If you are seeking information on the value of the 1967 Quarter Coins Washington quarter, then you are at the right place. They are not a rare coin but rather a historical piece reflecting George Washington, the first president of the United States.
These quarters were produced by the U.S. Mint in 1967 to avoid a nationwide coin shortage. In this article, we are discussing the features of the 1967 quarter, its history, and some flawed coins that can be worth hundreds of dollars.
History of the 1967 Quarter
The Coin Shortage
The increasing silver price during the early years of the 1960s made individuals start storing coins, like the Washington quarter and the Kennedy half dollar. Eventually, the situation was so aggravated that the U.S. Treasury began depleting its silver reserves.
To deal with this problem, President Lyndon B. Johnson ordered the silver removed from the coins. New quarters were made with a copper center and outer layer of copper-nickel. Additionally, between 1965-1967, mint marks were removed from the coins so that people would not hoard them and they could continue to be used.
Lack of Mint Mark
The absence of a mint mark on the 1967 quarters makes them unique. This, however makes it challenging to identify if the coins were produced in Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco.
Features of the 1967 Washington Quarter
Obverse Design
It shows the image of George Washington facing the left. His hair is tied with a ribbon. The inscription reads “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” while “1967” is engraved at the bottom.
Back Design
On the back is an eagle with spread wings, clutching a spear and an olive branch together, a symbol of peace, surrounded with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, and “QUARTER DOLLAR” is written below.
Physical Characteristics
- Composition: Copper core and outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel
- Weight: 5.67 g
- Diameter: 24.30 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Grading of 1967 Quarters
The quality of coins is judged by their condition. The fine details seen in George Washington’s hair are important in this grading. Some of the main grades are:
- Cameo (CAM): Strong contrast between the coin’s raised design and surface. This can be worth up to $2,000.
- Deep Cameo (DCAM): Deeper contrast and mirror-like surfaces. This can sell for $3,000 or more.
- Mint State: These are coins in excellent condition.
Errors of 1967 Quarters
Defective coins are valuable to collectors because of their unique characteristics. Some of the main errors found on 1967 quarters are:
1. Double die error
This occurs when the coin’s design is struck twice, causing letters and numbers to appear double-imaged. It can be found on “LIBERTY,” “1967,” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This error is rare and coveted by collectors.
2. Off-center strikes
When the coin is not aligned correctly, the design becomes unbalanced. If the date is clear and the design is more off-center, its value may increase.
3. Clipped planchets
This error involves a crescent-shaped cut on the edge of the coin. This error is quite popular among collectors.
4. Die cracks and cuds
Die cracks appear as raised lines on the coin, created by the breakage of the die during minting. Cuds are areas of extra metal created by damage to the die. Both of these errors make the coin unique and valuable.
Tips for Collectors
If you want to add 1967 quarters to your collection, keep these tips in mind:
- Inspect the coins: Use a microscope or magnifying glass to identify errors.
- Get it authenticated: Have the coins certified through professional grading to increase their authenticity and market value.
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on coin auctions and current market trends.
- Keep them safe: Use special holders or albums to keep the coins safe.
Conclusion
The 1967 quarters have an incredible chapter in the history of American coins. Their minting errors, a lack of mint marks, and the historical background make the coins a treasure trove for collectors. So if you are interested in them and do adequate research, you may be sitting on something that is a hidden treasure worth hundreds of dollars in your collection.
FAQs
Q 1. Are 1967 Washington quarters made of silver?
No, the 1967 quarters have a copper core, with a layer of copper-nickel around it, because silver was no longer used in quarters after 1965.
Q 2. Why are no mint marks available on 1967 quarters?
Mint marks were eliminated for 1965–1967 quarters to dissuade coin hoarding from the coin shortage of the 1960s.
Q 3. What makes 1967 quarters so valuable?
Most are worth face value, but error coins, such as double die strikes or off-center errors, can be worth hundreds of dollars.
Q 4. How do I know if my 1967 quarter is an error?
Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling on letters, off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or die cracks.
Q 5. What is the finest grade for a 1967 quarter?
The highest grade is a Mint State (MS-70) that’s perfect, meaning no flaws exist. Deep Cameo (DCAM) proof-like coins also carry high values.