The 1970 Washington quarter is a part of the comprehensive series. It is designed to honor George Washington, the first president of the United States. These quarters, which were made by the U.S. Mint from 1932 and 1998, have Washington’s portrait on the front and a beautiful eagle on the reverse. The 1970 quarter is very common, with a total mintage of 556,394,174 coins; however, its value depends on its mint mark and condition.
History of 1970 Washington Modern Quarter
The 1970 Washington Modern Quarter was made for the celebration of Washington’s 200th birthday. The coin had to be made by the U.S. Mint in time for the celebration on February 22, which marks Washington’s birthdate in 1732. John Flannigan designed and manufactured the reverse side of the coin, and Jean-Antoine Houdon’s 1785 bust was used as the model for the obverse side. This coin is often considered one of the Most Valuable Modern Quarters due to its historical significance and unique design.
Mintage Details
- Location: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco
- Total Minted: 556,394,174
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): 136,420,000
- Denver (D Mint Mark): 417,341,364
- San Francisco (S Mint Mark, Proof): 2,632,810
Specifications
- Diameter: 24.30 mm (0.96 inches)
- Thickness: 1.75 mm (0.07 inches)
- Weight: 5.67 g (0.20 ounces)
- Composition: 91.67% copper, and a low percentage of nickel
- Edge: 119 reeds
Design of 1970 Washington Modern Quarter
Obverse
The obverse side of the coin shows a left-facing bust of George Washington, based on Houdon’s statue. Above his image is the word “LIBERTY,” while “IN GOD WE TRUST” is written just below his chin. The year of minting, “1970,” is inscribed at the bottom side of the coin, and the mint mark (if present) is situated behind the ribbon on the right side of it.
Reverse
The reverse shows an elevated eagle with outstretched wings, having a bundle of arrows. Above the eagle is inscribed “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above the eagle. Below the olive branches, which cross under the arrows, is the denomination “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Rarity and Condition
The 1970 Washington Modern Quarter rarity is mostly determined by its location. Less time has come since the quarters were first issued, which makes them more valuable. The Sheldon grading system is utilized to evaluate coins:
- Mint State (MS): 60 to 70 (highest value)
- Circulated Grades: Ranging from GOOD to ABOUT CIRCULATED
Coins graded POOR, FAIR, or ABOUT GOOD are typically worth only their metal value.
Errors
Error coins can quickly rise in value, it is because collectors regularly seek them out. Some of the main errors from the 1970 quarter are:
- Misprint Quarters: A few were struck from 1941 Canadian quarters; a rare sample was bought for $35,000 on eBay.
- Thin Quarters: Also referred to as “1970 D Quarters on Dime Stock,” these coins became lighter and thinner as a result of having been struck on dime planchets by error. The values are around $35 and $300.
- Double-Strike and Off-Center errors: A rare coin that had both errors was bought for $1,020 recently.
- Other Errors: Quarters that were sold for between $216 and $540 were over-minted over Jefferson nickels or without copper-nickel coating.
Grading
Grading is most important to determine a quarter’s market value. High-quality mint state coins (MS 60 to MS 70) can demand higher prices. For example:
- MS 60: ~$1
- MS 65: ~$22
- MS 67: Up to $375
- Rare MS 69 specimens: Sold for as much as $15,000.
Value of 1970 Washington Modern Quarter
The value of the 1970 Washington Quarter depends on the mint mark and condition:
- 1970 No Mint Mark Quarter: Mint state coins are available for anywhere from $1 to $375, while circulated editions are usually valued at face value.
- 1970 D Quarter: Values for circulated coins are face value, while uncirculated examples may be worth up to $2,800 for high-grade pieces.
- 1970 S Proof Quarter: Proof coins are valued at more money; PR 67 pieces are valued at around $7, while PR 69 pieces are valued at about $14. Unique Deep Cameo (DCAM) pieces may have considerably more value.
Also Read –
- 1969 Washington Modern Quarter: A Comprehensive Guide
- 1968 Washington Modern Quarter: A Complete Guide
- 1967 Washington Modern Quarter: A Numismatic Rarity
- 1965 Washington Modern Quarter: A Guide for Coin Enthusiasts
Conclusion
The 1970 Washington modern Quarter describes an important period in U.S. coinage, celebrating a special historical figure while transitioning from silver to a copper-nickel alloy. Serious collectors can be attracted to high-quality or poor specimens, even if they are usually affordable. The 1970 quarter provides a value and history blend that is worth looking into whether you’re a serious numismatist or just a hobbyist.