The 1966 Washington quarter is the coin of the long-running Washington quarter series, which spans from 1932 to 1998. It struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1966 quarter was made without a mint mark and mainly intended for circulation. This coin is made with 75% copper and 25% nickel, a coin of the cupro nickel-clad coinage presented in 1965 in a comeback to increasing silver costs. These coins mintage of over 821 million coins, it is a common but historically important quarter that collectors still appreciate today.
History of 1966 Washington Modern Quarter
The Washington Quarter first came in 1932 to honor the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Initially, the design competition was succeeded by Laura Gardin Fraser, but the Treasury Secretary, Andrew Mellon, ultimately selected John Flanagan’s design instead. Flanagan’s simple yet graceful depiction of Washington and the eagle on the reverse evolved as iconic in American coinage.
It was originally struck in 90% silver, and Washington quarters had this composition until 1964. However, as silver prices rose smartly in the 1960s, people started collecting silver coins, leading to a lack. President Lyndon B. Johnson managed this issue by extracting silver from circulating quarters and dimes, and it was beginning in 1965. The 1966 quarter was part of this change to a cupronickel-clad design, marking the end of the silver era for Washington quarters.
From 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint did not have mint marks on quarters, which delayed the release of the 1966 coins until August of that year. Alongside the regular strikes, the U.S. Mint also had Special Mint Sets (SMS) for collectors, as no proof sets were issued during this transitional period. Among collectors, some of these quarters are considered part of the Most Valuable Modern Quarters, particularly rare error coins or SMS strikes.
Specifications
- Mint: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Designer: John Flanagan (obverse and reverse)
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel (cupronickel clad)
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Design
Obverse
The obverse side of the 1966 Washington Quarter features a left-facing bust of George Washington. This coin was designed by John Flanagan. George Washington’s image on the coin is surrounded by the word “LIBERTY” at the top and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” to his left. The date “1966” is written centered at the bottom.
Reverse
The reverse side of the coin displays an eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows in its talons, representing strength and enthusiasm. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is written at the top, while “QUARTER DOLLAR” is at the bottom. An olive branch is placed under the eagle, representing peace.
Types of 1966 Washington Quarters
- 1966 No Mint Mark Quarter: Philadelphia made 821,101,500 regular quarters.
- 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) Quarter: Philadelphia also had 2,261,583 SMS quarters for collectors. These coins have a higher quality finish than regular circulated coins but do not fit the edge and detail of proof coins.
Rarity and Condition
Although the 1966 quarter was minted in large numbers, high-grade examples in uncirculated condition, especially those graded MS67 and higher, are regarded as rare. Most quarters from this year indicate significant wear because of extensive circulation. Signs of wear are generally most visible on Washington’s hair and the eagle’s breast feathers.
In circulated grades, the 1966 quarter has minimal value above its face value. However, coins in higher mint states, especially those from SMS sets, can fetch more on the collector’s market. To determine their exact worth, using a Coin Value Checker is highly recommended.
Errors
The 1966 Washington Quarter noticed various errors due to the transitional period in coin composition. Some of the most valuable and sought-after errors include:
- Doubled Die Reverse (DDR): A doubling error caused by a misaligned die, leading to a duplicated design. One such example sold for $920 in XF45 condition in 2012.
- Quarter Struck on a Dime Planchet: This error occurs when a quarter is mistakenly struck on a smaller dime planchet, resulting in missing design elements. These coins can sell for up to $300.
- Quarter Struck on a Nickel Planchet: Striking on a Nickel Planchet leads to a smaller, partially missing design. Such coins typically weigh about 5 grams and can sell for around $100.
- Quarter Struck on a Cent Planchet: In this case, a quarter is struck on a one-cent planchet, leaving parts of the design, like “LIBERTY” or “QUARTER,” missing. These coins can be valued at over $200.
- Magnetic Wire Struck in Obverse: A rare error where a piece of magnetic wire becomes embedded in the coin during minting, creating a unique horseshoe-shaped imprint on the obverse.
Grading
Grading plays a crucial role in determining the value of a 1966 Washington quarter. Here is a breakdown of grading levels:
- Basal State to Very Good (1-10): These coins are heavily worn and hold little to no value beyond face value.
- Fine to Extremely Fine (12-40): Coins with moderate wear, valued slightly above face value.
- About Uncirculated (50): Light wear, still considered circulated.
- Mint State (60-70): Uncirculated coins with little to no wear. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin, with MS68 examples reaching premium prices.
Value of 1966 Washington Modern Quarter
The 1966 Washington Quarter’s value varies significantly depending on its grade and condition:
- Circulated Quarters: Generally worth their face value of $0.25.
- Mint State 60-63: Around $1.
- Mint State 64: Valued at approximately $2.
- Mint State 65: Priced at about $8.40.
- Mint State 66: Between $18 and $21.60.
- Mint State 67: Valued between $180 and $250.
- Mint State 68: The highest-grade 1966 quarters can sell for $6,300 to $7,000, with one particularly rare example fetching $21,000 at auction in 2012.
Also Read – 1965 Washington Modern Quarter: A Guide for Coin Enthusiasts
Conclusion
The 1966 Washington quarter, which represented the switch from silver to cupro nickel composition, is an important year in the history of American coinage. While the majority of coins from this year are common, those with errors or in higher grades may earn high premiums. The 1966 quarter continues to be attractive for numismatists, whether it is collected for its historical value or its connection to the period’s economic changes.