1966 Washington Quarter: How Rare Errors and High Grades Increase Value

The 1966 Washington Quarter is a fascinating coin in American history, capturing the interest of collectors and investors. While it was minted in high numbers, some specific

examples of the coin, particularly those in high grades or with notable errors, are valuable and sought after. This article will help you understand the coin’s history, value, and what makes certain pieces rare.

What is the 1966 Washington Quarter?

The 1966 Washington Quarter was minted during a period of change in U.S. coinage. By 1966, all quarters were being produced using a copper-nickel clad composition instead of the 90% silver content found in earlier coins.

This change was due to rising silver prices and the coin shortage of the mid-1960s. The 1966 quarter was produced exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, with over 821 million coins minted.

Mintage and Circulation Details

A total of 821,101,500 quarters were produced in 1966. Although this number may seem large, it is significantly lower than the 1.8 billion quarters minted in 1965.

Many of these coins are still found in circulation today, often in “almost uncirculated” condition, meaning they have been lightly used but are still in good shape.

Value of the 1966 Washington Quarter

The value of a 1966 Washington Quarter mainly depends on its condition. Coins are graded from MS-60 to MS-70, with higher grades meaning better preservation and greater value.

While lower grades like MS-60 to MS-62 might be worth face value, higher grades like MS-67 can command prices of up to $285. Here’s a breakdown of the value of the coin based on its grade:

Grade	Price
MS-60	$0.25
MS-61	$0.25
MS-62	$0.25
MS-63	$8
MS-64	$10
MS-65	$16
MS-66	$30
MS-67	$285

Notable Errors and Rarities

While most 1966 quarters are standard in design, some notable errors can increase their value:

1. Die Cracks: Imperfections in the coin’s design caused by damage to the minting dies. These are often valued by collectors for their uniqueness.
2. Off-Center Strikes: These errors occur when the coin is not aligned properly in the press, leading to a skewed design.
3. Double Dies: A rare error where the coin’s design is struck more than once, resulting in a doubled image.
4. High-Grade Examples: Coins in high grades, particularly MS-67, are rare and can fetch high prices at auctions.

Auction Records and Rarity

The finest-known examples of the 1966 Washington Quarter are highly sought after. MS-67 graded coins have been sold for as much as $285.

Despite the high mintage, finding a 1966 quarter in such pristine condition is rare, and collectors are willing to pay a premium for them.

The 1966 Washington Quarter holds a special place in American numismatic history. Despite its high mintage, coins with notable errors or in high grades can be quite valuable.

Collectors who understand the value of these coins and know what to look for can make the most of their collections, whether they’re seasoned numismatists or beginners.

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