The 1967 Washington Quarter, though common in circulation, holds significant interest for collectors due to certain rare varieties and minting errors that can substantially increase its value. Understanding these nuances can help enthusiasts identify valuable pieces in their collections.
Historical Context of the 1967 Quarter
In response to a coin shortage and the rising cost of silver in the mid-1960s, the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to a copper-nickel clad composition for quarters starting in 1965. To discourage hoarding, the Mint also omitted mint marks from coins produced between 1965 and 1967. Consequently, all 1967 quarters lack a mint mark, regardless of their minting location.
Design and Composition
- Obverse (Front): Features a left-facing portrait of President George Washington, with the word “LIBERTY” inscribed above and the year “1967” below.
- Reverse (Back): Depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings clutching a bundle of arrows, symbolizing strength and readiness. The phrase “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arches above, and “QUARTER DOLLAR” is inscribed below.
- Composition: Constructed with a pure copper core and an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel, resulting in a total composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel.
Valuation of the 1967 Quarter
The value of a 1967 quarter largely depends on its condition, rarity, and the presence of any minting errors.
- Circulated Condition: Quarters that have been in general circulation typically hold a value of $0.25 to $1, depending on wear and tear.
- Uncirculated Condition: Coins that have not entered circulation and exhibit no wear can be worth between $1 and $3. Notably, a 1967 quarter graded MS68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) sold for $8,812.50 in 2017, highlighting the premium for coins in exceptional condition.
Special Mint Set (SMS) Quarters
In lieu of traditional proof sets, the U.S. Mint issued Special Mint Sets from 1965 to 1967. The 1967 SMS quarters are characterized by a higher quality finish and more pronounced details compared to regular circulation coins.
- Mintage: Approximately 1,800,000 Special Mint Sets were produced in 1967.
- Value: Individual 1967 SMS quarters in typical condition can be purchased for $2 to $5. However, coins with exceptional features, such as deep cameo contrasts, can command higher prices. For instance, a 1967 SMS quarter graded SP69CAM by PCGS sold for $4,700 in 2016.
Notable Errors and Varieties
Minting errors can significantly enhance a coin’s value due to its rarity and uniqueness.
- Off-Center Strikes: Occur when the coin is not properly aligned during striking, resulting in a portion of the design being missing. The degree of the off-center strike influences its value, with more pronounced errors being more valuable.
- Clipped Planchets: Happen when a portion of the coin’s edge is missing due to an error in the punching process. A 1967 quarter with a curved clip error can be valued up to $400.
- Double Die Obverse (DDO) and Double Die Reverse (DDR): These errors involve doubling of the design elements on the obverse or reverse sides of the coin. Coins exhibiting these errors can be worth more than $40 in average conditions.
1967 Quarter Value Chart
| Condition/Variety | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.25 – $1 |
| Uncirculated (MS60 – MS65) | $1 – $40 |
| Uncirculated (MS66 – MS67) | $28 – $850 |
| Uncirculated (MS68) | Up to $8,812.50 |
| SMS (Typical) | $2 – $5 |
| SMS (SP69CAM) | Up to $4,700 |
| Off-Center Strike Error | Varies; up to $100+ |
| Clipped Planchet Error | Up to $400 |
| DDO/DDR Error | More than $40 |
While the 1967 Washington quarter is common in everyday transactions, certain specimens with high grades, special finishes, or minting errors can be quite valuable to collectors. Careful examination of these coins can reveal hidden treasures worth significantly more than their face value.
FAQs
Are all 1967 quarters without mint marks?
Yes, due to the U.S. Mint’s policy from 1965 to 1967 to omit mint marks in an effort to discourage coin hoarding, all 1967 quarters lack mint marks.
What is a Special Mint Set (SMS) quarter?
The Special Mint Set refers to a set of coins produced by the U.S. Mint from 1965 to 1967, featuring higher quality strikes and finishes compared to regular circulation coins.
How can I identify a minting error on a 1967 quarter?
Common minting errors include off-center strikes, clipped planchets, and doubled die features. Careful inspection of the coin’s design elements and edges can help identify these anomalies.
