The Washington Quarter is a popular coin in the United States, first made in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. From 1965 to 1998, the U.S. Mint changed the metal used to make these coins, switching from 90% silver to a copper-nickel mix. This period is very important for collectors because of the different materials and the unique bicentennial quarter.
In this guide, we’ll explore the values of Washington Quarter clad coins made from 1965 to 1998. You’ll learn about mint states (coin conditions), special mint sets, and how to understand the worth of these coins.
Washington Quarter Clad Composition (1965–1998)
Before 1965, U.S. quarters were mostly made of silver (90% silver and 10% copper). However, the rising cost of silver led the U.S. Mint to change the materials. From 1965, quarters were made with a “clad” composition. This means they had an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a core made of pure copper. This change is known as the beginning of the “clad era” for Washington Quarters.
Coin Grading and Mint States
Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers meaning better condition. Here’s a quick look at some key terms:
- MS (Mint State): Coins that have never been used.
- SMS (Special Mint Set): Coins made for collectors with better quality.
- Cameo (C): Coins with a frosty design and a shiny background.
- Deep Cameo (DC): A more detailed version of the cameo effect, found on proof coins.
Washington Quarter Values (1965–1998)
Here’s a table showing the value of some Washington Quarters from 1965 to 1998. The value depends on the coin’s condition and year of production.
| Year | Mintage | MS66 | MS67 | MS68 | Special Mint Set (SMS) – MS70DC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | 1,819,717,540 | $40 | $50 | $140 | $1,500 |
| 1966 | 821,101,500 | $12 | $50 | $125 | $4,000 |
| 1967 | 1,524,031,848 | $40 | $350 | N/A | $4,000 |
| 1968 | 220,731,500 | $25 | $200 | N/A | N/A |
| 1970-S | Proof, 2,632,810 | N/A | $747 | N/A | N/A |
| 1976-S | Bicentennial Proof | N/A | $20 | N/A | $5,888 (40% silver proof) |
Important Years and Coin Types
- 1965–1967: These years are known for the high number of coins produced, but some coins in mint condition are still valuable.
- 1970-S Proof: This proof coin, especially with a deep cameo finish, is worth a lot to collectors.
- Bicentennial Quarter (1975–1976): This coin had a special design to celebrate America’s 200th birthday. Some were made of 40% silver, making them more valuable.
Key Factors That Affect Coin Value
Several things determine how much a Washington Quarter from 1965 to 1998 is worth:
- Condition: Coins in mint state (MS66, MS67, MS68) are more valuable.
- Special Mint Sets: Coins from SMS have a better appearance and can be more valuable, especially those with a deep cameo finish.
- Proof Coins: Proof coins, especially those with deep cameo finishes, are highly sought after by collectors.
- Rarity: Coins that are rare in high grades, like the 1970-S proof or the 1992-S silver proof, can be worth a lot.
Conclusion
Even though Washington Quarters from 1965 to 1998 don’t contain silver, they are still important to collectors because of their historical value and the special editions. Collectors should look for coins in good condition, especially those in mint state or proof sets, to get the most value. Whether you’re new to collecting or a seasoned expert, Washington Quarters from this period offer a great chance to own a piece of American history.
FAQ’s
What is a clad Washington Quarter?
A clad Washington Quarter refers to quarters made after 1965 that are composed of a copper core with an outer layer of nickel and copper, instead of being made from silver. These were introduced due to the rising cost of silver.
Are Washington Quarters from 1965–1998 valuable?
Most Washington Quarters from this period are common and only worth their face value. However, certain coins in mint state (MS) or special mint sets (SMS), particularly with proof or deep cameo finishes, can be worth significantly more to collectors.
What is the most valuable Washington Quarter from 1965–1998?
The 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter, especially with a deep cameo finish, is one of the most valuable coins from this period, with values reaching over $700 depending on its condition.
