Intro
Discover the fascinating history of the 1967 US quarter, a unique coin with a special minting process. Learn about its composition, design, and mintage, as well as its collectibility and value. Uncover the story behind this iconic quarter, including its connection to the Great Society programs and the Coinage Act of 1965.
The 1967 US quarter is a fascinating coin that has captivated collectors and historians alike. As a key part of American numismatic history, this quarter is more than just a simple coin - it's a window into the past. In this article, we'll delve into five fascinating facts about the 1967 US quarter, exploring its design, production, and cultural significance.
Fact #1: The 1967 Quarter's Design
The 1967 quarter's design is a nod to the past, featuring the iconic Washington quarter design that was first introduced in 1932. The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States, while the reverse (back) showcases an eagle perched on a bundle of arrows, surrounded by olive branches. This design was created by sculptor John Flanagan and has undergone several modifications over the years.
Design Evolution
Interestingly, the 1967 quarter's design was part of a larger effort to standardize US coinage. In the early 20th century, the US Mint began phasing out the Barber quarter design, which had been in circulation since 1892. The Washington quarter design was chosen as a replacement, and it has remained largely unchanged to this day.
Fact #2: Production and Mintage
The 1967 quarter was produced in large quantities, with over 1.3 billion coins minted across the Philadelphia and Denver mints. This makes the 1967 quarter one of the most widely circulated coins in US history.
Mint Marks
One way to distinguish between the Philadelphia and Denver mints is to look for the mint mark on the coin. The Philadelphia mint did not use a mint mark, while the Denver mint used a "D" mint mark. This makes the 1967-D quarter a slightly more valuable and sought-after coin among collectors.
Fact #3: Composition and Specifications
The 1967 quarter is composed of a copper-clad nickel alloy, which was introduced in 1965 as part of a broader effort to reduce the cost of producing US coins. The coin weighs 5.67 grams and measures 24.3 mm in diameter.
Edge and Rim
The 1967 quarter features a reeded edge, which is characterized by a series of grooves that run along the coin's edge. The rim is plain, with no decorative elements or markings.
Fact #4: Cultural Significance
The 1967 quarter is often associated with the tumultuous 1960s, a decade marked by social change, cultural upheaval, and economic uncertainty. As a widely circulated coin, the 1967 quarter played a small but significant role in everyday American life.
Nostalgia and Collectibility
For many collectors, the 1967 quarter is a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. Its widespread availability and relatively low value make it an accessible coin for new collectors, while its historical significance and cultural importance make it a prized addition to any serious collection.
Fact #5: Error Coins and Variations
As with any mass-produced coin, errors and variations can occur. One notable example is the 1967 quarter with a misprinted mint mark, which is highly sought after by collectors.
Die Variations
Die variations, such as the famous " Doubled Die" error, can also occur. These variations are caused by imperfections in the minting process and can result in unique and highly collectible coins.
1967 US Quarter Image Gallery
As we've explored in this article, the 1967 US quarter is a fascinating coin with a rich history and cultural significance. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this coin is sure to captivate and inspire. So, what's your favorite fact about the 1967 US quarter? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!