The 1966 Washington Quarter is an important piece of American coin history. Even though millions were made, certain rare features and high-quality examples make some of these coins valuable to collectors. Let’s dive into its history, value, and notable details.
What Makes the 1966 Washington Quarter Special?
In 1966, the U.S. Mint was working hard to meet the demand for coins. Just the year before, there was a coin shortage due to people hoarding silver coins. By 1966, quarters no longer contained silver; instead, they were made from a copper-nickel clad composition.
This shift in materials was a major change in U.S. coinage history. All 1966 quarters were made at the Philadelphia Mint, which makes them unique because they don’t have a mint mark.
How Many Were Made?
A total of 821,101,500 Washington Quarters were minted in 1966. While this is a large number, it’s less than the 1.8 billion quarters made in 1965. Some of these coins are still found in circulation today, especially in well-preserved “almost uncirculated” condition.
How Much is a 1966 Washington Quarter Worth?
The value of a 1966 quarter depends on its condition, also known as its grade. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- MS-60 to MS-62: Coins with noticeable wear; worth about $0.25 (face value).
- MS-63: Minor imperfections; worth around $8.
- MS-64: Minimal flaws; valued at $10.
- MS-65: Sharp details with very few flaws; worth $16.
- MS-66: High-quality examples; valued at $30.
- MS-67: Extremely rare and pristine; worth up to $285.
Errors and Rare Finds
Some 1966 quarters are more valuable because of rare errors or features:
- Die Cracks: Flaws caused during the minting process.
- Off-Center Strikes: Coins struck incorrectly, creating unique designs.
- Double Dies: A double strike that results in a slightly doubled design.
- High-Grade Examples: Coins in MS-67 grade or higher are extremely rare and valuable.
Top Auction Records
The highest-quality 1966 quarters (graded MS-67) have sold for up to $285 at auctions. This shows how much collectors are willing to pay for rare, well-preserved examples.
The 1966 Washington Quarter is a fascinating coin with historical significance. While most are worth face value, high-grade examples or coins with rare errors can be valuable. Whether you’re a collector or just curious about coins, understanding these details can make this coin even more interesting.
1. Why were 1966 quarters made without silver?
Silver was removed to lower production costs during a period of high coin demand.
2. How can I tell if my 1966 quarter is valuable?
Look for its condition (grade) and errors like die cracks, double dies, or off-center strikes.
3. Why don’t 1966 quarters have a mint mark?
All 1966 quarters were made at the Philadelphia Mint, which didn’t use mint marks that year.
4. Are 1966 quarters still in circulation?
Yes, you might find them in circulation, but they are often in worn condition.
5. What’s the highest price paid for a 1966 quarter?
The finest MS-67 examples have sold for up to $285 in auctions.
