The 1966 Washington quarter is an iconic piece of U.S. coinage and part of the series that began in 1932, celebrating the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. While quarters minted before 1965 contained 90% silver, the 1966 quarter is made of a copper-nickel clad composition, meaning it has no silver content. Nevertheless, collectors are still interested in these coins, especially in excellent condition or rare varieties. This article will help you understand the current value of a 1966 quarter in 2024.
Contents
- 1 How to Sell or Buy a 1966 Quarter
- 1.1 Conclusion
- 1.2 FAQs
- 1.3 What is the value of a 1966 quarter in average circulated condition?
- 1.4 Why doesn’t the 1966 quarter have any silver content?
- 1.5 How much is an uncirculated 1966 quarter worth?
- 1.6 Are there any rare or error varieties of the 1966 quarter?
- 1.7 How can I sell a valuable 1966 quarter?
- 2 Author
1. Face Value vs. Collectible Value
The face value of a 1966 quarter is, of course, $0.25. However, many factors can influence its worth to collectors, including condition, rarity, and whether it’s a special variety or error coin.
- Circulated Condition: In average circulated condition, a 1966 quarter is generally only worth its face value, $0.25. This is due to its lack of silver content and the large number of quarters produced during that year (821,101,500 quarters were minted).
- Uncirculated Condition: In higher grades, such as Mint State (MS), these coins can command premiums. An uncirculated 1966 quarter in MS60 could be worth around $2, while in MS65, it may fetch up to $20.
| Condition | Estimated Value (2024) |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| MS60 (Uncirculated) | $2.00 |
| MS65 (Uncirculated) | $15 – $20 |
2. Grading and Condition
A coin’s condition is graded using the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from Poor (P1) to Mint State 70 (MS70). The better the condition of the coin, the more valuable it tends to be.
- Good (G4): A 1966 quarter in this condition would likely be very worn, with only the major details visible.
- Very Fine (VF20): Moderate wear with details still present, but no sharpness.
- Extremely Fine (XF40): Light wear with all details visible and some remaining luster.
- Mint State (MS60-MS70): No wear at all, potentially straight from the mint, with full details intact.
| Grade | Condition | Estimated Value (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| G4 | Good | $0.25 |
| VF20 | Very Fine | $0.50 |
| XF40 | Extremely Fine | $1.00 |
| MS60 | Uncirculated | $2.00 |
| MS65 | Uncirculated Gem | $15 – $20 |
3. Error Coins
Error coins can be particularly valuable because they are rare. These might include off-center strikes, doubled dies, or coins struck on the wrong planchet. Some notable error varieties from 1966 can be worth significantly more than the regular issue coins.
| Type of Error | Potential Value |
|---|---|
| Off-Center Strikes | $50 – $150 |
| Doubled Die | $100 – $500 |
| Wrong Planchet Strike | $500 – $1,000 |
How to Sell or Buy a 1966 Quarter
If you are looking to sell or buy a 1966 quarter, it’s important to get it professionally graded and authenticated, especially if you believe it is in high grade or has an error. Coins graded by reputable companies like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) tend to fetch higher prices.
Platforms to Buy or Sell:
- Local Coin Shops: Great for in-person appraisals and immediate sales.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and PCGS Auctions offer a broader market but may involve fees.
- Coin Shows: Ideal for buying, selling, and networking with coin enthusiasts.
| Platform | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Local Coin Shops | Immediate sale | May not offer top dollar |
| Online Marketplaces | Broader audience | Seller fees, shipping costs |
| Coin Shows | Expert knowledge | May require travel |
Conclusion
A 1966 quarter generally holds minimal intrinsic value due to its copper-nickel composition, but collectors can still find value in high-grade, error, or uncirculated coins. In 2024, a typical circulated 1966 quarter is worth face value, while an uncirculated example might sell for up to $20. Error coins can be worth significantly more, depending on the rarity and type of error.
Always have your coins professionally graded if you believe they are rare or in excellent condition to ensure you get the best price when selling or buying.
FAQs
What is the value of a 1966 quarter in average circulated condition?
In average circulated condition, a 1966 quarter is generally worth only its face value, which is $0.25. This is because 1966 quarters contain no silver, and millions were minted, making them common in circulation.
Why doesn’t the 1966 quarter have any silver content?
The U.S. Mint stopped using 90% silver in quarters starting in 1965 due to rising silver prices. Quarters minted from 1965 onward, including the 1966 quarter, are made from a copper-nickel clad composition.
How much is an uncirculated 1966 quarter worth?
An uncirculated 1966 quarter in Mint State (MS60) condition can be worth around $2. In higher grades, such as MS65 (uncirculated gem), the value can range from $15 to $20.
Are there any rare or error varieties of the 1966 quarter?
Yes, some 1966 quarters have rare errors, such as off-center strikes, doubled dies, or coins struck on the wrong planchet. These error coins can be worth anywhere from $50 to over $1,000, depending on the type of error and its condition.
How can I sell a valuable 1966 quarter?
To sell a valuable 1966 quarter, it’s best to get the coin professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC. You can sell through local coin shops, online platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions, or attend coin shows to reach a wider audience of collectors.
Author
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