Overview of the 1966 Washington Quarter
The 1966 Washington Quarter is a common, non‑silver circulating coin struck after the U.S. removed mint marks in 1965. It shares the familiar obverse portrait of George Washington and the reverse with the eagle design used from 1932 until 1998.
For collectors and sellers, the 1966 quarter is important to understand because it is plentiful but still offers opportunities for quality pieces, error specimens, and careful grading to add value.
1966 Washington Quarter Specifications
Knowing the basic technical facts helps when identifying and authenticating a 1966 quarter. These specifications match modern clad quarters introduced after 1964.
- Composition: Copper core with cupronickel cladding (75% copper, 25% nickel outer layers).
- Weight: 5.67 grams (standard modern quarter weight).
- Diameter: 24.3 mm; Edge: Reeded.
- Mint marks: None on coins dated 1965–1967; 1966 quarters were struck at multiple mints but carry no mint mark.
Design and Production Details for the 1966 Washington Quarter
John Flanagan’s Washington portrait remained on the obverse, while the reverse featured the heraldic eagle. The design is the same as the earlier silver issues except for metal composition and lack of mint marks during this specific period.
Because mint marks were removed in 1965–1967 to discourage hoarding, you will not find a D or S on standard 1966 quarters.
How to Identify a 1966 Washington Quarter
Start with composition and visual clues. A quick magnet test will not detect non‑magnetic copper/nickel, so rely on weight and feel for authentication rather than magnetism.
Look at the high points for wear: Washington’s cheek, hair above the ear, and the eagle’s breast feathers reveal circulation quickly. A sharply struck obverse with full hair detail is a sign of an uncirculated or higher grade piece.
Key points to inspect
- Obverse details: hair strands, jawline, and rim contact.
- Reverse details: eagle feathers and lettering clarity.
- Edge condition: intact reeds with no flattening or excessive nicks.
- Surface quality: presence of bag marks, scratches, or original luster.
Grading Tips and What Adds Value
Grade is the main driver of value for 1966 quarters. Most are common in circulated grades, so coins graded MS63–MS65 by a reputable service can attract premiums.
Other factors that raise value include original luster, exceptional strike, attractive toning, or confirmed mint errors. Graders look for minimal contact marks and full detail on the highest points of the design.
Common error types to watch for
- Double die obverse or reverse (rare for 1966, but possible).
- Off‑center strikes and broadstrikes.
- Clipping or planchet defects from the production process.
Market Value and Selling Tips for the 1966 Washington Quarter
Typical circulated 1966 quarters are worth face value or a small premium to collectors. Uncirculated examples obtain higher prices, and certified high grades capture the strongest demand.
If selling, photograph the coin well, show obverse and reverse, and note any notable features such as full luster or unusual toning. Use a trusted grading service if you believe the coin may be high grade or an error type.
Practical Care and Storage
Handle coins by the edges and store them in inert holders such as Mylar flips, coin capsules, or archival albums. Avoid PVC flips and prolonged exposure to humidity or direct sunlight.
Label containers with date, grade (if known), and any distinguishing traits. Proper storage preserves value and makes later sale or submission for grading simpler.
The U.S. Treasury removed mint marks from most coins from 1965 through 1967 to discourage hoarding during a coin shortage. That means a 1966 quarter will not display a mint mark even if it was produced at the Denver or San Francisco mint.
Real‑World Example: A Collector’s Find
A regional collector bought a mixed lot of mid‑20th century coins and found several 1966 quarters in exceptional condition. One coin retained full luster with minimal contact marks and was submitted to a grading service.
After certification, the coin attracted interest from other collectors because of its high grade relative to the common availability of 1966 quarters. The sale illustrated that even common dates can produce worthwhile returns when the grade and appearance are strong.
Common Mistakes New Collectors Make
- Assuming all older coins are silver — the 1966 quarter is clad, not silver.
- Overpaying for raw coins without comparing recent auction results or certified sales.
- Handling coins carelessly and creating bag marks that lower grade and value.
Final Practical Checklist for the 1966 Washington Quarter
- Confirm composition: copper core with cupronickel cladding, non‑silver.
- Inspect for wear at high points: hair and cheek on obverse, eagle feathers on reverse.
- Consider grading if the coin shows full luster and sharp detail.
- Store properly in inert holders and document provenance if possible.
With these practical steps, you can identify, evaluate, and care for 1966 Washington Quarters effectively. While most are common, attention to grade and condition can turn a simple date into a valuable collectible.