2 Most Valuable 1967 Quarter Coins: While most 1967 Washington Quarters are worth only face value, certain rare errors and well-preserved coins can be surprisingly valuable. This article explores the history, key features, and potential worth of these quarters, helping collectors identify hidden treasures in their collections.
Historical Context of the 1967 Quarter
In the mid-1960s, the U.S. faced a severe coin shortage as rising silver prices led to widespread hoarding. To combat this, the Coinage Act of 1965 removed silver from quarters, replacing it with a copper-nickel clad composition. Additionally, from 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint omitted mint marks from coins to discourage collectors from targeting specific mints. As a result, all 1967 quarters lack mint marks, making it impossible to distinguish whether they were produced in Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco.
Key Features of the 1967 Quarter
The 1967 Washington Quarter features a left-facing portrait of George Washington on the obverse, accompanied by the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The reverse depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, along with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Physically, the coin weighs 5.67 grams and measures 24.30 millimeters in diameter, with a reeded edge. Its composition consists of outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core.
Grading and Value of 1967 Quarters
The condition of a 1967 quarter greatly influences its value:
- Circulated coins (showing wear) are typically worth only their face value.
- Uncirculated coins (graded MS65 or higher) can fetch up to $6,250 if in pristine condition.
- Special Mint Set (SMS) coins, produced for collectors with a distinctive matte finish, can be worth up to $150 in high grades.
Coins with Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrasts—where the raised design sharply differs from the background—are particularly sought after.
Rare and Valuable Error Coins
Some 1967 quarters contain minting errors that significantly increase their worth:
- Struck on a Nickel Planchet – These coins are smaller, with partial designs visible, and can sell for $130–$160.
- Struck on a Copper Planchet – Recognizable by a reddish-brown hue and missing rim, these are valued between $90 and $150.
- Struck on a Dime Planchet – These dime-sized quarters are rare and worth around $100.
- Off-Center Strikes – If the design is misaligned by 20–30%, the value increases depending on severity.
- Curved Clip Error – Caused by a cutting mistake during production, these can be worth up to $400.
Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins
In 1967, the U.S. Mint replaced traditional proof sets with Special Mint Sets (SMS) due to the coin shortage. These sets included quarters with a unique matte finish and sharper details. Only 1,863,344 SMS sets were produced, making them relatively rare. High-grade SMS quarters, especially those graded MS69, can sell for up to $150.
How to Identify and Sell a Valuable 1967 Quarter
If you suspect your 1967 quarter may be valuable, follow these steps:
- Examine the Coin – Look for errors, unusual colors, or sharp details in Washington’s hair and the eagle’s feathers.
- Check the Weight – A silver planchet error weighs 6.25 grams instead of the standard 5.67 grams.
- Get It Graded – Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and assess its condition.
- Sell Through Trusted Platforms – Consider eBay for broad exposure, Heritage Auctions for rare coins, or local coin shops for quick evaluations.
Final Thoughts
While most 1967 quarters are common, those with errors, high-grade preservation, or SMS origins can be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. If you have one, a careful inspection could reveal a hidden treasure in your collection!