If you love looking through your pocket change, you might be searching for 1960s quarters that are worth more than just 25 cents. Many of these Washington quarters have a higher value, so let’s explore which ones to look for and how much they are worth!
A Brief History of the Washington Quarter
The first Washington quarter was created in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday. It was supposed to be a one-time coin, but people loved it, and it became a regular series. The design was made by artist John Flanagan, who featured a portrait of Washington, replacing an earlier design of the Standing Liberty quarter.
In 1999, a new program called the 50 State Quarters was introduced. This changed the design slightly, but the classic Washington quarter remains popular today, especially the high-quality ones.
What Makes 1960s Quarters Valuable?
From 1960 to 1964, the United States made quarters that were 90% silver. This means they are worth more than just their face value. If you find any quarters from these years, they usually sell for around $4 to $5 or more, depending on the current silver price.
Note: Quarters with a “D” mint mark (Denver Mint) are also valuable. So, keep an eye out for 1960-D, 1961-D, 1962-D, 1963-D, and 1964-D quarters!
Rare 1965 Silver Quarters
Did you know that some 1965 quarters were accidentally made with 90% silver? During the change from silver to a new metal, a few silver quarters slipped through the Mint. These rare coins can sell for $6,000 to $10,000 at auctions, depending on their condition!
To tell if a 1965 quarter is silver, weigh it. A silver quarter should weigh about 6.25 grams, while the regular copper-nickel version weighs around 5.67 grams.
Other Valuable 1960s Quarter Errors
In addition to the silver quarters, there are other special 1960s quarters you should look for. Some errors and varieties are worth much more than standard quarters:
- Off-center Quarters: Worth $15 to $20 or more.
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): These can be very valuable and are worth saving.
- Quarters with Die Breaks: The value varies based on how noticeable the break is.
- Strikethrough Errors: These can be worth $20 or more.
What Should You Do with Valuable 1960s Quarters?
If you find a 1960s quarter that seems special, you have a choice. Some collectors want to keep these coins for their collections, while others might want to sell them. Selling can be a good option if you want to make some money.
The best way to sell your valuable coins is to find a reputable coin dealer. Here are some tips for choosing a good dealer:
- Experience: Look for a dealer with a lot of experience in buying and selling coins.
- Reviews: Check for good customer reviews online.
- Professional Connections: Choose a dealer associated with reputable organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the American Numismatic Association.
Avoid selling your coins to pawn shops or jewelers, as they usually won’t give you the best prices for coins.
Table of Valuable 1960s Quarters
| Quarter Type | Year(s) | Key Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Washington | 1960-1964 | 90% silver, mint mark “D” (Denver) | $4-$5 or more (depends on silver prices) |
| Rare Silver Quarter | 1965 | Transition error with silver | $6,000-$10,000 (depends on condition) |
| Off-center Quarter | 1960-1967 | Misaligned design | $15-$20 or more |
| Doubled Die Obverse | 1960-1967 | Doubled features | Variable, often very valuable |
| Strikethrough Errors | 1960-1967 | Missing letters or design elements | $20 and up |
Conclusion
Searching for 1960s quarters can be an exciting adventure! Many of these coins, especially those made of silver, can be worth much more than their face value. Whether you decide to keep these treasures for your collection or sell them, knowing which coins to look for is key. Always consider finding a trustworthy coin dealer if you decide to sell your valuable finds. Happy collecting!
FAQ’s
Why are 1960s quarters worth more than 25 cents?
Many 1960s quarters are made of 90% silver, which gives them a higher value. The silver content means they can be worth around $4 to $5 or more.
How can I tell if I have a rare 1965 silver quarter?
You can weigh the quarter. A silver 1965 quarter weighs about 6.25 grams, while a regular copper-nickel quarter weighs around 5.67 grams.
What should I do if I find a valuable quarter?
You can keep it for your collection or sell it. If you choose to sell, find a reliable coin dealer with experience to get a fair price.