In the fascinating world of numismatics, even the most unassuming coins can hold surprising value. The 1967 Washington quarter, a coin that many might overlook, is one such example that continues to intrigue both seasoned collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. But what's the real story behind this seemingly ordinary piece of change? Let's embark on a journey to uncover the true worth of the 1967 quarter and explore its place in American coinage history.
The Historical Context of the 1967 Quarter
To truly appreciate the 1967 quarter, we must first understand its historical significance:
- The Washington quarter series began in 1932, commemorating the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth.
- By the mid-1960s, the United States faced a severe coin shortage, prompting significant changes in coin production.
- Between 1965 and 1967, the U.S. Mint implemented several measures to combat hoarding and speculation:
- Removal of mint marks from coins
- Transition from silver to copper-nickel clad composition for quarters
These changes make the 1967 quarter a unique specimen in the series, marking a transitional period in American coinage.
Physical Characteristics and Composition
Understanding the physical attributes of the 1967 quarter is crucial for proper identification and valuation:
Obverse (Front) Design:
- Left-facing profile of George Washington
- Inscription "LIBERTY" at the top
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left
- Date "1967" at the bottom
Reverse (Back) Design:
- Spread-winged eagle
- "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top
- "E PLURIBUS UNUM" below
- "QUARTER DOLLAR" at the bottom
Technical Specifications:
- Composition: Copper core (91.67%) with copper-nickel cladding (8.33%)
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Edge: Reeded (ridged)
- Thickness: 1.75 mm
Notably, all 1967 quarters lack a mint mark, regardless of which U.S. Mint facility produced them.
Factors Influencing the 1967 Quarter's Value
Several key factors determine the worth of a 1967 quarter:
- Condition: The coin's grade is the most crucial factor in assessing its value.
- Errors: Certain minting errors can significantly increase a coin's worth.
- Special Mint Sets: Coins from these sets often command a premium.
- Rarity: While not rare overall, some variations are scarcer than others.
- Market Demand: Collector interest and overall market trends play a role.
Let's delve deeper into each of these factors to gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes a 1967 quarter valuable.
Grading and Condition: The Key to Value
The condition of a 1967 quarter is paramount in assessing its value. Professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) use a 70-point scale, but for simplicity, here's a breakdown of common grades:
| Grade | Description | Key Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4 to G-6) | Heavily worn but major details visible | Date and lettering legible, rim intact |
| Fine (F-12 to F-15) | Moderate wear, some fine details visible | Some hair detail on Washington, partial feather detail on eagle |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45) | Light wear, most details sharp | Most hair and feather details clear, some luster may remain |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58) | Minimal wear, full detail, some luster | Slight wear on high points, majority of luster intact |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70) | No wear, varying degrees of luster and contact marks | Full luster, no wear, graded on strike, luster, and surface preservation |
For 1967 quarters, pay special attention to Washington's hair and the eagle's feathers, as these areas often show wear first.
Value Guide for 1967 Quarters
Based on extensive market research and recent auction data, here's a detailed value guide for 1967 quarters:
| Grade | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Good (G-4 to VG-8) | $0.25 – $0.35 |
| Fine to Very Fine (F-12 to VF-20) | $0.35 – $0.50 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45) | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58) | $1.00 – $3.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63) | $3.00 – $10.00 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-64 to MS-65) | $10.00 – $30.00 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-66 and above) | $30.00 – $150.00+ |
Note: These values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market conditions and individual coin characteristics.
Special Mint Set (SMS) 1967 Quarters: A Cut Above the Rest
In 1967, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets instead of regular proof sets. These SMS coins often command a significant premium:
| SMS Grade | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| SMS Uncirculated | $5.00 – $15.00 |
| SMS Cameo | $15.00 – $50.00 |
| SMS Deep Cameo | $50.00 – $200.00+ |
The cameo and deep cameo designations refer to the contrast between the frosted design elements and mirrored fields, with deep cameo showing the most striking contrast.
Valuable 1967 Quarter Errors: Where the Real Money Lies
Errors can dramatically increase a 1967 quarter's value. Some notable errors to look out for include:
-
Off-Center Strikes:
- Minor (5-10% off-center): $25 – $50
- Moderate (20-50% off-center): $50 – $150
- Major (50%+ off-center with full date visible): $150 – $500+
-
Double Die Errors:
- Minor doubling: $25 – $50
- Moderate doubling: $50 – $150
- Major doubling: $150 – $500+
-
Struck on Wrong Planchet:
- Quarter struck on a dime planchet: $200 – $500
- Quarter struck on a foreign coin planchet: $500 – $1,000+
-
Clipped Planchet:
- Minor clip: $10 – $25
- Major clip: $25 – $100
-
Die Cracks and Cuds:
- Minor die cracks: $5 – $20
- Major die cuds: $50 – $200+
Is Your 1967 Quarter a Hidden Gem?
While most 1967 quarters are worth their face value, there are exceptions that could make your coin a valuable find:
- High-Grade Uncirculated Coins: MS-66 and above can fetch $50 to $150+
- Special Mint Set Specimens: Deep Cameo examples can sell for $100 to $300+
- Major Error Coins: Some rare errors could be worth thousands of dollars
How to Assess Your 1967 Quarter's Value
To determine if your 1967 quarter is worth more than face value:
- Examine it under good lighting, preferably with a magnifying glass
- Look for signs of wear, particularly on Washington's hair and the eagle's feathers
- Check for any errors or unusual features
- Compare its condition to professional grading standards
- Consult recent sale prices for similar coins on platforms like Heritage Auctions or eBay
For potentially valuable specimens, consider having them professionally graded by PCGS or NGC.
Preserving Your 1967 Quarter's Value
If you believe you have a valuable 1967 quarter:
- Handle it by the edges, avoiding touching the faces
- Store it in a non-PVC holder or flip
- Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity
- Consider professional conservation for damaged coins
- Avoid cleaning the coin, as improper cleaning can significantly reduce its value
The Collector's Perspective: Why 1967 Quarters Matter
As a seasoned U.S. coin collecting expert, I can attest to the enduring appeal of the 1967 quarter. While not as rare as some other dates in the Washington quarter series, the 1967 issue represents a crucial transitional period in American coinage. Its lack of mint mark and clad composition make it a tangible piece of numismatic history, reflecting the economic challenges and policy changes of the mid-1960s.
For collectors, the 1967 quarter offers an accessible entry point into the world of numismatics. Its relative affordability in lower grades allows beginners to start building a collection without significant investment. Meanwhile, the hunt for high-grade specimens and rare errors provides excitement for more advanced collectors.
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of the 1967 Quarter
While most 1967 quarters you encounter will be worth only their face value, the potential for discovering a valuable specimen makes them worth a second look. Whether you're a dedicated numismatist or simply curious about the coins in your pocket, understanding the nuances of the 1967 quarter can be both educational and potentially rewarding.
Remember, the true value of coin collecting extends beyond monetary worth. Each coin tells a story of its time, reflecting the economic, political, and social climate of its era. The 1967 quarter, with its unique place in U.S. coinage history, serves as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in American numismatics.
So, the next time you come across a 1967 quarter, take a moment to appreciate its history and craftsmanship. Who knows? You might just be holding a small piece of numismatic treasure in your hands.
