1967 Quarter Value What Makes It Worth More Than Face Value

The 1967 Washington quarter is a familiar coin to many Americans, having circulated widely during the late 1960s. While most are worth only 25 cents, certain specimens can command prices far exceeding their face value. Collectors, historians, and investors alike seek out these special coins—not for spending, but for their historical significance, rarity, and condition. Understanding what transforms an ordinary quarter into a valuable collectible requires knowledge of minting practices, grading standards, and market trends.

Mint Marks and Their Impact on Value

One of the first things collectors examine on a 1967 quarter is the presence—or absence—of a mint mark. Unlike earlier years, 1967 was a unique year in U.S. Mint history because the Philadelphia and Denver mints temporarily stopped using mint marks. This decision was made to discourage coin collecting during a time of national coin shortage. As a result, all 1967 quarters lack a \"P\" or \"D\" below the date, regardless of where they were produced.

This uniform appearance leads many to assume all 1967 quarters are identical in value. However, subtle differences in strike quality, luster, and surface preservation still create variation. Coins from Denver may show slightly different die characteristics due to variations in production batches, though this requires expert examination to identify.

Tip: Even without visible mint marks, always verify the origin by consulting certified grading services if you suspect your coin has premium qualities.

Condition and Grading: The Key to Higher Value

A coin’s condition is the single most influential factor in determining its worth. The Sheldon Scale, used by professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), rates coins from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). For a 1967 quarter to exceed face value, it generally needs to be at least in \"About Uncirculated\" (AU-50) condition or higher.

Coins graded MS-63 (Mint State) or above—showing full luster, no wear, and minimal contact marks—can sell for $5 to $15 in today’s market. Exceptional examples graded MS-65 or higher may fetch $25 to $50, especially if they exhibit strong eye appeal, deep cartwheel luster, or cameo contrast (on proof-like specimens).

“Grading accuracy separates hobbyists from serious collectors. A single point difference on the Sheldon Scale can double a coin’s value.” — James Reed, Numismatist and Author of *Modern U.S. Coin Values*

Rarity and Errors That Increase Collector Demand

While no major minting varieties were officially released for the 1967 quarter, error coins and minor die varieties can significantly increase value. These anomalies occur during the minting process and are often rare or one-of-a-kind. Common types include:

• Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Caused by misaligned hub impressions, leading to doubling of design elements like the date or motto.
• Off-Center Strikes: When the planchet isn’t properly centered under the dies, resulting in a partial image.
• Broadstrikes: Occur when the collar fails to contain the metal, producing a flat, wide coin with blurred edges.
• Clipped Planchets: Irregularly shaped blanks that lead to crescent-shaped coins.

Although true doubled dies from 1967 are extremely rare, some repunched mint mark (RPM) candidates and die cracks have been documented. Any suspected error should be submitted to a third-party grading service for authentication.

Step-by-Step Guide to Evaluating Your 1967 Quarter

1. Examine the Surface: Use a magnifying glass (at least 5x power) to check for scratches, hairlines, or wear on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s wing feathers.
2. Check for Luster: Tilt the coin under light. A genuine uncirculated piece will show a shimmering “cartwheel” effect across the surface.
3. Look for Errors: Inspect the date, lettering, and borders for irregularities such as doubling, smudging, or missing details.
4. Compare to Known Examples: Use online databases like USA Coin Book or PCGS CoinFacts to compare images and recent sale prices.
5. Submit for Grading (Optional): If you believe the coin is high-grade or contains an error, consider professional grading for verification and increased resale potential.

Market Trends and Realized Prices

To understand current values, it helps to review actual auction results and dealer listings. Below is a summary table showing average retail values for 1967 quarters based on grade and type:

Grade/Type	Condition Description	Average Value (USD)
Circulated (G-VG)	Worn surfaces, readable date	$0.25 – $0.50
About Uncirculated (AU-50)	Minimal wear, mostly original luster	$2.00 – $4.00
Mint State 63 (MS-63)	Full luster, minor imperfections	$5.00 – $8.00
Mint State 65 (MS-65)	Bold strike, strong luster, few marks	$15.00 – $30.00
Proof-Like or Cameo (MS-65+)	High reflectivity, contrast between fields and devices	$40.00 – $75.00
Verified Error (e.g., DDO, Off-Center)	Authenticated by PCGS or NGC	$100.00 – $1,000+

Note: Values assume silver composition. All 1967 quarters are 90% silver, containing approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver. At a silver price of $25 per ounce, the melt value alone is about $4.50—already making even worn pieces worth more than face value.

Mini Case Study: The Discovery of a High-Grade 1967 Quarter

In 2021, a retired schoolteacher from Ohio found a 1967 quarter while sorting through her late father’s old coin jar. Initially dismissing it as common, she later noticed its bright white luster and sharp detail. After researching online, she sent it to PCGS for grading. It returned certified as MS-66, a rare find for this date. With strong demand among silver quarter collectors, the coin sold at auction for $210—nearly 850 times its face value.

This case highlights how overlooked coins in household collections can hold hidden value. Proper storage in a dry environment preserved its condition over decades, proving that everyday handling habits matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 1967 quarter made of silver?

Yes, all 1967 Washington quarters are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. They contain 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver, giving them intrinsic melt value beyond face value.

Why doesn’t my 1967 quarter have a mint mark?

In response to a national coin shortage, the U.S. Mint removed mint marks from coins in 1965, 1966, and 1967. Both Philadelphia and Denver-minted quarters from this period appear identical, lacking a \"P\" or \"D\". Mint marks returned in 1968.

How do I know if my 1967 quarter is valuable?

Start by checking its condition. If it shows no wear, has reflective surfaces, and appears well-struck, it may be uncirculated. Look for luster, sharp details, and any visible errors. Compare it to grading photos online or consult a local coin dealer. For maximum accuracy, submit it to PCGS or NGC.

Checklist: What to Do with Your 1967 Quarter

• ✔️ Confirm it’s a 1967 Washington quarter (not a state quarter or newer version)
• ✔️ Examine for wear, scratches, and surface damage
• ✔️ Assess luster and strike quality under good lighting
• ✔️ Search for possible mint errors or die varieties
• ✔️ Determine silver content (all 1967 quarters are 90% silver)
• ✔️ Consider professional grading if condition appears high-end
• ✔️ Track current silver prices to assess minimum baseline value

Conclusion: Unlock the Hidden Potential of Your Pocket Change

The 1967 quarter may seem unremarkable at first glance, but beneath its silvery surface lies the potential for real value. Whether driven by precious metal content, exceptional preservation, or rare minting flaws, these coins offer tangible rewards for those who look closer. By understanding grading, recognizing errors, and staying informed about market trends, anyone can turn spare change into a meaningful collection or investment.

💬 Found a 1967 quarter with unusual features? Share your discovery in the comments or consult a professional grader—you might be holding a hidden treasure.