The 1966 Washington quarter still often raises questions among collectors and beginners. While most examples can be especially valuable. The reason lies in how and when they were made.
After 1964, the U.S. Mint stopped using silver in quarters and switched to a copper-nickel alloy. In 1966, mint marks were also removed to discourage hoarding. These small changes make the 1966 quarter an important part of U.S. coin history, so today we discuss minting nuances and 1966 quarter value.
Overview of the Quarter
The 1966 quarter is part of the Washington series that began in 1932. It was struck only in Philadelphia and had no mint mark. Two versions of coins were issued: a regular circulation coin and a Special Mint Set (SMS) coins specially for collectors.
The design by John Flanagan shows George Washington on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Although it looks similar to earlier silver coins, it contains no silver at all.
1966 Quarter Specifications
Feature | Details |
Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
Weight | 5.67 g |
Diameter | 24.3 mm |
Edge | Reeded |
Designer | John Flanagan |
Mint Marks | None |
Special Version | Special Mint Set (SMS) |
The SMS version has a cleaner, shinier surface and sharper details than regular coins. These were sold directly to collectors in sealed plastic holders. An SMS coin will have smooth reflective fields and no signs of wear from circulation, while regular pieces usually show dull areas or scratches.
Market Value — What the 1966 Quarter Is Worth Today
Most 1966 quarters are still worth only 25 cents. However, high-grade uncirculated and SMS examples can reach notable prices. The better the condition, the higher the value.
1966 Quarter Value by Type and Condition
Type | Approx. Value |
Circulated | $0.25–$1 |
Uncirculated (MS60–MS64) | $2–$10 |
High Grade (MS65–MS67) | $20–$150 |
Special Mint Set (SMS) | $25–$50 |
SMS (MS67–MS68) | $150–$500 |
Major Error Coins | $100–$2,000+ |
Even without silver, certain SMS coins and verified errors can sell for hundreds. A few SMS pieces in MS68 grade have brought several thousand dollars due to perfect surfaces and full luster.
Valuable Errors and Varieties
Error coins from 1966 are rare, so they attract the attention of collectors. Some of the error pieces were found and confirmed by some grading services.
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Doubling appears on “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST”. Clear examples can sell from $100 to $600+.
Off-Center Strike: The design is noticeably misaligned. The greater the shift, the more it’s worth — from $200 up to $2,500 for major errors.
Tip: True mint errors are raised and well-defined. Scratches, dents, or marks from handling are not valuable.
How to Tell Regular from SMS Quarters
Many collectors mistake bright circulation coins for Special Mint Set (SMS) versions, especially if the pieces look clean or shiny. However, SMS quarters were made differently and have some points that set them apart. These coins were struck using specially prepared dies and planchets, resulted a higher-quality surface and sharper strike.
SMS coins show:
Even, mirror-like surfaces with no contact marks or wear.
Sharper lettering, rim, and edge details than normal quarters.
Slightly satin or proof-style finish under light.
Usually found only in official 1966 Special Mint Sets sold by the Mint.
These sets were packaged directly for collectors and never placed into general circulation. Because of this, SMS coins are typically better preserved, with no scratches or dull spots caused by handling. Regular quarters, on the other hand, often show tiny marks, dull gray tone, or uneven shine due to years of use.
How to Examine and Store Your 1966 Quarters
Once you know what to look for, you need to handle your coins carefully — even a small scratch or fingerprint can lower value permanently.
Basic steps:
Weigh the coin. The standard weight is 5.67 grams. A noticeable difference may mean an error, wrong planchet, or surface plating.
Inspect under magnification. Use a 5x or 10x loupe to check for doubling, cracks, or small raised spots that might indicate a die flaw.
Handle by the edges only. Hold coins over a soft surface and avoid direct contact with fingers to prevent oil transfer.
Do not clean. Cleaning removes the original surface and makes the coin less desirable to collectors.
Label each coin by year, type, and grade for easy organization.
Best storage conditions:
Humidity: Keep below 50% to avoid oxidation or spotting on the coin’s surface.
Temperature: Maintain a stable room temperature; avoid sudden changes, heat, or cold.
Storage: Use acid-free holders or airtight capsules, and keep them inside a dry container or coin safe for long-term preservation.
Remember, you don’t need expensive tools to inspect your quarters. A simple digital scale, magnifier, and soft desk lamp and a reliable app like Coin ID Scanner are enough to study details, confirm authenticity, and monitor condition over time.
FAQ
Is the 1966 quarter silver?
No. The 1966 quarter is made of a copper-nickel clad composition — a copper core sandwiched between two nickel layers. It contains 0% silver, weighing 5.67 grams. Many people confuse its shine with silver, but that’s only due to the nickel surface.
Where was it minted?
All 1966 quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, thus none have a mint mark. The Mint temporarily removed mint marks between 1965 and 1967 to discourage collectors from hoarding coins during a national coin shortage.
What is an SMS coin?
A Special Mint Set (SMS) coin is a higher-quality strike produced specifically for collectors. These coins were not released for circulation but sold directly by the Mint in sets. They have smoother surfaces, sharper details, and a semi-proof or satin finish that reflects light evenly.
Are there any rare 1966 quarters?
Yes, though very few. The rarest are high-grade SMS coins with nearly perfect surfaces and verified mint errors, e.g., doubled dies or off-center strikes. These examples can sell for hundreds or more depending on certification and eye appeal.
Can valuable ones still appear in circulation?
Almost never. Most 1966 quarters have been heavily circulated, and collectible pieces were preserved decades ago. However, clean, uncirculated examples occasionally turn up in old coin jars, inherited collections, or unsorted rolls from banks.
How can I check if mine is worth grading?
Examine the coin under good light. Look for:
No wear on high points like Washington’s hair and the eagle’s wings.
Strong luster and natural color without scratches or dullness.
Possible doubling or striking flaws under magnification.
If your coin meets these conditions, professional certification may confirm its grade and value accurately.
Realistic Market Perspective
The 1966 quarter is not a rare coin, but it marks an important stage in U.S. Mint history. It represents the move from silver to modern copper-nickel coinage. While circulation pieces remain common, the Special Mint Set versions and a few verified errors hold collector interest.
Market prices for top-grade SMS coins continue to rise slowly. However, most regular quarters have minimal value above face amount. Collectors appreciate them more for their history than for profit.
And even if you don’t find a rare one, continue to explore coins like the 1966 quarter to develop attention to detail and build experience. If you’re ever unsure about a coin’s type or background, try the Coin ID Scanner app that helps you keep accurate records and manage your growing collection effectively.