In 1975 and 1976, the U.S. Mint issued a special Washington quarter to celebrate the nation’s Bicentennial — 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This coin formed part of a three‑denomination commemorative series that also included a half dollar and a dollar. Instead of the standard reverse, the quarter bore a one‑time‑only design to honor the 1776–1976 milestone. While it passed through countless hands in circulation, it also found a permanent place in coin albums and personal collections, preserving its patriotic spirit for generations.
The obverse continued to feature John Flanagan’s well‑known bust of George Washington, but the date was replaced with a dual “1776–1976” inscription to signify the anniversary years.
The reverse, designed by Jack L. Ahr, presents a colonial drummer in uniform — a tribute to the citizen‑soldiers of the Revolutionary War. A victory torch, framed by 13 stars for the original colonies, appears at his side. The design’s blend of symbolism and history was chosen through a nationwide design competition, ensuring the final product reflected public and artistic input.
1976 Washington Quarter: Bicentennial Design
To guarantee these coins were available to everyone, the Mint struck them in enormous numbers across multiple facilities — all carrying the same dual date.
Philadelphia (no mint mark, clad): 809,784,016
Denver (“D” mint mark, clad): 860,118,839
San Francisco (“S” mint mark):
This production run, spanning both 1975 and 1976, makes the Bicentennial quarter one of the most widely distributed commemoratives in U.S. history.
The Bicentennial coin program was created to immerse the public in the spirit of the 200th anniversary while sparking interest in numismatics. These quarters circulated actively, but a large portion was removed from commerce early, tucked away in keepsake jars, Mint sets, or display cases. For many Americans, this “drummer boy quarter” was the first commemorative coin they ever encountered.
Although over a billion clad versions were made, the Bicentennial quarter continues to be a staple for collectors due to its symbolic design and nostalgic value.
Current value ranges (2025):
While some collectors pursue mint errors for rarity and uniqueness, no major, widely recognized error varieties have been recorded for this coin. The high‑volume, quality‑controlled production meant relatively few striking flaws. In most cases, value comes from silver content, condition, or the scarcity of perfect‑grade proofs rather than from mistakes at the Mint.
The next landmark anniversary is just around the corner: America’s 250th birthday in 2026. For that year, the U.S. Mint will issue five new quarter reverses, each honoring a defining chapter in the nation’s story:
These designs will be struck only in 2026, creating a modern‑day parallel to the 1976 Bicentennial program. In addition, fresh reverse designs are expected for the cent, nickel, dime, and half dollar — each telling a unique aspect of the American experience through art.
From its colonial drummer motif to its widespread circulation, the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is more than a coin — it’s a small, tangible piece of American heritage. As the Semiquincentennial approaches, collectors have a rare opportunity to draw connections between two landmark coin series issued 50 years apart. Whether preserved for its patriotic message, artistic merit, or place in a complete quarter collection, this commemorative remains a timeless symbol of national pride, etched in metal for future generations.