Diagnostic Controls & Presets Bicentennial Reverse Hub Diagnostic • Clad & Silver Guide
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Type 1 vs Type 2 Reverse Master Hub Revision
In late 1974, the U.S. Mint began striking Bicentennial dollars with Master Die #1 (Type 1), featuring thick sans-serif lettering. Mint engraver Frank Gasparro reworked the master die into Type 2 in 1975 to improve metal flow:
Because Type 1 dollars suffered from high die wear and metal striking resistance, few survived in Superb Gem condition (MS-66 and higher), creating massive auction premiums.
Planchet Weight & Edge Testing
Bicentennial dollars were struck in both standard cupronickel clad and 40% silver composition:
All 40% silver Bicentennial dollars carry the 'S' mintmark from San Francisco, while Philadelphia and Denver coins were exclusively clad.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Heritage Auctions Signature Sale. Extraordinary condition rarity for the thick-lettering Type 1 issue, featuring satiny blazing luster.
Common thin-lettering Type 2 issue from Denver/Philly, abundant due to superior master hub strike dynamics.
Special collector issue struck on 40% silver clad planchet sealed in original red envelope packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Bicentennial Dollars?
Type 1 coins have thick, bold, block-style letters with low relief on the reverse inscription 'STATES OF AMERICA'. Type 2 coins have thinner, narrower, elegant serif lettering designed to strike more cleanly.
Why is the 1976 Type 1 Eisenhower Dollar worth so much more in high grade?
Type 1 coins were struck first with low-relief dies that required immense pressure, causing dies to degrade rapidly. As a result, few pristine uncirculated examples survived, making MS-66 specimens worth thousands.
Are 1776-1976 Bicentennial quarters worth anything?
Most circulated Bicentennial quarters found in pocket change are common copper-nickel clad coins worth face value (25 cents). Only high uncirculated grades (MS-67+) or rare silver 'S' mint issues carry significant premiums.
How can I tell if my Bicentennial coin is silver?
Look at the edge of the coin: a clad coin shows a distinct reddish copper stripe between two nickel layers, whereas a 40% silver coin has a solid silver-grey edge. Additionally, silver dollars weigh 24.59 grams compared to 22.68 grams for clad.
Were Bicentennial coins struck in 1975?
Yes! No coins were dated 1975 for quarters, halves, or dollars. The U.S. Mint produced coins bearing the dual date '1776-1976' during both calendar years 1975 and 1976.
What does the reverse of the Bicentennial Dollar depict?
The reverse, designed by Dennis R. Williams, depicts the Liberty Bell superimposed against the surface of the Moon, symbolizing two centuries of American progress from colonial independence to lunar exploration.
Do Bicentennial half dollars have Type 1 and Type 2 varieties?
No. The Type 1 and Type 2 reverse hub differences only exist on the Eisenhower Dollar. The Kennedy Half Dollar (Independence Hall reverse) only used one master design.