The value of a 1969 25-cent coin (Washington Quarter) can vary significantly depending on several key factors:
- Circulated coins: In worn, circulated condition (grades XF 40 to AU 55), the value may be close to its face value, around $0.25 to $0.85.
- Uncirculated coins: Uncirculated coins in higher grades command higher prices. For instance, a 1969 Denver minted quarter with a mint state grade of MS67 can be valued at $80, while an MS68 can reach $1650. A 1969 quarter without a mint mark (from the Philadelphia Mint) in MS 67 grade can be worth $1,900 to $2,400.
- Proof coins: The San Francisco Mint produced only proof quarters in 1969. Proof coins are specially struck coins with a mirror-like finish. Proof quarters (PR 67 grade) are valued around $10, with higher grades (PR 69) fetching around $15 to $36. Exceptionally high-grade proof quarters (MS 69 DCAM) can be worth up to $575.
- No mint mark (Philadelphia): These are the most common and generally worth face value in circulated condition.
- D mint mark (Denver): These coins have more collectible potential, especially in higher grades or with errors.
- S mint mark (San Francisco): All 1969 S quarters are proof coins and were not released for circulation.
Some 1969 quarters have minting errors that significantly increase their value. These errors include:
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): A doubling effect, typically seen in the lettering, which can increase the value to hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the grade. In 2020, a 1969 DDO quarter in PR 66 grade sold for $316 on eBay.
- Repunched Mintmark (RPM): The mint mark is punched twice, causing offset imprints. A well-preserved RPM coin can fetch high prices, with one selling for $2,640 in 2022.
- Quarter Struck on Wrong Planchet (e.g., penny or nickel): These are rare errors where the quarter is struck on a metal blank meant for another denomination. Such errors can significantly increase the value, potentially reaching $500–$1,000+.
- Clipped Planchet: Part of the coin’s edge is “cut out” due to a misfeed in the coining press, with values typically ranging from $30–$100+.
In summary
While most 1969 quarters in circulated condition are only worth their face value, uncirculated examples, especially those with errors or in high proof grades, can be quite valuable to collectors. The key is to assess the coin’s condition, identify the mint mark, and check for any potential errors. If you believe your 1969 quarter might be rare, it’s always best to consult with a reputable coin appraiser or grading service for a professional evaluation.
What makes a 1969 quarter rare?
The 1969 Washington Quarter was struck Philadelphia, Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The main errors influencing the 1969 Quarter value are DDO, RPM, Mated Error pair, Struck on penny planchet, and struck on nickel planchet. Based on the error and condition, the value of a 1969 quarter can be as high as $2,640.
Is the 1969 quarter made of silver?
Thanks for asking. This is a 1969 US Quarter Dollar featuring the image of George Washington on the obverse side and an Eagle on the reverse side. The coin is made of a copper-nickel composition and has a fineness of 0.9.
Are 1965 to 1969 quarters worth anything?
Thanks for asking. Most 1965 quarters are worth $1 or less, but specimens graded MS67 or higher by a certified coin grader can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars at auction.