1967 Quarter Value: The Ultimate Collector‘s Guide

As a coin collector and numismatic expert, I‘m often asked about the value of specific coins. One of the most common questions I hear is, "How much is a 1967 quarter worth?" While the answer may seem straightforward at first glance, there‘s actually quite a bit of nuance and complexity to this topic.

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive deep into everything you need to know about 1967 quarter values. We‘ll explore the coin‘s history and significance, break down the factors that influence its worth, and provide detailed pricing data for various grades and varieties. Whether you‘re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this article will give you the knowledge and tools to assess your coins like a pro.

Historical Context and Background

To fully understand the value of 1967 quarters, it‘s important to first examine their place in numismatic history. 1967 marked a significant transition year for the Washington quarter series, which began in 1932 and continues to the present day.

For the first 30+ years of the series, quarters were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. However, due to rising silver prices in the 1960s, the intrinsic metal value of the coins began to exceed their face value. To address this issue, the U.S. Mint transitioned to a copper-nickel clad composition starting in 1965.

1967 was the third year of clad quarter production. The new coins consisted of outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core. This composition reduced the quarter‘s weight from 6.25 grams to 5.67 grams and changed its electromagnetic properties.

Another important characteristic of 1967 quarters is their lack of a mint mark. From 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint omitted mint marks from all coins in an effort to discourage collecting and hoarding. This means that there is no way to tell if a given 1967 quarter was struck at the Philadelphia or Denver mint based on its appearance alone.

With over 1.5 billion quarters produced in 1967, it is an extremely common date in the series. Most examples are worth only face value in circulated condition. However, as we will see, there are numerous exceptions and rarities that can command significant premiums.

What Makes a 1967 Quarter Valuable?

As with any coin, a 1967 quarter‘s value is primarily determined by three key factors: grade (condition), variety (unique attributes), and overall market demand. Let‘s break down each of these in more detail.

Grade and Condition

The single most important aspect in determining a coin‘s worth is its grade. Grade refers to a coin‘s level of preservation and absence of wear, damage, or other imperfections. Coins are graded on a 70-point scale, with 70 being absolutely perfect.

For 1967 quarters, the most commonly encountered grades are:

• AG (About Good) – Heavy wear, date readable but design elements mostly flat
• G (Good) – Moderate to heavy wear, most lettering visible but worn
• VG (Very Good) – Moderate wear, design details visible but lacking sharpness
• F (Fine) – Light to moderate even wear, all major details clear
• VF (Very Fine) – Light wear on high points, slightly clearer details than Fine
• EF (Extremely Fine) – Very light friction on high points, most details sharp
• AU (Almost Uncirculated) – Slight wear on high points, luster may be slightly impaired
• MS/Mint State (60-70) – No wear, varying levels of luster, marks and visual appeal

Gem uncirculated examples in MS65 and higher are quite scarce and valuable. According to PCGS CoinFacts, the finest known 1967 quarter is a single example graded MS68. Pristine SMS and Proof coins in the highest grades also command substantial premiums.

Here is a table with the PCGS Price Guide values for regular strike 1967 quarters in each grade:

Grade	Value
MS67	$250
MS66	$60
MS65	$35
MS64	$20
MS63	$13
AU58	$12
AU55	$10
AU50	$8
EF45	$5
VF35	$2.50
VF30	$1.50
VF20	$0.75
F12	$0.50
VG8	$0.35
G6	$0.25
AG3	$0.25

As you can see, grade has a massive impact on value. The jump from AU to MS grades is especially significant, with gem examples worth multiples of lightly circulated coins.

Varieties and Errors

Another major factor that can make a 1967 quarter valuable is if it exhibits a rare die variety or an unusual minting error. While less common than some other years, there are still several notable varieties and errors known for this date. Some of the most desirable include:

1967 SMS Quarters

From 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets (SMS) as a substitute for traditional proof sets. These coins feature a distinctive satin or matte-like finish and were struck from specially prepared dies and planchets. 1967 SMS quarters are relatively available in grades up to SP68, but they become conditional rarities in SP69. Cameo and deep cameo contrasted examples are highly prized by variety collectors.

1967 Proof Quarters

The Philadelphia Mint struck a limited number of proof sets in 1967 for collectors. Proof quarters have sharp frosty devices and deep mirror fields. They were made using highly polished dies and specially treated planchets. Proof quarters are graded on a separate scale from regular strikes, with PR70 being perfectly pristine. Gems in PR67 and higher are quite scarce.

Doubled Die Obverse Variety

One of the most famous and valuable varieties for the 1967 quarter is the doubled die obverse (DDO). This error occurred when the obverse die received an additional impression from the hub at a slightly offset angle. As a result, some design elements like the lettering and date appear visibly doubled. Only a handful of genuine examples have been authenticated by PCGS and NGC. A high-end piece graded PCGS MS66 DDO realized $14,100 in a 2021 auction.

Struck Through and Capped Die Errors

Coins that exhibit a significant die striking error are highly sought after by specialists. One dramatic example is a 1967 quarter that was struck through a capped die, causing a major distortion of the design on one side. This unique mint error graded NGC MS61 sold for $3,840 in 2015. Other notable errors include off-center strikes, double strikes, and broadstrikes without a collar.

Wrong Planchet and Off-Metal Errors

Occasionally, a coin is inadvertently struck on the wrong size or composition planchet intended for another denomination. Some 1967 quarters are known struck on nickel, dime, and cent planchets. Depending on the size and weight of the wrong planchet, these off-metal errors can be quite visually dramatic. A 1967 quarter struck on a 90% silver dime planchet graded NGC MS62 realized $2,300 in a 2012 Heritage sale.

Here is a table summarizing some notable 1967 quarter varieties and their recent valuations:

Variety/Error	Grade	Auction Price
Doubled Die Obv	PCGS MS66	$14,100 (2021)
Struck Thru Capped Die	NGC MS61	$3,840 (2015)
90% Silver Dime Planchet	NGC MS62	$2,300 (2012)
Partial Collar Strike	PCGS MS62	$1,200 (2017)
Nickel Planchet	PCGS MS65	$1,116 (2009)
Cent Planchet	PCGS MS64RB	$690 (2004)

While these dramatic errors are very rare, they demonstrate the potential for 1967 quarters to be worth substantial sums to specialists when authenticated by a major grading service.

Market Demand and Eye Appeal

The final piece of the puzzle in determining a coin‘s value is market demand. In other words, how many people want it and what are they willing to pay? A coin can be very rare in absolute terms but still not command high prices if there are no eager buyers.

For 1967 quarters, the overall market demand is generally softer than some other classic series like Mercury dimes or Standing Liberty quarters. This is likely because it is such a common date and there are relatively few widely collected varieties.

That said, superb gems in the highest grades are still very liquid and trade frequently at major auctions. Eye appeal is especially important for these condition rarities. Coins with a virtually flawless, frosty luster, and an above average strike will bring the strongest prices.

Attractive toned examples are also popular with registry set collectors. Quarters with vivid, colorful toning across both sides that is clearly natural can sell for large multiples of a typical white coin‘s price.

How to Determine the Value of Your 1967 Quarter

Now that we‘ve covered the main determinants of value, let‘s look at some practical steps you can take to assess your own 1967 quarters.

1. Examine the coin closely under good lighting. Use a loupe or magnifying glass to check for any obvious errors or varieties. Refer to published images and diagnostics to identify known oddities.

2. Evaluate the coin‘s surface preservation. Is it worn from circulation or does it still have original mint luster? Check for any large marks, scratches, spots or other issues that may impact the grade.

3. Compare your coin‘s details to the grading standards published by PCGS or NGC. Pay attention to high points like Washington‘s hair, cheek and ear. Note any loss of fine details or flatness indicating wear.

4. Consider submitting your coin to a reputable third-party grading service for authentication and encapsulation. This is especially important for rare varieties, errors, and high grade examples. Having a coin professionally certified can dramatically increase its marketability and value.

5. Research recent auction records and price guide values for similar coins. Look for pieces with the same grade, designation, and visual appeal as yours. Remember that retail prices from dealers will typically be higher than wholesale auction prices.

6. Get second opinions from trusted collectors or dealers. Share high-resolution photos of your coin on numismatic forums or social media groups. Experienced hobbyists can often provide valuable insights and advice.

Ultimately, your coin is worth what someone else is willing to pay for it. By arming yourself with knowledge, data, and expert opinions, you‘ll be well positioned to make informed decisions about buying, selling, or trading your 1967 quarters.

Frequently Asked Questions

To wrap up this guide, let‘s address some common questions and concerns that collectors have about 1967 quarter values.

Q: Are there any 1967 quarters made of silver?

No, all 1967 Washington quarters are clad composition and contain no precious metal. Some earlier years in the series (1932-1964) were minted in 90% silver and 10% copper alloy.

Q: How much is a 1967 proof quarter worth?

According to the PCGS Price Guide, a 1967 proof quarter in PR65 is valued around $20. That increases to $70 in PR67 and $150 in PR68. Cameo and deep cameo contrasted pieces bring even stronger premiums in the same grade.

Q: Where is the best place to sell valuable 1967 quarters?

If you have a rare variety or high grade coin, selling it through a major auction house like Heritage, GreatCollections or Stacks Bowers will likely yield the strongest price. For more common pieces, local coin shops, shows, or online marketplaces like eBay are good options. Always research a dealer‘s reputation and return policy before selling.

Q: Is it safe to clean my 1967 quarter?

No! Never attempt to clean or alter a coin‘s surface as this will permanently damage it and significantly lower its value. Collectors prefer coins with original, untampered surfaces even if they show signs of age or toning.

Q: How can I store my 1967 quarters safely?

The best way to preserve your coins is to keep them in archival-quality holders made of inert, non-reactive plastic. Avoid PVC flips or other materials that can cause discoloration or corrosion over time. Store your coins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.

Final Thoughts

I hope this in-depth guide has given you a comprehensive understanding of 1967 quarter values and how to navigate the marketplace as a collector. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to rare coins. The more you educate yourself about grading, varieties, and pricing, the better equipped you‘ll be to make smart buying and selling decisions.

While the odds of finding a hugely valuable 1967 quarter in circulation are slim, there are still plenty of interesting pieces for collectors to pursue. Whether you‘re drawn to superb gems, colorful toners, or dramatic mint errors, this series offers something for every taste and budget.

As you build your collection, don‘t forget to enjoy the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of acquiring pieces that speak to you personally. Numismatics is as much about the journey as it is the destination. By staying passionate, diligent, and connected to the hobby community, you‘ll be well on your way to assembling a meaningful and valuable collection of 1967 quarters. Happy hunting!