The 1967 Washington Quarter is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, holding value not just for its intrinsic design but for the unique circumstances surrounding its production.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice intrigued by rare finds, the 1967 quarter offers a glimpse into the world of collectible coins.
This guide explores key details, notable errors, and the worth of these quarters, which may still be lurking in your pocket change.
History and Design of the 1967 Quarter
The 1967 quarter is part of the Washington Quarter series, which began in 1932. It was produced during a critical time in U.S. minting history as the country faced a coin shortage.
To discourage hoarding, the U.S. Mint removed mint marks from all coins between 1965 and 1967.
Key Features
- Obverse Design: Features a left-facing portrait of George Washington, with “LIBERTY” inscribed above and “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the left. The date “1967” appears at the bottom.
- Reverse Design: Displays a bold American eagle with outstretched wings, clutching a bundle of arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing readiness and peace. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR” frame the design.
The lack of a mint mark and the context of its production make the 1967 quarter particularly intriguing to collectors.
Errors and Varieties That Increase Value
Some 1967 quarters are worth far more than their face value due to errors and unique characteristics. Here are the most sought-after varieties:
1. Double Die Errors
These occur when the die imprints the design onto the coin twice, creating a doubling effect. On the 1967 quarter, doubling may appear on Washington’s profile, the lettering, or the eagle’s feathers.
- Value: $100–$500, depending on the severity and condition.
2. Off-Center Strikes
Coins struck off-center feature an incomplete design due to misalignment during minting.
- Value: $50–$300, depending on the degree of the error.
3. Clipped Planchet
This error occurs when a piece of the metal blank is missing, resulting in a noticeable “clip” on the coin’s edge.
- Value: $100–$400.
4. Struck on Wrong Planchet
Some 1967 quarters were accidentally struck on planchets meant for other denominations, such as dimes or nickels.
- Value: $500–$2,000.
5. Special Mint Set (SMS) Quarters
In 1967, the U.S. Mint released SMS coins with a matte finish for collectors. These coins often exhibit a higher level of detail and brilliance compared to regular circulation coins.
- Value: $20–$150, depending on condition.
Value of the 1967 Quarter
The value of a 1967 quarter varies significantly based on its condition and any errors. Here’s an overview:
| Type | Condition | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated (Common) | Average wear | $0.25–$0.50 |
| Uncirculated | No wear | $5–$20 |
| SMS Quarter | Matte finish | $20–$150 |
| Double Die Error | Visible doubling | $100–$500 |
| Struck on Wrong Planchet | Misaligned strike | $500–$2,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | 20–50% off-center | $50–$300 |
How to Identify Valuable 1967 Quarters
- Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling or misstrikes.
- Assess Condition: Coins with minimal wear fetch higher prices.
- Weigh the Coin: A 1967 quarter weighs 5.67 grams; deviations may indicate a wrong planchet error.
- Professional Grading: Have your coin graded by a trusted organization like PCGS or NGC for an accurate assessment.
Where to Find 1967 Quarters
- Coin Roll Hunting: Search through rolls of quarters from banks.
- Estate Sales and Auctions: These are great places to find rare coins.
- Specialized Dealers: Numismatic shops often carry error coins and high-grade examples.
The 1967 Washington Quarter is a fascinating collectible with a rich history. While many are worth their face value, rare varieties and error coins can fetch impressive sums.
Whether you’re scouring your pocket change or investing in SMS coins, the 1967 quarter offers something for every collector. Start your search today—you might just uncover a hidden treasure!
FAQs
Are 1967 quarters rare?
Most 1967 quarters are not rare, but specific error coins and SMS versions hold significant value.
How can I tell if my 1967 quarter is an SMS coin?
SMS coins feature a matte finish and sharper details compared to circulated quarters.
What is the highest value for a 1967 quarter?
Error coins, such as those struck on wrong planchets, can reach values as high as $2,000.
