The value of a 1965 coin (specifically a quarter) depends on several factors, including its condition, any mint errors it may have, and whether it’s a rare silver variety.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Circulated Condition: Most 1965 quarters in circulated condition are worth their face value, or around $0.25.
- Excellent Condition (Mint State): Uncirculated or mint state 1965 quarters can be worth significantly more, with values ranging from $1 up to $5,250 depending on the specific grade on the Sheldon Scale (a 1-70 grading scale where higher numbers indicate better condition). For example:
– MS 60 (lowest uncirculated grade): $1.
– MS 65 (gem uncirculated): $10.
– MS 68 (finest known condition): $5,250.
- Error Coins: Some 1965 quarters were struck with minting errors, making them highly collectible and valuable:
– Silver Planchet Error: Some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover 1964 silver planchets (90% silver instead of copper-nickel clad). These are highly sought after by collectors and can be worth thousands, with one MS62 example selling for $16,800.
– Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): This error shows doubling in the lettering on the obverse side of the coin, like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. Values range from $360 to $2,300 depending on the severity of the doubling.
– Off-Center Strike: If the coin was not properly seated during striking, the design will be off-center. Values range from $100 to $500+, depending on how far off-center it is.
– Wrong Planchet: Some 1965 quarters were accidentally struck on planchets intended for other denominations, like dimes or pennies. These are rare errors and can be quite valuable. For example, a 1965 quarter struck on a silver dime blank in Mint State condition can sell for over $7,000.
– Double Tail: This is a very rare error where the reverse side of the coin is struck on both sides. Only three such coins are known to exist, with two selling for $41,000 and $80,000.
Important Notes:
- No Mint Mark: 1965 quarters do not have a mint mark, as the U.S. Mint omitted them that year.
- Authentication and Grading: If you believe you have a valuable 1965 coin, especially an error or silver variety, it’s recommended to have it professionally graded and authenticated by a reputable service like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS. This can significantly impact the value and buyer confidence.
- Determining Silver Content: You can check if a 1965 quarter is silver by checking its weight (silver quarters weigh ~6.25 grams vs. ~5.67 for clad) and its edge (silver quarters have a completely silver edge with no visible copper line). Silver coins are also not attracted to magnets.
