For many coin collectors, the Washington quarter series is a favorite – and 1974 marked a notable year for this iconic coin. 1974 was the last year to feature the Heraldic Eagle reverse design before the special Bicentennial quarters of 1975-1976. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about 1974 quarters and their value.
Whether you‘re a seasoned collector or just starting out, discover the key varieties, errors, and rare examples to look for. We‘ll discuss how condition and grade affect value, and reveal the current market prices for these fascinating coins. Most importantly, you‘ll learn practical tips for building your collection. Let‘s dive in!
1974 Washington Quarter Overview & Mintage
In 1974, the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints struck Washington quarters for circulation and collector sets. Here‘s a breakdown of the year‘s mintages:
- 1974 Philadelphia (no mint mark): 801,456,000 minted
- 1974-D Denver (D mint mark): 353,160,300 minted
- 1974-S Proof (San Francisco): 2,612,568 minted
As you can see, no quarters were minted in 1975. Instead, the U.S. Mint was busy striking special Bicentennial quarters dual-dated 1776-1976, which were released into circulation from 1975-1976.
While over a billion 1974 quarters were produced in total, the Proof and certain scarce varieties are prized by collectors. Later, we‘ll cover which ones are most valuable and how to identify them.
Coin Specifications & Composition
All regular-issue 1974 Washington Quarters have the following specifications:
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (copper-nickel clad)
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Edge: Reeded
Note that post-1964 Washington quarters like the 1974 are copper-nickel clad, not 90% silver like earlier issues in the series. So if you find a 1974 quarter struck in silver, you‘ve likely discovered a very rare and valuable error coin!
Obverse & Reverse Design
The 1974 quarter‘s obverse features a left-facing portrait of George Washington, the first U.S. President. This iconic design was created by sculptor John Flanagan and first appeared on quarters in 1932, the 200th anniversary of Washington‘s birth.
"LIBERTY" arcs around the top, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left of Washington. The year 1974 and mint mark (if any) are found at the bottom.
1974 was the last year the Washington quarter bore the Heraldic Eagle reverse before being replaced by the Colonial Drummer Boy design for the Bicentennial coins. The eagle has its wings spread, clutching an olive branch and arrows – symbols of peace and war. A shield is at the eagle‘s breast with 13 stars above its head, representing the original colonies.
"UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" lines the top, with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" directly below, while "QUARTER DOLLAR" spans the bottom rim. This elegant eagle design by John Flanagan is an iconic part of the coin‘s legacy.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Certain varieties and errors can make a 1974 quarter particularly collectible. While regular circulated examples only command a small premium over face value, these scarce types are much more valuable:
1974 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Quarter
A doubled die error can occur when a die receives an additional impression from the hub at a slightly offset angle. The doubling is most visible in the lettering and date. A notable 1974 DDO quarter shows clear doubling on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. Mint state examples have sold for over $300.
1974-D 8-Feather Reverse Quarter
Most heraldic eagle reverses clearly show 9 feather details on the eagle‘s left leg (right side as you view it). But some 1974-D quarters have a more "skeletal" eagle leg with just 7-8 feathers visible. While less pronounced doubling can be found, mint state specimens of this variety regularly sell for $100-200.
1974 Broadstrike Quarter
A broadstrike error occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar die, causing the coin to expand and appear slightly oversized. A boldly struck mint state example recently sold for nearly $100.
1974 Silver Quarter
As mentioned, all regular 1974 quarters should be copper-nickel clad, not silver. However, some coin experts believe a few silver planchets left over from 1964 may have been struck as quarters in 1974 by mistake. No such "silver transitional errors" have been officially confirmed for circulation strikes – but if found, one would likely sell for thousands!
1974-S Proof Quarter Varieties
The 1974-S Proof quarters from collector sets come in a few varieties. Proof coins are struck multiple times with specially prepared dies, giving them extra-sharp details, mirror-like fields and an overall exceptional finish.
The most valuable are Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs, which have heavily frosted raised elements contrasting with the reflective fields. One 1974-S DCAM graded PR-70 by PCGS sold for $10,925 in 2006! Even regular 1974-S Proofs commonly sell for $15-20 each in top condition.
Grading & Condition
As you may have noticed, a 1974 quarter‘s grade has a huge impact on its value. Coins are graded on a 70-point scale from Poor-1 to Perfect Mint State/Proof-70. Here‘s what to look for:
Circulated grades (Poor to About Uncirculated) will show varying degrees of wear on the high points like Washington‘s hair, cheek and robe. The luster will be gone and the surfaces likely nicked or scratched from use. About Uncirculated (AU) coins may have only slight wear on the high points.
Mint State (MS) grades from 60 to 70 have no wear, but may show contact marks, hairlines or luster breaks from bag storage. A coin‘s luster, strike, surface preservation and eye appeal determine its grade. The highest mint state grades represent coins nearly as pristine as the moment they left the die.
Proof coins are graded on the same scale, with flawless deep cameo contrast coins commanding the highest prices. To earn a PR/PF-70 grade, a proof coin must have zero imperfections visible under 5x magnification.
While you can attempt to grade your coins yourself, sending them to a trusted third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC will provide a more objective and universally accepted assessment for top varieties. Rare errors and high grade examples should always be certified.
Current 1974 Quarter Values
Regular circulated 1974 quarters, even those minted in Denver, are worth only a slight premium over face value if worn. In mint state, a 1974-P quarter graded MS-66 is worth around $15-20. At MS-67 the value is $75-100, and coins graded 67+ are worth hundreds.
Similarly, a 1974-D quarter grading MS-66 is valued at $25-30, while an MS-67 example fetches $150-200 or more. A 1974-D graded MS-67+ by PCGS brought $1,450 in a 2020 auction.
1974-S Proof quarters are worth the most in top grades, especially Deep Cameo examples. A DCAM coin graded PR-69 regularly sells for $100-150, while a "perfect" PR-70 is valued at $500 and up. The record is $10,925 for a PCGS PR-70 DCAM coin sold in 2006.
Prices can vary based on eye appeal and current market conditions, so consider these figures as a general guide. Consult the PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Coin Explorer price guides for up-to-date values.
Building A Collection
1974 quarters are an excellent starting point for a Washington quarter collection. First, try to track down an example of each regular issue – 1974-P, 1974-D and 1974-S Proof. Circulation strikes in high grades are still affordable, so uncirculated coins are your best bet.
Next, keep an eye out for notable varieties like the 1974 doubled die and 1974-D 8-feather reverse. Rare errors like off-centers and broadstrikes are also fun additions if you can find a bold example.
For registry set collectors, a high-grade 1974-S Deep Cameo proof is a must-have. Coins at the PR-69 and PR-70 level are the pinnacle, with prices to match.
Decide what you wish to focus on based on your budget and goals, but most importantly, collect what you love! The satisfaction of tracking down a key issue is what makes the hobby so rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 1974 quarter silver?
A: No, 1974 Washington quarters have a copper-nickel clad composition and contain no silver. While there are rumors of rare silver errors, none have been officially confirmed.
Q: What makes a 1974 quarter valuable?
A: Scarce varieties like the 1974 doubled die obverse, significant errors, and high grade examples (especially 1974-S proofs) are the most valuable 1974 quarters.
Q: How much is a 1974 quarter worth?
A: Circulated 1974 quarters are worth only slightly more than face value if worn. Uncirculated examples range from $10-20 in MS-66 to hundreds in MS-67 and up. 1974-S Proofs are valued at $5-10 in PR-65, $100-150 in DCAM PR-69 and over $500 in PR-70.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1974 quarter?
A: You‘ll find the "D" mint mark for Denver on the obverse just below the year 1974. Philadelphia-minted coins have no mint mark. 1974-S Proof quarters were struck in San Francisco.
The Bottom Line
Whether you‘re drawn to the Heraldic Eagle‘s last hurrah or the special Bicentennial coins that followed, 1974 quarters are an fascinating piece of U.S. coinage history. By understanding their key varieties, rarities and values, you‘ll be well on your way to building an exceptional collection.
Of course, the most valuable quarters in top condition can be expensive – but there are plenty of affordable options for all budgets. Focus on the series that interest you most and enjoy the thrill of the hunt. With patience and an eye for quality, you‘re sure to discover many treasures among these classic American coins!
