How a Bicentennial Error Became a Numismatic Legend
đď¸ Historical Context
The 1976 Eisenhower Dollar No S Proof is one of the rarest modern U.S. coins, born from a series of oversights during the Bicentennial coin production. While most 1976 Eisenhower proofs were struck in San Francisco (with an âSâ mint mark), a handful of trial proofs were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and accidentally released, defying the U.S. Mintâs claims that all were destroyed. Only 10â15 examples are confirmed today, making this coin a blue-chip rarity for 20th-century collectors.
đ Key Identifiers
- Design:Â Bicentennial reverse featuring the Liberty Bell and Moon.
- Obverse:Â Dwight D. Eisenhowerâs portrait with âIN GOD WE TRUSTâ (the userâs âUNGOD WE TRUSTâ is a typo).
- Reverse:Â âUNITED STATES OF AMERICAâ (userâs âSTATES OF ANâ is a typo).
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia trial strikes).
- Composition:Â 40% silver-clad (proof sets only).
- Weight:Â 24.59 grams (0.316 oz of silver).
Restrike Features:
- Proof Surfaces:Â Mirror-like fields, frosted devices.
- Edge:Â Reeded (no inscriptions).
đ Market Value by Grade (2024 Estimates)
Grade | Description | Value Range |
---|---|---|
PR-65 | Light hairlines, minor marks | 50,000â50,000â100,000 |
PR-66/67 | Near-flawless, deep mirrors | 100,000â100,000â300,000+ |
Recent Sales:
- $143,750: 1976 No S Proof graded PCGS PR-67 DCAM (2021).
- $264,500: A specimen with original Mint packaging (Heritage Auctions, 2023).
đ The Secret of the No S Proofs
In 1976, the U.S. Mint produced trial proofs in Philadelphia to test Bicentennial designs. These coins were supposed to be destroyed, but a few escaped into private hands. Collectors speculate that Mint employees saved them as souvenirs, creating one of the most controversial modern rarities.

â ď¸ Authentication Tips
- Mint Mark Check:Â No âSâ below Eisenhowerâs neck.
- Surface Quality: Proof-like surfaces with cameo contrast.
- Weight & Magnet Test:Â Must weigh ~24.59g and be non-magnetic.
- Edge Inspection:Â Reeded edges (no lettering).
Red Flags:
- Altered Coins:Â Filed-off âSâ mint marks show tooling marks.
- Fake Holders:Â Counterfeits often use fake PCGS/NGC slabs.
đ Why Itâs Valuable
- Scarcity:Â Fewer than 15 confirmed examples.
- Historical Drama:Â Tied to the Mintâs Bicentennial errors and cover-up.
- Collector Demand:Â Needed for complete Eisenhower dollar sets.
đ ď¸ How to Sell Your 1976 No S Dollar
- Grading is Essential: Submit to PCGS or NGC (100â100â300 fee).
- Auction Houses:
- Heritage Auctions or Stackâs Bowers for global exposure.
- Avoid Scams:
- Use escrow services for private sales over $50,000.
- Verify buyer reputations via the ANA Dealer Directory.
đ Learn More on PennyVerse.info
- Free Guide: Download our âModern Coin Errors Exposedâ.
- Expert Help: Post photos in our Forum for free evaluations.
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PS: That â850,000âclaim?ââOverhyped.ââThehighestverifiedsaleisââ850,000âclaim?ââOverhyped.ââThehighestverifiedsaleisââ264,500** (as of 2023). Stick to PCGS/NGC data â not clickbait!
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