Is there anything special about a 1967 quarter? This question often piques the interest of coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike. The year 1967 holds a unique significance in the history of American coinage, and the quarter dollar of that year is no exception. Let’s delve into the special features and historical context of this iconic coin.
The 1967 quarter dollar, also known as the Washington quarter, was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. This coin is a part of the United States Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, which began in 1999 and continued until 2008. The program aimed to honor each state with a unique quarter design, showcasing the state’s history, symbols, and landmarks.
The 1967 quarter features a portrait of George Washington on the obverse side, designed by John Flanagan. This image has been a staple on the quarter dollar since 1932. The reverse side of the coin, however, showcases a different design for the 1967 issue. It depicts the Great Seal of the United States, which is a symbol of the nation’s sovereignty and authority.
One of the most special aspects of the 1967 quarter is its mintage figures. In comparison to other quarters released during the 50 State Quarters Program, the 1967 quarter has one of the lowest mintages. This scarcity makes it a highly sought-after coin among collectors. The 1967 quarter was minted in three different locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. The Philadelphia mint produced 2,818,000 coins, while the Denver mint produced 1,518,000 coins. The San Francisco mint, however, produced only 3,670,000 coins, making it the rarest of the three.
Another intriguing aspect of the 1967 quarter is its composition. Unlike most modern quarters, which are made of a copper-nickel alloy, the 1967 quarter is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This silver content makes it valuable to collectors and investors alike. The silver content of the coin can be determined by its weight and the current market value of silver.
The 1967 quarter also has a unique connection to the Kennedy half-dollar. In 1964, the United States Mint released the Kennedy half-dollar to honor President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The obverse side of the Kennedy half-dollar features a profile of Kennedy, which was also used on the reverse side of the 1967 quarter. This connection between the two coins adds to the historical significance of the 1967 quarter.
In conclusion, the 1967 quarter is indeed special for several reasons. Its low mintage, silver composition, and historical connection to the Kennedy half-dollar make it a highly sought-after coin among collectors. The 1967 quarter serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of the United States, and its unique features continue to captivate the interest of coin enthusiasts worldwide.
