Introduction
In the world of coin collecting, the 1967 Washington quarter is often overlooked as a common date with little numismatic value. While it‘s true that most circulated examples are worth only their face value of 25 cents, there are several rare varieties and high grade specimens that are highly prized by collectors.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive deep into the 1967 quarter and reveal which ones are worth seeking out. We‘ll cover the coin‘s historical context, key diagnostics, rare errors and varieties, and updated pricing data. Whether you‘re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this article will provide valuable insights and help you appreciate the 1967 quarter in a whole new light.
Historical Context
To fully understand the 1967 quarter, it‘s important to examine the events and Mint policies that shaped its production. The mid-1960s were a tumultuous time for U.S. coinage, with silver prices rising sharply and a growing coin shortage. In response, Congress passed the Coinage Act of 1965, which authorized a switch from 90% silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars to copper-nickel clad coins for circulation.
The new clad quarters debuted in 1965 and were struck at all three mints: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). To discourage hoarding and speculation in the early years of the transition, the Mint also decided to omit mintmarks on coins struck from 1965 through 1967. This created a unique three-year "type" of Washington quarter, struck only in Philadelphia but without its traditional "P" mintmark.
1967 marked the final year of the "no mintmark" quarters, with mintmarks resuming on the obverse in 1968. It was also a high mintage year, with over 1.5 billion quarters struck for circulation. While this abundance makes the 1967 a common date overall, there are still several exciting varieties for collectors to pursue.
Key Diagnostics
Before we explore the rare varieties, it‘s helpful to know the basic diagnostics of a typical 1967 Washington quarter:
- Composition: Outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Edge: Reeded
- Mint mark: None (all 1967 quarters struck at the Philadelphia Mint)
The obverse features a portrait of George Washington facing left, with the word "LIBERTY" above, the date "1967" below, and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left. The reverse shows an eagle with wings spread, perched on a bundle of arrows and olive branch. Inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" to the left, and "QUARTER DOLLAR" below.
Collectors should also be aware of the Special Mint Set (SMS) coins produced in 1967. These were struck with higher quality dies and have a satin-like finish, similar to proofs. While not as rare as the 1964 SMS coins, the 1967 SMS quarter is still highly collectible and commands a premium over regular circulation strikes.
Rare Errors and Varieties
While most 1967 quarters are common, there are several rare errors and varieties that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors. Here are some of the most notable:
1967 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Quarter
Doubled die errors occur when a die receives multiple impressions of the design at slightly offset angles. In the case of the 1967 DDO quarter, the doubling is most visible on the obverse lettering and date. The most prominent variety is the FS-101 (011), also known as the 1-O-II.
Attributed to machine doubling, this variety shows distinct separation on the letters of "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST". The date and Washington‘s hair also exhibit doubling. A well-preserved example graded MS-64 by PCGS sold for $2,485 in a 2019 Heritage Auction.
1967 Off-Center Quarter
Off-center errors happen when a planchet is misaligned with the dies during striking. This results in an incomplete design that‘s shifted significantly toward the edge. The most valuable off-center errors have a nearly full date and no planchet defects.
A dramatic 1967 quarter struck 50% off-center brought $3,840 in a 2015 Heritage sale. Even a 10-15% off-center error can sell for $100 to $200 in high grades.
1967 Quarter on Wrong Planchet
Wrong planchet errors are created when a coin is struck on a planchet intended for a different denomination. For the 1967 quarter, this most commonly involves dime, nickel, or cent planchets. Look for an undersized coin with the quarter design but a different edge and weight.
One of the most remarkable wrong planchet errors is a 1967 quarter struck on a copper cent planchet. Certified MS-65 Red and Brown by PCGS, it sold for $12,000 in a 2006 Heritage auction. A 1967 quarter on a clad dime planchet graded MS-67 by PCGS brought $4,700 in 2016.
1967 Clipped Planchet Quarter
Clipped planchets are a type of striking error where a straight, curved, or ragged portion of the coin is missing. This occurs when the punches that cut planchets from the metal strips malfunction, creating an incomplete blank. The coin‘s design is still fully struck, but a section along the edge is absent.
The value of a clipped planchet varies by the size and position of the clip. A 1967 quarter with a large curved clip, graded MS-64 by PCGS, hammered for $1,410 in a 2012 Heritage sale. Smaller clips often sell for $50 to $100.
1967 Capped Die or "Stickered" Quarter
Die caps form when a coin gets stuck to a die, causing subsequent coins to be struck through the adhered coin. This results in a shallow, distorted strike with a brassy or woodgrain appearance. Capped die strikes are also known as "stickered" coins, as they resemble a sticker on the surface.
While not as valuable as some other errors, capped die 1967 quarters are still popular with collectors. An example graded MS-66 by PCGS, with about 50% of the coin covered by the sticker effect, realized $108 in a 2009 Heritage auction.
Condition and Strike Quality
Even without errors or varieties, a 1967 quarter can be collectible if it‘s in exceptional condition. Grading services like PCGS and NGC evaluate coins on the Sheldon 1-70 scale, with higher numbers indicating better preservation. A coin‘s grade takes into account wear, luster, marks, and overall eye appeal.
For circulation strike 1967 quarters, anything graded MS-66 or higher is considered condition-rare. The highest graded examples are a single MS-68 at PCGS and three MS-68s at NGC. An MS-67+ specimen sold for $5,170 in a 2015 Heritage event.
Strike quality is also important for mint state coins. The Special Mint Set (SMS) quarters tend to have strong, fully defined strikes with satiny luster. PCGS has graded a few 1967 SMS quarters in SP-69, with one selling for $4,700 in 2009.
Proof quarters have mirrorlike fields and sharp, frosted devices. The 1967 proof set had a mintage of 1,863,344, making the quarter relatively common in PR-65 and lower. However, superb gems graded PR-69 by PCGS or NGC can still fetch over $100.
Price Guide and Auction Records
Here‘s an updated look at 1967 Washington quarter values, based on recent auction results and dealer price guides:
| Grade/Variety | PCGS Price Guide | NGC Price Guide | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $10 to $20 | N/A | $35 (MS-63) |
| MS-64 | $20 | $22 | $38 |
| MS-65 | $25 | $26 | $94 |
| MS-66 | $50 | $45 | $130 |
| MS-67 | $250 | $130 | $675 |
| MS-67+ | $2,500 | N/A | $5,170 |
| MS-68 | $7,500 | $10,000 | N/A |
| SMS SP-67 | $600 | $400 | $690 |
| SMS SP-68 | $4,000 | $1,600 | $4,465 |
| DDO FS-101 | $250 (MS-64) | N/A | $2,485 (MS-64) |
| 50% Off-Center | N/A | N/A | $3,840 |
| Cent Planchet | N/A | N/A | $12,000 (MS-65 RB) |
| Curved Clip | N/A | N/A | $1,410 (MS-64) |
Note that these prices are for PCGS and NGC certified coins. Raw or "details" graded coins will sell for less, while premium quality pieces may bring more. Rare errors, especially those in high grade, have significant variability in price due to their unique nature.
Collecting Tips
For collectors interested in assembling a high grade set of 1967 quarters, here are some tips:
- Cherrypicking circulation finds for rare varieties is a longshot, as billions were minted. Your best bet is searching dealer inventories, online auctions, and coin shows.
- Focus on luster, eye appeal, and strike when selecting mint state coins. Look for a cartwheel effect and minimal marks.
- Consider buying certified coins in PCGS or NGC holders. Auction prices tend to be stronger for graded pieces.
- Store coins in inert plastic flips or non-PVC holders to prevent toning and damage. Keep them away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
- Study variety diagnostics and error types to train your eye. Photos and descriptions in price guides can be helpful.
- The 1967 quarter is included in both the regular Washington quarter series and the Special Mint Set. Decide which format you prefer for your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any silver quarters from 1967?
A: No, quarters dated 1967 have a copper-nickel clad composition and contain no silver. The last 90% silver quarters for circulation were minted in 1964.
Q: Why is my 1967 quarter missing a mintmark?
A: From 1965-1967, the U.S. Mint temporarily suspended using mintmarks on coins to discourage collecting during the transition to clad coinage. All quarters in these years were struck in Philadelphia but have no "P" mint mark.
Q: Is the 1967 quarter with no mintmark rare?
A: While the lack of a mintmark is a notable feature, it alone does not make the coin valuable. 1967 quarters are very common in circulated grades. However, some high grade examples and error varieties are quite rare.
Q: What is the most valuable 1967 quarter?
A: The only 1967 quarter graded MS-68 by PCGS, considered the finest known, has an estimated value of $7,500 to $10,000. In terms of errors, the 1967 quarter struck on a cent planchet and graded MS-65 Red and Brown sold for $12,000 in 2006.
Q: How do I get my 1967 quarter appraised?
A: For a professional opinion on your coin‘s grade and value, submit it to a reputable third party grading service like PCGS, NGC, ANACS, or ICG. They will examine the coin, assign a grade, and encapsulate it in a protective holder. You can also show your quarter to dealers at a coin show or shop for a free informal appraisal.
Conclusion
At first glance, the 1967 Washington quarter may seem like just another common coin. But a closer look reveals a range of rare errors, interesting varieties, and condition rarities that make it a fascinating piece for collectors. By understanding the coin‘s history, key diagnostics, and value factors, you can appreciate the 1967 quarter as an important part of numismatic history.
Whether you‘re drawn to the satiny luster of a Special Mint Set specimen, the striking errors that occurred during a year of transition, or the sheer challenge of finding a superb gem example, the 1967 quarter offers something for every kind of collector. As with all coins, the most desirable pieces combine rarity, quality, and visual appeal.
Assembling a high grade set of 1967 quarters can be a rewarding pursuit, but it requires patience, knowledge, and a keen eye for detail. By staying informed on market trends, auction results, and grading standards, you can make wise purchasing decisions and build a collection that will be the envy of other numismatists.
So the next time you come across a 1967 quarter in your pocket change, take a moment to examine it closely. You never know when you might discover a rare variety or error that could be worth a small fortune. And even if it‘s just a common circulated piece, remember that it still has a story to tell about a pivotal time in the history of U.S. coinage. Happy collecting!
