The 1966 Washington Quarter is an important coin in American numismatics, offering collectors and investors unique opportunities. With its interesting history, various values, and potential errors, this quarter stands out among other coins. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the 1966 Washington Quarter, including its values, rare varieties, and the impact of the 1964 coin crisis on its production. Whether you’re a new collector or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding this quarter can deepen your appreciation for coin collecting.
The Background of the 1966 Washington Quarter
In 1966, the US Mint was working hard to produce enough coins to meet the needs of the nation. Until 1965, coins were made from 90% silver, but due to rising silver prices, the Mint changed the composition. This led to a coin shortage as many people began hoarding silver coins, which included the popular quarters.
Production Numbers
The 1966 Washington Quarter was minted at the main US Mint in Philadelphia, and a staggering 821 million quarters were produced that year. While this seems like a lot, it’s still less than the 1.8 billion quarters minted in 1965. Today, you can still find 1966 quarters in circulation, and some might even be in “almost uncirculated” condition!
Mintage Details
| Year | Mintage Number |
|---|---|
| 1966 | 821,101,500 |
1966 Washington Quarter Prices
The value of a 1966 Washington Quarter varies based on its condition. The highest grades from coin grading services can significantly increase a coin’s price. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values 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 |
Most Valuable 1966 Washington Quarters
Some of the finest examples of the 1966 Washington Quarter have fetched high prices at auction. The most expensive known example sold for an impressive $21,000 in 2023. Below are the top records:
| Auction Record | Price | Date |
|---|---|---|
| MS-68+ | $21,000 | 2023 – Heritage |
| Finest Known (PCGS) | MS-68 | 1 Coin |
| Finest Known (NGC) | MS-68 | 23 Coins |
1966 Washington Quarter Varieties
Some coins are known for their unique features or mistakes during production, leading to what we call “varieties.” The only well-known variety of the 1966 Washington Quarter is the Doubled Die Reverse (DDR). This type of variety occurs when the coin die is misaligned before striking.
Recognizing Varieties
- Doubled Die Reverse (DDR): This variety is rare, and the auction record for a worn example sold for $920 in 2012.
How the 1964 Coin Crisis Impacted 1966 Quarters
The early 1960s saw a surge in silver prices, leading to a crisis where collectors and the general public began hoarding silver coins, including the Washington Quarter. This hoarding created a shortage of coins in circulation, making it hard for the US Mint to keep up with demand.
Mint Mark Removal
In an effort to reduce demand, the US Mint decided to remove mint marks from coins from 1965 to 1967. Only the Lincoln Cents from the Denver Mint carried a mint mark in 1964. Mint marks returned in 1968 after the coin shortage was resolved.
Understanding Error Coins
Error coins occur due to mistakes during the minting process. Unlike varieties, which happen due to die issues, errors are often one-of-a-kind. Here are some common types of error coins:
- Cuds: Parts of the die break off, creating a gap that the metal fills during minting.
- Wrong Planchet Errors: When the wrong coin blank is fed into the press, it can create unique coins, such as a penny struck on a dime planchet.
- Off-Center Strikes: These coins are not fully fed into the press, resulting in a design that is partially missing.
- Double Strikes: Occur when a coin is struck more than once, leading to overlapping images.
Conclusion
The 1966 Washington Quarter is a fascinating piece of American history that offers insight into the challenges faced by the US Mint during a time of economic uncertainty. With its various grades, unique varieties, and potential errors, this quarter remains a popular choice among collectors. Whether you’re looking to invest or simply enjoy the hobby, the 1966 Washington Quarter holds significant value and interest. As you explore this quarter further, you’ll discover the many stories and histories behind each coin, enriching your understanding of the art of coin collecting.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1966 Washington Quarter special?
The 1966 Washington Quarter is notable for its historical context, high mintage, and unique varieties and errors.
How can I determine the value of my 1966 Quarter?
The value is based on its condition and can be assessed using grading scales from certified services like PCGS or NGC.
Are there any rare varieties of the 1966 Washington Quarter?
Yes, the Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) is the only recognized variety and is considered rare.
How do error coins differ from variety coins?
Error coins are unique mistakes during minting, while variety coins arise from die misalignments or changes.
What should I do if I think I have a valuable quarter?
Consult with a reputable coin dealer or send your coin to a certified grading service for evaluation.