dollars, all bearing the dual date “1776-1976”. The value of these coins varies depending on several factors:
- Quarter Dollars: Most bicentennial quarters are worth close to their face value ($0.25). However, some quarters with specific characteristics, like those with the “S” mint mark (indicating San Francisco mintage) and made of 40% silver, can fetch between $5 and $15 or more. Quarters in pristine, uncirculated condition can reach up to $6,000. A 1776-1976 D quarter in circulated condition is worth between $0.50 and $1.50, but uncirculated versions can sell for as much as $4,750.
- Half Dollars: Circulated bicentennial half dollars are generally worth between $1.50 and $3. Uncirculated coins in good condition can be valued at $5 to $20, while silver versions, especially those from San Francisco, are worth $20 to $50 or more.
- Dollar Coins: [According to the NGC Price Guide] , as of August 2025, a 1776-1976 S SILVER Eisenhower Dollar in circulated condition is worth between $12.50 and $13.75. However, pristine, uncirculated examples of this coin can sell for as much as $7,000. A Type 2 Eisenhower dollar (featuring a Liberty Bell and moon reverse) can be worth between $1.05 and $1.50 in circulated condition, while uncirculated examples can reach $2,500.
Coins in better condition (with minimal wear and clear details) are generally more desirable and therefore more valuable. Coin grading scales range from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS), with higher grades fetching higher prices.
The mint mark on bicentennial coins indicates where they were produced: “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, and no mint mark for Philadelphia. Coins from San Francisco (“S” mint mark) can be clad or silver, so it’s important to differentiate them to determine their potential value.
Certain errors and varieties can significantly increase the value of a bicentennial coin. Some examples include:
- Double die errors: When a coin is struck twice, creating a doubled image on one or both sides. A 1976-D quarter with a double die obverse showing doubling on “Liberty” and “In God We Trust” can fetch significant premiums, with high-grade examples selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
- Missing mint marks: While Philadelphia-minted quarters typically lack a mint mark, those with an unintentional absence of the mark can be valuable.
- Filled D error: Found on Denver-minted quarters where the “D” mint mark appears filled or partially obscured.
- Off-center strikes: Coins where the design is not perfectly centered.
- Missing clad layer: A rare error where the outer layer of the coin is missing.
It is recommended to consult a reputable coin dealer or use online resources like the NGC Price Guide and specialized coin identifier apps to assess the specific characteristics and potential value of your coin.
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.
What makes a 1776 to 1976 quarter rare?
Good point! All of the coins were inscribed with the dates 1776-1976. According to Chronicle Collectibles, some of the Bicentennial Quarters were clad, meaning they were made of multiple layers of different metals. The rest, however, were composed of 40% silver, and those are the more valuable ones.
What is the rare coin 1776 1976?
Great question! While most of the 1776. To 1976 half dollars are common and were made from a copper nickel clad composition. Some rare silver versions were produced for collectors.