When did the 'genuine' grade coins come out?

In 1975 and 1976, a special series of coins was minted in the United States. These coins featured a dual date of 1776-1976. This unique dating was not just an arbitrary choice but held significant historical value.

The primary purpose of these coins was to commemorate the Bicentennial of the United States. It marked the 200th anniversary of the country's founding, a significant milestone in American history. The coins were designed to evoke a sense of pride and patriotism among the citizens.

As commemorative coins, they were intended for circulation among the general population. This meant that they were not just collector's items but were meant to be used in daily transactions, thus spreading the message of the Bicentennial celebration far and wide.

In recent times, the PCGS coin grading company has taken a special interest in these coins. They have identified certain coins from this series as particularly problematic due to various factors such as wear, damage, or rarity.

To address this issue, PCGS has adopted a practice of encapsulating these problematic coins. This involves placing the coins in a protective slab that not only preserves their condition but also provides a clear view for collectors and investors.