If you’ve found a 1966 quarter in your change, you might be wondering what it’s worth. If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Found a 1966 quarter in your spare change and curious if it’s worth more than 25 cents? You’re in the right spot.
We’ll explore the value of the 1966 quarter, learn about its background, and highlight rare errors that can make these coins quite valuable.
Let’s dive in and uncover what makes some 1966 quarters more special than others!
1966 Quarter Value Chart
| Mintmark or Variety | XF45 | MS63/SP63 | MS65/SP65 | MS67/SP67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 (P) No Mint Mark | $0.25 | $1 | $14 | $275 |
| 1966 (S) Special Mint Set | $0.25 | $10 (Cameo: $16, Deep Cameo: $32) | $14 (Cameo: $32, Deep Cameo: $165) | $26 (Cameo: $85, Deep Cameo: $2,650) |
1966 Quarter Value Guides
1966 (P) No Mint Mark Quarter Value
All regular 1966 quarters were produced in Philadelphia, and none have a mint mark. Over 821 million were struck, making them very common today. Because of that, most are only worth their face value unless they are in outstanding condition.
Coins in pristine “mint state” condition, graded from MS60 to MS70, can be worth significantly more. For instance:
- MS63: About $1
- MS65: Around $14
- MS67: Up to $275
One exceptional MS68+ quarter is estimated at $17,500, although it hasn’t sold. The highest sale to date was $11,750 for an MS68 coin in 2019.
1966 (S) Special Mint Set Quarter Value
Instead of proof coins, the San Francisco Mint created over 2.26 million Special Mint Set (SMS) quarters in 1966. These weren’t polished like proofs and sometimes touched each other during packaging, but they were made for collectors.
SMS coins use the SP (specimen) grading label. Some are labeled “Cameo” or “Deep Cameo,” depending on the contrast between the shiny background and frosted design:
- SP63 without designation: $10
- SP67 without designation: $26
- SP63 Cameo: $16 | SP67 Cameo: $85
- SP63 Deep Cameo: $32 | SP67 Deep Cameo: $2,650
The record price for a Cameo 1966 quarter was $4,113 (SP68) in 2014, while the top Deep Cameo example (SP68) is valued at around $6,250.
1966 Quarter Errors
Double Die Reverse
This error happens when the die used to make the coin shifts between impressions, causing a “doubled” image. In 1966 quarters, doubling often shows in the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” especially the “T”s.
- XF45 example: Approx. $900
- Very Fine examples: Can sell for around $140
Foreign Object Strikes
One unique quarter from 1966 had a horseshoe-shaped piece of metal embedded in it. Graded MS64, it sold for over $600 due to its unusual nature.
Off-Center Strikes
Coins struck off-center are collector favorites. One 1966 quarter struck 30% off-center with a 60% indent sold for over $800 at auction (graded MS64).
History Of The 1966 Quarter
The 1966 quarter belongs to the Washington series, first issued in 1932 to honor George Washington’s 200th birthday. Initially made from 90% silver, the composition changed in 1965 due to rising silver prices and coin hoarding. The new version had a copper core with a copper-nickel outer layer.
Due to these changes:
- No mint marks were used in 1966.
- The design was slightly altered to suit the new metal mix.
- Quarters dated 1966 weren’t struck until August of that year.
How To Identify 1966 Quarter
Obverse (Front)
George Washington faces left, based on a sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon. Designed by John Flanagan, the coin features:
- “LIBERTY” at the top
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” near Washington’s neck
- The date at the bottom
- No mint mark on any 1966 quarter
Reverse (Back)
Designed by Flanagan as well, the reverse shows an eagle with spread wings standing on arrows above olive branches—symbolizing strength and peace. The inscriptions include:
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the top
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above the eagle’s head
- “QUARTER DOLLAR” along the bottom
Earlier quarters had slight differences in the design depending on whether they were proofs or not, but by 1966 all coins shared the same reverse design.
Other Features Of The 1966 Quarter
- Diameter: 24.3 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Edge: Reeded (grooved)
These specs were introduced in 1965 with the move to copper-nickel coins and continue to this day.
FAQ
How Do I Know If My 1966 Quarter Is Valuable?
Unless it’s in excellent condition or has a rare error, most 1966 quarters are worth only 25 cents. Look for sharp design details and minimal wear. Error coins—like double die or off-center strikes—can be worth much more.
Where’s The Mint Mark On A 1966 Quarter?
There isn’t one! All quarters from 1965 to 1967 were made without mint marks, regardless of where they were struck.