The 1966 Washington Quarter is a significant piece of American numismatic history. Despite its large production number, certain aspects make some of these coins particularly valuable to collectors and investors.
In this article, we will delve into the details of the 1966 Washington Quarter, including its value, notable errors, and rare finds, and offer insights into its market trends.
Overview of the 1966 Washington Quarter
In 1966, the U.S. Mint was working at full capacity to address the high demand for coins. The previous year, 1965, had seen a surge in coin production due to a coin shortage, largely caused by people hoarding silver coins.
By 1966, quarters were no longer made from 90% silver but from a copper-nickel clad composition. This change marked a significant shift in U.S. coinage. The 1966 Washington Quarter, minted only at the Philadelphia Mint, represents an important transition period in coin history.
Mintage and Circulation
In 1966, a total of 821,101,500 Washington Quarters were minted. While this number is quite large, it is still significantly lower than the 1.8 billion quarters minted in 1965. Despite the high mintage, some 1966 quarters are still in circulation today and are sometimes found in “almost uncirculated” condition.
Value Analysis of the 1966 Washington Quarter
The value of a 1966 Washington Quarter varies based on its condition and grade. Coins are graded from MS-60 to MS-70, with higher grades indicating better preservation. Here’s a breakdown of the prices for different grades:
| 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 |
Mint State Ratings Explained:
- MS-60 to MS-62: Coins in these grades show noticeable imperfections and wear. They are generally worth face value.
- MS-63: Coins have fewer marks and scratches but may still have visible imperfections.
- MS-64: Higher grade with minimal imperfections visible to the naked eye.
- MS-65: Well-struck coins with sharp details and few visible flaws.
- MS-66: High-quality coins with exceptional detail and minimal to no visible flaws.
- MS-67: Extremely rare with pristine quality and virtually no visible imperfections.
Notable Errors and Rarities
Though the 1966 Washington Quarter has a standard design, several errors and rare features can enhance its value:
- Die Cracks: Some 1966 quarters show die cracks, imperfections caused by issues with the minting dies. These can make a coin more valuable to collectors.
- Off-Center Strikes: When a coin is not aligned properly in the press, it can result in off-center strikes, making the coin more desirable.
- Double Dies: Double die errors, where the design is struck more than once, are rare and sought after for their unique appearance.
- High-Grade Examples: High-grade examples, especially those graded MS-67, are rare and can command significantly higher prices.
Auction Records and Finest Known Examples
The most prized 1966 Washington Quarters are those in the highest grades. Auction records show that the finest-known MS-67 examples have sold for up to $285, reflecting their exceptional quality and rarity.
The 1966 Washington Quarter, though produced in high numbers, holds significant interest for collectors due to certain rare features and high-grade examples.
Whether you’re a collector or an investor, understanding the factors that contribute to the value of this coin can enhance your appreciation of its place in American numismatic history.
