2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter Value: Price and Grading Guide

The 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter is worth anywhere from $0.50 for a circulated version to over $50 for high-grade specimens. Whether you found one in your pocket change or a set from the mint, identifying the specific “S” mint mark is the first step to discovering its true market value.

Overview of the 2016-S Fort Moultrie National Monument Quarter

The 2016 Fort Moultrie at Sullivan’s Island quarter is the 35th release in the America the Beautiful (ATB) Quarters Program. For many collectors, the “S” mint mark makes this specific coin more intriguing than the common “P” or “D” versions found in laundry mats or vending machines. If you are unsure exactly what version you are holding, using a free coin identifier app can quickly clarify if you have a business strike or a proof.

The design features Sergeant William Jasper returning the regimental flag to the ramparts while under fire from British ships during the Revolutionary War. Because the San Francisco Mint produced different types of these quarters—including NIFC (Not Intended for Circulation) business strikes and collectible proofs—the price can vary significantly. By using CoinKnow, you can track the current auction trends for these distinct varieties.

The production numbers for the “S” mint quarters are substantially lower than the hundreds of millions struck at Philadelphia or Denver. This scarcity is a primary driver of the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter value, especially for those in pristine, “Mint State” condition. Investors often look for clear strikes and original luster, which are hallmarks of a valuable modern collectible.

Understanding the Three Types of 2016-S Quarters

When evaluating the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter value, you must first determine which of the three types you possess. The San Francisco Mint struck business strike quarters, clad copper-nickel proof quarters, and 90% silver proof quarters. Each carries a different premium, particularly in the secondary market where collectors aim to complete their ATB sets.

The business strike “S” mint quarters were sold in bags and rolls directly to collectors and were not released into general circulation. If you find one in your change, someone likely broke open a collector roll. On the other hand, the proof coins are easily identified by their mirror-like finish and frosted details. You can find detailed 2016 America the Beautiful quarter price data to compare how this specific San Francisco issue stacks up against its peers.

The most valuable among these is generally the 90% Silver Proof. These coins contain actual precious metal, meaning they have a “floor” price based on the spot price of silver. However, their numismatic value often exceeds the melt value. Identifying the difference between a clad proof and a silver proof can be done by looking at the coin’s edge; a silver coin will not show a copper colored stripe.

Determining the Grade of Your 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter

The condition, or “grade,” of a coin is the single most important factor for modern quarters. Since most of these coins were kept in protected environments, collectors only pay high premiums for nearly perfect specimens. A professional grading service like PCGS or NGC uses a 70-point scale. If your coin is a “Proof 70,” it is essentially flawless.

For business strikes, look for “bag marks”—small scratches that occur when coins rub against each other in mint bags. A 2016-S Fort Moultrie business strike in MS67 (Mint State 67) will command a much higher price than an MS63. Beginners often use the CoinKnow app to upload photos and get an estimate of where their coin might fall on this scale. Knowing the current 2016 quarter market worth helps you decide if it is worth the cost of professional grading.

If you are grading at home, look at the high points of the design: the Sergeant’s shoulder and the flag. If these areas show wear or “flatness,” the coin is considered circulated. For San Francisco quarters, since they weren’t released for general commerce, even a small amount of wear significantly hurts the price.

Auction Records and Market Trends

Market trends for the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter have remained steady. While they are not the “key dates” of the entire US Mint history, they are essential for ATB Quarter completionists. High-grade silver proofs frequently sell on eBay and at major auction houses for $30 to $50.

Rarely, you might find a coin with a perfect grade that reaches over $100 in a competitive auction. However, most casual finders should expect more modest returns. It’s important to monitor live sales because the price of silver can also influence the value of the silver proof versions.

Potential Mint Errors to Look For

While errors on the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter are rare, they can skyrocket a coin’s value. Collectors look for doubling on the lettering (Doubled Die), off-center strikes, or clipped planchets. Because the San Francisco Mint typically has higher quality control for its collector products, errors from this mint are particularly sought after.

One common “modern error” isn’t a strike error but a packaging error, where a silver coin might be placed in a clad set or vice versa. If you notice a 2016-S quarter that looks like a proof but lacks the silver weight, or has a strange “die chip” on the flag, it’s worth investigating further with the CoinKnow database of known errors.

If you find a legitimate “Doubled Die Reverse” (DDR) where the flag or the Sergeant’s features appear blurred or duplicated, you could be looking at a coin worth hundreds of dollars. Always use a magnifying glass (at least 10x) to inspect the details of the Sullivan’s Island scene.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It to Keep?

If you find a 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter, the answer is almost always yes. Since the “S” business strikes were never meant for circulation, they have a built-in rarity compared to the billions of other quarters in your jar. While it might not fund a retirement, it is a piece of American history with a guaranteed premium over its face value.

For those interested in profit, focus on the 90% Silver Proofs. If you can find them in the original government packaging (OGP), they maintain their value best over time. Always store your quarters in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent “toning” or environmental damage, which can lower the grade and the eventual selling price.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if my 2016-S quarter is silver?

A: Check the edge of the coin. If the edge is solid silver/white with no copper-colored stripe, it is likely the 90% silver proof. You can also weigh it; a silver quarter weighs 6.25 grams, while a clad quarter weighs 5.67 grams.

Q: Why isn’t my 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter in my pocket change?

A: The San Francisco Mint primarily produces coins for collectors. The business strike “S” quarters were sold in special bags and rolls. If you found one in circulation, it was likely spent by someone by accident or from a broken collection.

Q: Is there a “W” mint mark for the 2016 Fort Moultrie Quarter?

A: No, the West Point (“W”) mint mark quarters were only released into circulation starting in 2019. For the 2016 series, you will only find “P”, “D”, and “S” mint marks.

Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 2016-S Fort Moultrie Quarter?

A: Prices vary by year, but perfect PR70 Deep Cameo Silver specimens have sold for over $100 in high-end auctions, though $40-$60 is more common for the 2016-S silver issues today.