1965 Quarter Value Guide: Know Your 1965 Quarters Worth

The 1965 Washington Quarter is a fascinating coin in U.S. numismatic history due to its pivotal role in the transition away from silver coinage.

As a result, this quarter can fetch values ranging from a few cents to thousands of dollars depending on factors such as condition, mint errors, and even the metal used.

While the average 1965 quarter is worth no more than its face value, rare variations can be worth significantly more.

Why is the 1965 Quarter Unique?

The 1965 quarter was the first U.S. quarter minted without any silver, following the Coinage Act of 1965, which marked a major shift in U.S. coinage. Instead of 90% silver, these quarters were composed of copper and nickel.

This change, prompted by rising silver prices, created both confusion and opportunity, as some quarters were still struck on leftover silver planchets from previous years. These errors have since become incredibly valuable collector’s items.

Key Factors Influencing 1965 Quarter Value

Several factors influence the value of a 1965 quarter. These include:

1. Condition (Grade): Like most coins, the condition or grade of the 1965 quarter greatly affects its value. Coins graded by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) on the Sheldon Scale can range from MS60 (Mint State) to MS68.
   • A circulated 1965 quarter typically holds only face value (around $0.25).
   • A mint state (MS67) 1965 quarter can fetch anywhere from $400 to $900, while a perfect MS68 can reach as high as $16,500​.
2. Minting Errors: Errors can add significant value to a 1965 quarter.
   • Off-center strikes: A quarter struck off-center by 10-75% can be worth anywhere from $384 to $1,645, depending on the percentage off and the grade​.
   • Broadstrikes and Double Strikes: Broadstruck errors can sell for $200 to $500, while double strikes have fetched up to $900​.
   • Planchet Errors: Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover silver planchets from 1964. These rare silver errors can command between $7,050 and $16,800​.
3. Special Mint Set (SMS) Quarters: In 1965, the U.S. Mint produced “Special Mint Sets” (SMS), a type of proof-like finish designed for collectors. These coins, although more common, can still fetch premiums when in higher grades. For example, an SMS coin graded SP67 is valued at around $32, but Deep Cameo varieties can be worth up to $5,000​.

Current Value of a 1965 Quarter by Grade

Here is a breakdown of 1965 quarter values based on grade:

Grade	Estimated Value
Circulated (Good-VF)	$0.25 (face value)
MS60	$1.50 – $2.00
MS63	$5 – $10
MS65	$22 – $28
MS66	$30 – $100
MS67	$400 – $850
MS68	$16,500

Rare and Valuable 1965 Quarters

1. Silver Transitional Errors: As mentioned earlier, a small number of 1965 quarters were accidentally struck on silver planchets. These coins are among the rarest, and their value can reach upwards of $16,500.
2. Double Die Obverse/Reverse (DDO/DDR): These are coins that were mistakenly struck twice, causing parts of the design to appear doubled. Some 1965 quarters with a DDO have sold for $2,300, while DDR errors can be worth $175 to $360​.
3. Wrong Planchet Errors: Some quarters were struck on smaller planchets intended for dimes or nickels. A 1965 quarter struck on a dime planchet has sold for $1,440, while those struck on cent planchets have fetched around $552​.

Conclusion

The 1965 Washington Quarter is a notable coin in U.S. history, marking the end of silver coinage and the start of a new era with copper-nickel clad coins.

While most 1965 quarters are not particularly valuable, rare examples in high condition or those with minting errors can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.

Retirees or collectors should closely examine their coins, as some 1965 quarters, especially those made from silver or containing errors, hold significant value.

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References

• 33rd Square
• Hero Bullion
• Bold Precious Metals
• Bullion Shark
• Coleccionistas de Monedas