Have you ever wondered if that old quarter jingling in your pocket could be worth more than its face value? If you're holding a 1958 quarter, you might just be in possession of a small numismatic gem. Let's dive deep into the world of 1958 quarters and explore their history, features, and potential worth.
A Journey Through Time: The 1958 Quarter's Historical Context
The 1958 quarter is a part of the iconic Washington quarter series, which began its journey in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. These quarters, including the 1958 issue, were crafted from a 90% silver and 10% copper alloy, a composition that remained unchanged until 1965.
In 1958, quarters were minted at two locations:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
Additionally, the Philadelphia Mint produced proof versions for collectors, adding another layer of interest for numismatists.
Anatomy of a 1958 Quarter: Design and Features
Obverse Design: A Presidential Portrait
The obverse (front) of the 1958 quarter showcases:
- A profile portrait of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan
- The word "LIBERTY" prominently displayed above the portrait
- The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left of Washington's neck
- The date "1958" below the portrait
Reverse Design: American Symbolism
The reverse (back) features:
- An eagle with outstretched wings, symbolizing strength and freedom
- The phrases "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "QUARTER DOLLAR" encircling the design
- The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of Many, One) above the eagle
- An olive branch clutched in the eagle's talons, representing peace
Physical Characteristics: The Silver Standard
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 6.3 grams
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Edge: Reeded (a security feature to prevent clipping)
The 1958 Quarter Value Guide: From Pocket Change to Prized Possession
The value of a 1958 quarter can vary significantly based on its condition, mint mark, and other factors. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:
1958 No Mint Mark Quarter (Philadelphia)
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $5.50 |
| Fine (F-12) | $6.00 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $7.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $8.00 |
| MS60 (Uncirculated) | $11 |
| MS65 (Gem Uncirculated) | $30 |
| MS67 (Superb Gem) | $100 |
1958-D Quarter (Denver)
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $5.50 |
| Fine (F-12) | $6.00 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $7.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $8.00 |
| MS60 (Uncirculated) | $11 |
| MS65 (Gem Uncirculated) | $34 |
| MS67 (Superb Gem) | $200 |
1958 Proof Quarter
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR60 | $8 |
| PR65 | $24 |
| PR67 | $32 |
| PR69 | $190 |
Note: Cameo and Deep Cameo proof coins can command higher premiums, sometimes fetching 20-50% more than their standard proof counterparts.
Factors Influencing Value: The Devil in the Details
Several factors can significantly impact the value of a 1958 quarter:
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Condition: The better the condition, the higher the value. This is why uncirculated coins command such a premium.
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Mint Mark: Denver quarters are slightly more valuable in high grades, likely due to lower mintage numbers.
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Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable to collectors.
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Luster: Coins with original mint luster, especially those with a cartwheel effect, are worth more.
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Toning: Natural, attractive toning can increase a coin's value. Rainbow toning is particularly prized.
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Errors: Mint errors can dramatically increase a coin's value (more on this later).
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Historical Significance: As these coins age, their historical value tends to increase.
Rare 1958 Quarter Errors: When Mistakes Become Treasures
Mint errors can turn an ordinary 1958 quarter into a highly sought-after rarity. Some notable errors include:
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Full Brockage Error: A 1958 proof quarter with a mirror image of the obverse on the reverse sold for an astounding $12,000 at auction.
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Wrong Planchet Error: A 1958 quarter struck on a nickel planchet (the metal disc used to make coins) fetched nearly $900.
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Double Die Errors: These occur when the die used to strike the coin is doubled during the hubbing process, resulting in a doubled image.
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Off-Center Strikes: When a coin is struck off-center, part of the design may be missing, and part of the planchet remains blank.
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Clipped Planchets: These errors occur when part of the planchet is missing before striking, resulting in an incomplete coin.
According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), error coins can sell for anywhere from 2 to 100 times their normal value, depending on the severity and rarity of the error.
Grading Your 1958 Quarter: A Key to Determining Value
Grading is crucial in determining a coin's value. Here's a more detailed grading scale:
- Good (G-4): Heavily worn. Washington's head outline and date are visible, but most hair details are gone.
- Very Good (VG-8): Moderate wear. All lettering is clear, and some hair detail is visible.
- Fine (F-12): Light wear on high points. More hair detail is visible, and the eagle's wing feathers start to show.
- Very Fine (VF-20): Light wear, but all major features are sharp. Most of Washington's hair details are clear.
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Minor wear on high points. Almost all details are sharp, with just slight flatness on highest points.
- About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): Slight wear or rub on highest points. Most mint luster is intact.
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No wear, ranging from many marks (MS-60) to perfect (MS-70). MS-65 and above are considered gem quality.
For the most accurate grading, consider having your coin professionally evaluated by a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC. Their expertise can make a significant difference in determining your coin's true value.
Collecting 1958 Quarters: Tips from the Experts
If you're interested in collecting 1958 quarters, here are some expert tips:
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Study Grading: Understanding coin grading is crucial. Invest time in learning the nuances of grading Washington quarters.
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Buy from Reputable Dealers: Ensure authenticity and fair pricing by purchasing from established, reputable coin dealers.
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Consider Certified Coins: For valuable pieces, buy coins graded and encapsulated by professional grading services.
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Look for Quality: Focus on coins with good eye appeal, even in lower grades. A well-preserved VF coin can be more desirable than a heavily marked AU coin.
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Be Patient: Building a quality collection takes time. Don't rush into purchases; wait for the right coins at the right prices.
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Join a Coin Club: Local coin clubs can provide valuable knowledge, networking opportunities, and access to coins not available in the general market.
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Attend Coin Shows: These events offer opportunities to see a wide variety of coins and learn from experienced collectors and dealers.
Preserving Your 1958 Quarter: Maintaining Value Over Time
To maintain your coin's value:
- Handle coins by their edges, avoiding touching the surfaces to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the coin.
- Store in non-PVC holders or albums. PVC can react with the coin's metal over time, causing damage.
- Keep coins in a cool, dry environment to prevent environmental damage.
- Avoid cleaning your coins. Improper cleaning can significantly reduce their value.
- Consider using cotton gloves when handling high-grade or valuable coins.
The Future of 1958 Quarter Values: A Numismatic Crystal Ball
While predicting the future of coin values is challenging, several factors suggest that 1958 quarters may continue to appreciate:
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Silver Content: As of 2023, the silver melt value of a 1958 quarter is around $4.50. As silver prices rise, so does the base value of these coins.
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Historical Significance: As these coins age, their historical value increases. They represent a tangible link to mid-20th century America.
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Finite Supply: The number of high-grade 1958 quarters is limited and decreasing as coins are lost or damaged over time.
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Increasing Collector Interest: As more people discover coin collecting, demand for key dates and high-grade examples may increase.
According to data from PCGS, the value of MS-65 1958 quarters has increased by approximately 20% over the past decade, outpacing inflation.
Conclusion: The Hidden Value of a 1958 Quarter
The 1958 quarter is more than just pocket change – it's a piece of American history with potential numismatic value. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious about that old coin you found, understanding the factors that influence its worth can be both fascinating and potentially rewarding.
Remember, while some 1958 quarters can be quite valuable, most circulated examples are worth their silver content, which is still several times their face value. However, the thrill of coin collecting isn't just about monetary value – it's about connecting with history, appreciating craftsmanship, and enjoying the hunt for that special coin.
So, the next time you come across a 1958 quarter, take a closer look. You might just be holding a small silver treasure in your hands! Whether it's worth $5 or $500, each 1958 quarter tells a story of America's past and offers a tangible connection to history that's becoming increasingly rare in our digital age.
