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The 1966 Washington Quarter is often seen as a standard piece of U.S. currency, but certain rare error coins have surfaced, capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts.
While most 1966 quarters are valued at face value, a select few have been identified with unique errors that significantly increase their worth.
Could your 1966 Washington Quarter be worth as much as $20,000,000? Let’s dive into the details of this rare coin and explore what makes it so valuable.
Key Features of the 1966 Washington Quarter
The 1966 Washington Quarter is widely recognized for its distinct design and historical significance. Here are its defining characteristics:
- Mintage: Over 821 million quarters minted in Philadelphia.
- Composition: Made from 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel (clad).
- Design: The obverse features President George Washington, while the reverse displays two stalks of wheat, symbolizing America’s agricultural roots.
- Mint Mark: The 1966 quarter has no mint mark, as all of them were minted in Philadelphia.
The Enigma of the $20,000,000 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The $20,000,000 Washington Quarter is part of a small group of extremely rare coins that have become legendary among collectors. Rumors have circulated for decades about a 1966 Washington Quarter with a unique minting error that sets it apart from the rest.
While most of these quarters are relatively common, a few specific errors can significantly raise their value.
The $20 million price tag is primarily tied to the coin’s rarity, condition, and the unique error it carries. Minting errors, such as double dies, off-center strikes, or planchet issues, contribute to a coin’s higher value, making it a rare find for collectors.
Key Error Types That Increase the Value of a 1966 Washington Quarter
1. Double Die Reverse (DDR)
- Description: A Double Die Reverse (DDR) occurs when the reverse die used to strike the coin is misaligned, causing a doubling effect. This can result in doubled letters and other features on the coin’s design.
- Value: Depending on the visibility of the doubling, these coins can fetch anywhere between $200 to $2,000.
2. Rim Errors
- Description: Rim errors occur when the edge of the coin is misstruck, leading to raised or irregular rims. These errors can vary in severity and prominence.
- Value: Rim error coins can range in value from $100 to $1,000, depending on the size and visibility of the error.
3. Off-Center Strikes
- Description: An off-center strike happens when the coin die does not properly align with the planchet, resulting in an off-center image.
- Value: Off-center strikes can be worth between $50 to $500 depending on how far the design is shifted.
Valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny Examples
Here are some valuable examples of 1966 Washington Quarters that have garnered significant attention due to their unique errors:
| Coin | Minting Error | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Double Die Reverse (DDR) | Double die on reverse side | $200 – $2,000 |
| Rim Error | Raised or irregular rim | $100 – $1,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | Design misaligned | $50 – $500 |
| Clipped Planchet | Missing portion of coin | $100 – $1,500 |
These errors are rare and not commonly found in circulation, making them incredibly valuable when discovered in old rolls or in a collection.
How to Identify Valuable 1966 Quarters
If you think you might have a valuable 1966 Washington Quarter on your hands, here are some tips to help you identify it:
- Examine the Mint Mark: All 1966 Washington Quarters lack a mint mark, as they were produced in Philadelphia.
- Look for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling, off-center strikes, or rim abnormalities.
- Check the Condition: Coins in better condition, often graded as MS65 or higher, are worth more. A high-grade coin in mint condition can fetch significantly more at auction.
- Consult a Price Guide: Use coin price guides and auction records to compare your coin’s value against similar examples.
How Much Is Your 1966 Quarter Worth?
The value of a 1966 Washington Quarter depends heavily on its condition and whether it contains any minting errors. Here’s an overview of how much your coin could be worth:
| Coin Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS65 (Mint State) | $50 – $1,000 |
| MS68+ (Highest Grade) | Up to $21,000 |
| Error Coin (DDR) | $200 – $2,000 |
| Rim Error | $100 – $1,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | $50 – $500 |
As shown, coins in pristine condition or those with minting errors can be worth much more than face value.
Where Can You Sell Your Valuable 1966 Washington Quarter?
Once you’ve identified that your 1966 Washington Quarter is rare, here are some options for selling it:
- Coin Dealers: Visit reputable coin dealers who specialize in rare coins.
- Online Auctions: Websites like eBay allow you to sell your coin to a global audience.
- Coin Shows: Attend local coin shows where dealers and collectors gather to buy and sell coins.
- Auction Houses: Consider consigning your coin to an auction house that specializes in high-value numismatic items.
While most 1966 Washington Quarters are worth only their face value, certain rare errors make a select few highly valuable, potentially worth as much as $20 million. If you’re a coin collector, carefully examine your 1966 quarters for minting errors like double die reverses, rim abnormalities, and off-center strikes.
The combination of rarity, condition, and error type can significantly increase the coin’s value, making it a prized possession for any numismatist.
If you’re lucky enough to find a rare 1966 Washington Quarter, it could be more than just a coin—it could be a financial treasure. Happy collecting!
FAQs
How can I identify a rare 1966 Washington Quarter?
Look for minting errors such as double die reverses, rim errors, or off-center strikes. Use a magnifying glass to inspect the coin for these anomalies.
What is the value of a 1966 Washington Quarter with a minting error?
A 1966 Washington Quarter with a minting error could be worth anywhere from $200 to $2,000, depending on the severity of the error.
How can I sell my valuable 1966 Washington Quarter?
You can sell your coin through coin dealers, online auctions, coin shows, or auction houses that specialize in rare coins.