The 1966 Washington Quarter is a U.S. 25-cent coin featuring George Washington on the obverse. It was part of the series minted from 1932 to the present. 1966 was the second year after US Mint stopped producing silver quarters and switched to copper-nickel. The Philadelphia mint (no mint mark quarter) was the only one in the US that produced quarters in 1966. In this article we will discuss 1966 Quarter Value, History and potential errors, and how to determine its worth.
What is the most valuable 1966 quarter?
The pinnacle of 1966 Washington Quarter collectibility was realized at an Auction event in May 2023, where a remarkable specimen achieved a staggering $21,000. This extraordinary price was commanded by a clad quarter graded MS68+, a testament to its pristine, near-flawless condition. Holding the distinction of being the finest known example, this coin underscores the immense value that exceptional grading can bestow upon even common-date issues. While the vast majority of 1966 quarters circulate at face value, this record-breaking sale serves as a vivid illustration of the potential for rare, high-grade coins to achieve remarkable sums, highlighting the critical role of professional grading in determining a coin's true worth.
1966 Washington Quarter Overview
The 1966 Washington Quarter occupies a unique place in U.S. coinage history, marking a transition period. Here's a detailed look:
Historical Context:
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Transition Period:
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The mid-1960s saw a significant shift in U.S. coinage due to rising silver prices. The Coinage Act of 1965 eliminated silver from dimes and quarters, replacing it with a copper-nickel clad composition.
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1966 falls within this period, where the U.S. Mint produced coins without mint marks. This was done to discourage coin collecting during a coin shortage.
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Washington Quarter's Origins:
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The Washington Quarter was first minted in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. It replaced the Standing Liberty Quarter.
Design:
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Obverse: Features a portrait of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan.
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Reverse: Depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings.
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Composition: Copper-nickel clad (91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel).
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Key Feature: Notably, 1966 quarters lack mint marks.
Value:
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Circulated Coins:
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Most circulated 1966 quarters are worth their face value ($0.25). However, they can be worth slightly more to collectors.
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Values of circulated coins are heavily effected by the coins condition.
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Uncirculated Coins:
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Uncirculated examples, especially those in high grades (MS65 and above), can fetch significantly higher prices.
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The value of uncirculated coins is based on the grading of the coin.
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Special Mint Sets (SMS):
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In 1966, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets instead of proof sets. These sets were intended for collectors and feature coins with a higher quality finish than regular circulation coins.
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SMS quarters can vary in value depending on their grade and the presence of "cameo" or "deep cameo" contrast.
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SMS coins that are graded higher, and that have the Cameo or Deep cameo effect, will bring in higher value.
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Grading:
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Coin grading plays a large part of the value of coins. Professional grading services, like PCGS and NGC, assess a coin's condition and assign a grade.
Valuable Errors:
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Struck-Through Errors:
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These occur when a foreign object gets between the die and the planchet during striking.
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The value varies depending on the severity and nature of the error.
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Off-Center Errors:
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These result from a misalignment during striking, causing the design to be off-center.
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The degree of off-centeredness affects the value.
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Struck on Wrong Planchet:
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Though less common, a 1966 quarter struck on a planchet intended for another denomination can be quite valuable.
Values for each condition:
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It is very important to understand that coin values can fluctuate. For the most up to date values, it is best to check with a reputable coin dealer, or professional grading service.
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General value guidelines:
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Circulated: $0.25 to $1.00 (depending on condition)
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Uncirculated (MS60-MS64): $1.50 to $7.50
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Uncirculated (MS65 and higher): $15 and up, with higher grades reaching significant sums.
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SMS coins will generally bring higher values than standard uncirculated coins.
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SMS coins with Cameo or Deep Cameo effects will bring in the highest values.
The 1966 Washington Quarter is a common coin, but uncirculated examples and those with errors can hold collector value. Special Mint Set coins are more valuable than standard circulation strikes. Coin grading is crucial for determining a coin's value.
FAQ
What is the value of a 1966 quarter?
Circulated 1966 quarters are generally worth face value ($0.25). Uncirculated examples and those with errors can be worth significantly more. Special Mint Set (SMS) coins also hold increased value.
Why do 1966 quarters have no mint mark?
In the mid-1960s, the U.S. Mint removed mint marks to discourage coin collecting during a coin shortage.
Are 1966 quarters made of silver?
No, 1966 quarters are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. The switch from silver occurred in 1965.
What are Special Mint Set (SMS) 1966 quarters?
SMS quarters were produced for collectors in 1966, featuring a higher quality finish than regular circulation coins.
How can I tell if my 1966 quarter is valuable?
Look for uncirculated condition, errors (like struck-through or off-center), or if it's an SMS coin. Professional grading can determine precise value.
What errors are found on 1966 quarters?
Common errors include struck-through errors, off-center strikes, and, rarely, being struck on the wrong planchet.
How much are uncirculated 1966 quarters worth?
Values vary based on grade, but uncirculated quarters can range from a few dollars to much higher for high-grade examples.
Where can I sell my 1966 quarter?
You can sell to coin dealers, at coin auctions, or through online platforms.
How does coin grading affect the value of a 1966 quarter?
Coin grading assesses a coin's condition, with higher grades commanding significantly higher values.
What is the most valuable 1966 quarter?
The most valuable 1966 quarters are those in the highest grades, especially SMS coins with deep cameo effects, or those with very noticeable errors. Auction records demonstrate that very high grade examples can bring in thousands of dollars.
*This information is for educational purposes only. Bullion Shark is not responsible for any factual errors that may be contained in this post. This information is not intended for investment purposes. Please consult an investment advisor before investing.