The 1965 Washington Quarter might look like an ordinary 25-cent piece, but certain error coins from this year can fetch up to $35,000!
This article delves into the details of this valuable coin, exploring its composition, errors, historical significance, and the growing demand among collectors.
Why is the 1965 Quarter So Valuable?
The 1965 quarter became a sought-after collectible due to a rare minting error affecting certain coins. While the typical 1965 quarter is worth only its face value, those with the rare error can skyrocket in value.
This error involves a unique flaw in the eyes of George Washington’s bust on the coin. This minting mistake has turned some of these coins into a collector’s dream, commanding prices as high as $35,000 in some cases.
Historical Significance of the 1965 Quarter
The 1965 quarter holds a special place in U.S. coin history. It was the first year quarters were made without silver, following the Coinage Act of 1965, which shifted U.S. quarters and dimes from silver to a copper-nickel alloy due to a silver shortage.
This change in composition marked a significant shift in U.S. monetary policy, making the 1965 quarter a symbol of economic transition.
Composition and Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm (0.955 inches) |
| Weight | 5.67 grams (0.20 ounces) |
| Thickness | 1.75 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Shape | Circular |
The standard 1965 quarter weighs 5.67 grams, while earlier silver quarters weighed 6.25 grams. This difference in weight and the absence of silver is crucial for identifying the coin’s historical context.
The Rare Minting Errors Driving Up Value
- Transitional Metal Error: One of the most valuable errors is when a 1965 quarter was struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the intended copper-nickel alloy. Such coins are exceptionally rare, with values ranging between $7,050 and $16,800, depending on condition.
- Double Tail Error: This extremely rare error features an extra tail on the eagle side of the coin. Only a few such coins are known to exist, and they have fetched between $41,000 and $80,000 at auction.
- Off-Center Strike: Coins with this error are not centered properly during the minting process, leading to part of the design being cut off. These can be worth between $95 and $312, depending on the degree of the error.
- Double Die Obverse (DDO): This error shows doubling on the date, the words “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Such coins can be valued at over $2,300.
- Clipped Planchet: A coin with this error has a portion of the metal “clipped” off. This occurs when the coin blank is improperly fed into the press. These coins can be worth around $1,440 or more.
Value Chart for 1965 Quarters
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| PrAg | $0.30 |
| Good (G) | $0.30 |
| Very Good (VG) | $0.30 |
| Fine (F) | $0.30 |
| Very Fine (VF) | $0.30 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $0.30 |
| MS50 | $0.40 |
| MS53 | $0.40 |
| MS55 | $0.50 – $0.60 |
| MS58 | $0.75 – $0.85 |
| MS60 | $1.50 – $2 |
| MS61 | $2.50 – $3 |
| MS62 | $3.50 – $4 |
| MS63 | $5 – $6 |
| MS64 | $7.50 – $8.50 |
| MS65 | $10 |
| MS66 | $30 – $100 |
| MS67 | $375 – $900 |
| MS68 | $5250 |
High-grade quarters, especially those graded MS67 or MS68 by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS, are exceptionally valuable. A rare 1965 silver quarter can command prices ranging from $7,050 to $16,800, while an error coin like a double-tail can reach upwards of $35,000.
Conclusion
The 1965 Washington Quarter represents a fascinating piece of U.S. coin history. Its value, driven by rare minting errors, has made it one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. If you own a 1965 quarter, take a close look; you might be holding a treasure worth thousands of dollars!
FAQs
1. Why is the 1965 quarter worth $35,000?
The value comes from a rare minting error affecting Washington’s bust, making the coin highly collectible.
2. How can I tell if my 1965 quarter has a minting error?
Look for errors in the eyes of Washington’s bust or off-center strikes. It’s best to have the coin authenticated by professionals like PCGS or NGC.
3. What is the composition of the 1965 quarter?
It is made of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, with no silver content.
4. How rare are 1965 silver quarters?
Extremely rare. They were mistakenly struck on 90% silver planchets and are highly valuable to collectors.
5. Where can I sell my 1965 quarter?
You can sell your coin through online auction platforms like eBay, or have it appraised and authenticated by professional grading services before selling to a numismatic dealer or at auction.
References
- GBF News
- Craftbuds
- Vibes.okdiario