The 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 in circulated proof condition to over $500 in the highest certified mint states. Finding one of these coins in your pocket change or an old collection is an exciting discovery, especially since the “S” mint mark signifies a special production from the San Francisco Mint.
Understanding the 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter Mint Mark
Most quarters you find in your daily transactions feature a “P” or “D” mint mark, representing Philadelphia or Denver. However, the 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter is unique because it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the standard circulating coins, these were primarily produced for collectors in either Clad or Silver Proof versions. Finding one in general circulation is rare and usually means someone pathologically spent a collector’s item.
If you are unsure whether your quarter is a standard business strike or a special proof, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish the finish and mint mark instantly. The Theodore Roosevelt quarter was the 34th release in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program. It honors the national park in North Dakota, depicting the young Colonel Theodore Roosevelt on a horse against the backdrop of the Little Missouri River.
When you use CoinHix, you can easily track the history of these specific releases. Collectors value the “S” mark because it represents a much lower mintage than the millions of quarters produced in Philly or Denver. While most “S” quarters are found in sets, “uncirculated” versions were also sold in bags and rolls directly from the U.S. Mint, making them prized pieces for those looking to complete a full set of the ATB series.
The Difference Between Clad and Silver Proof Values
Not all “S” quarters are made of the same metal. In 2016, the San Francisco Mint produced both Copper-Nickel Clad proofs and 90% Silver proofs. Identifying which one you have is the first step in determining its market price. The clad version will have a visible copper stripe on the edge, while the silver version will have a solid, shiny white edge.
The current market rates for 2016 quarters suggest that while clad proofs are common, the silver versions carry an inherent bullion value. Even if the coin is damaged, the 90% silver content ensures it is worth at least its weight in precious metal. However, as a collectible, the “numismatic value” often far exceeds the “melt value,” particularly if the coin has a “Deep Cameo” finish.
A Deep Cameo (DCAM) coin has a sharp contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirror-like background fields. These are the most desirable types of 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarters. If you find one that looks exceptionally shiny with no visible scratches, it might be worth sending to a grading service like PCGS or NGC to secure its maximum value.
2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter Price Table
To give you a better idea of what your coin might be worth, we have compiled a price guide based on recent auction data and market trends. Keep in mind that professional grading significantly impacts these numbers.
| Condition/Grade | Clad Proof Value | 90% Silver Proof Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR 65 (Typical Proof) | $3.00 | $12.00 |
| PR 68 (Near Perfect) | $10.00 | $25.00 |
| PR 69 (Superb) | $18.00 | $45.00 |
| PR 70 (Perfect) | $45.00 | $160.00+ |
High Grade Rarities and Auction Records
While standard values are modest, high-grade specimens from the San Francisco Mint can reach surprising heights. For instance, a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo silver quarter can sell for hundreds of dollars at major auctions. Collectors often engage in bidding wars for these perfect coins to reach the top of “Registry Sets,” which are competitive collections of the finest known examples.
If you are looking at comprehensive 2016 coinage price data, you will see that rarity is driven by the population of graded coins. Even a tiny hairline scratch that is invisible to the naked eye can drop a coin’s value from $100 down to $10. This is why professional handling is crucial for “S” mint marked quarters.
Using the CoinHix app allows you to stay updated on these auction results in real-time. Since market trends fluctuate based on collector demand and the price of silver, having a digital tool to monitor your portfolio is essential. The 2016 Theodore Roosevelt design is particularly popular among fans of American history, which helps sustain its value over other more obscure national park designs.
Factors That Influence Your Quarter Value
The most significant factor for the 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter is the “strike.” Since these coins were intended for collectors, the U.S. Mint took extra care in the striking process. However, even among proofs, variations in quality exist. A coin with a “weak strike” may show less detail on Roosevelt’s horse or the river in the background, making it less valuable than a sharp, crisp strike.
Post-mint damage is the enemy of value. If your quarter has been sitting in a jar with other coins, it likely has “bag marks” or “chatter.” For a 2016-S coin to retain its high value, it must be kept in a protective capsule or its original mint packaging. Fingerprints are also a major issue; the oils from your skin can permanently etch into the surface of a proof coin, ruining the mirror finish.
Finally, consider the “S” Mint Uncirculated strikes. These are not proofs—they have a matte look similar to what you find in change, but they feature the “S” mark. These were only sold in rolls and bags and were never released to banks for general circulation. Many people mistake these for common quarters, but their low mintage makes them a hidden gem for anyone scanning their pocket change or using CoinHix to identify their latest finds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell if my 2016 S Roosevelt Quarter is silver?
A: The easiest way is to look at the edge of the coin. If the edge is solid silver/white with no copper-colored stripe, it is 90% silver. Additionally, silver quarters weigh more (6.25 grams) than clad quarters (5.67 grams).
Q: Is the 2016 S Quarter rare?
A: While not “rare” in the sense of being one-of-a-kind, it is much scarcer than the “P” and “D” versions. The “S” mint mark was only produced for collectors, so finding one in circulation is considered a lucky find.
Q: Can I spend a 2016 S Theodore Roosevelt Quarter?
A: Yes, it is legal tender worth 25 cents. However, it is worth at least $1.00 to $15.00 or more to a collector, so spending it at face value is not recommended!
Q: Where is the mint mark located?
A: The mint mark is located on the “obverse” (heads) side of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail and just below the “In God We Trust” motto. Look for a small “S.”
