United States Bicentennial Coinage
Bicentennial coinage has gotten complicated with all the variety types, silver versus clad debates, and set completion strategies flying around. As someone who has assembled complete Bicentennial collections in multiple compositions, I learned everything there is to know about these 1776-1976 commemoratives. Today, I will share it all with you.
The Program
Probably should have led with this section, honestly—Congress authorized special reverse designs for the quarter, half dollar, and dollar to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. All three denominations bear dual dates: 1776-1976.
The Designs
That’s what makes Bicentennial coins endearing to us collectors—each design won a public competition:
- Quarter: Colonial drummer by Jack L. Ahr
- Half dollar: Independence Hall by Seth G. Huntington
- Dollar: Liberty Bell over moon by Dennis R. Williams
Compositions
- Circulation strikes: Copper-nickel clad (no silver)
- Collector versions: 40% silver, from San Francisco
Silver versions came in proof and uncirculated finishes. Original mint packaging adds collector value.
Mintages and Value
Circulation mintages were enormous—nearly 200 million Ike dollars alone. Clad versions are worth face value unless in high uncirculated grades. Silver issues carry premiums for both metal content and collector demand.
Type 1 vs. Type 2
Early 1975 production (Type 1) features thicker reverse lettering. Later production (Type 2) has thinner, more refined letters. Type 1 coins, especially in high grades, command modest premiums.
Building a Set
A basic Bicentennial set includes one of each denomination in clad. Complete sets add silver proofs, uncirculated silver, and both variety types. Albums specifically for Bicentennial coins make attractive displays.
