New 2026 Semi-Quincentennial Coin Designs
2026 marks a major milestone in U.S. history — the 250th anniversary (Semi-quincentennial) of the Declaration of Independence — and the U.S. Mint is celebrating with a one-year-only redesign of several circulating coins. These new designs aren’t just cosmetic; they chronicle America’s story and ideals through iconic imagery and themes.
Here’s a breakdown of the new Semi-quincentennial designs you’ll see in your pocket change and in numismatic sets in 2026.
Dual Date & Theme: “1776 ~ 2026”
All new Semi-quincentennial coins — from circulating dimes, quarters, and half dollars to special numismatic issues — will feature a dual date, “1776 ~ 2026,” symbolizing 250 years of American independence.
New Circulating Designs
1. 2026 Emerging Liberty Dime
For the first time in decades, the dime gets a completely new design.
Obverse: A modern portrayal of Lady Liberty, facing forward with resolve, integrating early revolutionary symbolism.
Reverse: An eagle in flight holding arrows, representing the fight for liberty — including the motto “Liberty over Tyranny.”
This design replaces the long-running Roosevelt dime and references early American coinage themes.
Semi-quincentennial Quarters
Instead of a single design, the 2026 quarter program includes five unique designs, each highlighting a distinct historic theme in America’s founding and growth. All will carry the dual date.
• Mayflower Compact Quarter
Celebrates the agreement made by the Pilgrims before landing at Plymouth, featuring imagery of the ship and early settlers.
• Revolutionary War Quarter
Depicts a Continental Army soldier and focuses on the struggle for independence during the war years.
• Declaration of Independence Quarter
Features the Liberty Bell, a live symbol of American freedom and the historic Philadelphia location where the document was adopted.
• U.S. Constitution Quarter
Highlights the nation’s founding charter and Independence Hall, where the deliberations took place.
• Gettysburg Address Quarter
Commemorates President Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech at Gettysburg, honoring unity and sacrifice.
Semi-quincentennial Half Dollar
The half dollar receives a special “Enduring Liberty” design for 2026 only:
Obverse: A close-up view of the Statue of Liberty gazing forward — symbolizing perseverance and hope.
Reverse: Liberty passing her torch to a new generation — inscribed with phrases like “Knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty.”
This marks the first design change for the circulating half in decades.
Penny and Nickel — Special Collector Versions
While traditional pennies and nickels are no longer part of regular circulation beginning in 2025, collectible 2026 penny and nickel products will be issued with the special dual dates and anniversary motifs for collectors to enjoy.
Other Semi-quincentennial Products
Beyond circulating change, the U.S. Mint has announced collectible versions of classic bullion and historic coinage with dual dates and a special “250” Liberty Bell privy mark (including American Silver Eagles, modern Morgan & Peace dollars, and more).
The Mint has also planned Best of the Mint sets pairing historic coin designs (like Mercury Dime and Standing Liberty Quarter) with modern illustrations to further honor America’s numismatic heritage.
Why These Designs Matter
These design changes are the most ambitious circulating coin redesigns since the Bicentennial in 1976, and they tell a broader narrative of American history — from early settlement to constitutional debates, revolutionary struggle, and unity.
Though collectors shouldn’t expect rarity or high premium values like truly old issues (because of anticipated large mintages similar to past circulating commemorative programs), the Semiquincentennial coins celebrate history and are likely to be saved by many Americans simply for the significance of the event.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Semi-quincentennial coin designs offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hold America’s 250-year story in your hands. Between the new dime, the “story” quarters, and the enduring liberty half dollar, these coins reflect evolving ideals and remind us why the nation’s founding continues to resonate.
To track your Semi-quincentennial finds and organize collections around the 1776 ~ 2026 series, visit CoinCollectingTools.com.