Collecting coins is not just a hobby it’s a journey into history, craftsmanship, and the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Among the many coins that catch the eyes of collectors, 1967 quarters hold a special place.
While most quarters from this era were produced in large quantities and seem ordinary at first glance, a few rare types, particularly error coins and no mint mark quarters, are highly valuable today.
These coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on their condition and rarity. In this article, we’ll explore the two most valuable 1967 quarters, explain why they are so prized, show how to identify them, and provide insights on their collectible market value.
A Quick Background on the 1967 Quarter
The 1967 Washington quarter was part of the series first issued in 1932 to honor George Washington. By the late 1960s, the United States Mint was producing quarters in huge quantities, making most coins from 1967 relatively common.
- Composition: 40% silver, 60% copper (until 1965), then switched to a clad composition of copper-nickel for 1967 coins.
- Mint Marks: Coins could carry a ‘D’ (Denver), ‘S’ (San Francisco), or no mint mark (Philadelphia).
- Design: Obverse features George Washington’s profile; reverse shows an eagle with outstretched wings.
While most 1967 quarters were everyday currency, a few stand out because of errors in the minting process or because they were produced in unusual circumstances, such as no mint mark issues.
1. The 1967 Quarter No Mint Mark
One of the most sought-after quarters from 1967 is the Philadelphia mint quarter with no mint mark.
What Is a No Mint Mark Quarter?
A no mint mark quarter is simply a coin that does not carry a ‘D’ for Denver or ‘S’ for San Francisco. In 1967, Philadelphia quarters often did not include a mint mark, but the rarer examples with perfect strike and condition are extremely collectible.
Why It’s Valuable
- Rarity: While many Philadelphia quarters exist, those in uncirculated condition with no signs of wear are much harder to find.
- Collector Demand: Coin collectors actively search for these coins to complete year sets or mint mark collections.
- Investment Potential: As silver coins become scarcer and historical coins gain popularity, these quarters often appreciate in value.
How to Identify
- Check the reverse side and the area near the eagle; absence of ‘D’ or ‘S’ indicates a no mint mark coin.
- Inspect the edges and surfaces; minting quality affects value.
- Ensure the coin is not artificially polished or cleaned, as this lowers collector interest.
Estimated Value
Depending on condition:
- Circulated: $10–$50
- Uncirculated / MS60–MS65 grade: $100–$500+
- Exceptional mint state examples: Can reach upwards of $1,000 in private sales or auctions
2. 1967 Quarter Error Coins
The second type of highly valuable quarter from 1967 is error coins. These are coins with mistakes made during the minting process, and even minor errors can make a coin collectible.
Common Errors in 1967 Quarters
- Double Die Errors – The coin shows doubled images or letters due to misalignment in the die.
- Off-Center Strikes – The design is shifted, leaving part of the coin blank.
- Die Cracks – Visible cracks on the surface caused by worn or broken dies.
- Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs) – A mint mark that appears to have been stamped twice, slightly misaligned.
Why Error Coins Are Valuable
- Uniqueness: Each error is slightly different, making the coin unique.
- Collector Excitement: Many coin collectors seek error coins as conversation pieces and display items.
- Rarity: Mistakes were unintentional, so they are always rarer than normal production coins.
How to Identify 1967 Quarter Errors
- Inspect coins under a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe.
- Look for irregularities in lettering, design, or strike alignment.
- Compare with reference images from coin guides or auction sites.
Estimated Value
- Minor errors in circulated condition: $20–$50
- Major errors in uncirculated condition: $500–$1,500+
- Rare double die or off-center strikes in perfect condition: $2,000+ at auction
Collecting Tips for 1967 Quarters
If you’re interested in collecting these valuable quarters, here are some practical tips:
- Check Your Pocket Change: Sometimes these coins are still circulating unnoticed.
- Examine Coin Lots Carefully: When buying lots of old quarters, inspect each coin for errors or mint marks.
- Use Proper Storage: Protect coins from scratches, moisture, and air. Use coin holders, albums, or capsules.
- Authenticate High-Value Coins: For coins potentially worth hundreds or thousands, get them graded and certified by professional services like PCGS or NGC.
- Stay Informed: Follow numismatic forums, auction results, and price guides to track market trends.
Why 1967 Quarters Are Still Sought After
Despite being over 50 years old, 1967 quarters continue to attract collectors for several reasons:
- Historical Significance: These quarters reflect the design and minting techniques of the 1960s.
- Affordable Entry Point: Many circulated 1967 quarters are inexpensive, making them accessible to beginners.
- Potential for High Returns: Rare no mint mark or error coins can bring hundreds or thousands of dollars.
- A Fun Hobby: Searching for errors and rare coins adds excitement and challenge to coin collecting.
Real Auction Examples
To give perspective:
- A 1967 no mint mark quarter in MS63 condition recently sold for around $420.
- An off-center error 1967 quarter fetched over $1,100 at a private auction.
- Collectors actively pay premium prices for double die or RPM errors in near-perfect condition.
Conclusion
The 1967 quarters may seem ordinary, but for collectors, they represent a world of hidden value. The two most valuable coins from this year the no mint mark quarter and error coins are especially sought after. Whether you are a beginner looking to start a coin collection or an experienced numismatist hunting for rare finds, keeping an eye out for these quarters could pay off handsomely.
Always remember: condition matters. Coins in uncirculated or mint state are significantly more valuable than worn examples. Using proper storage, staying informed about auction results, and checking coins carefully can help collectors maximize both enjoyment and investment potential.
Even today, many of these valuable 1967 quarters can still be found in circulation, meaning there’s always a chance that a rare coin might be hiding in someone’s pocket change.
FAQs:-
Which are the 2 most valuable 1967 quarters?
The 1967 no mint mark quarter and certain error coins from 1967 are the most sought-after by collectors.
What is a no mint mark 1967 quarter?
A no mint mark quarter lacks the ‘D’ or ‘S’ stamp, meaning it was minted in Philadelphia, making it rarer for collectors.
Where can I sell or appraise my 1967 quarters?
You can use coin dealers, online marketplaces, or auction houses specializing in rare coins.