A mint mark is a small letter or symbol on a coin that identifies the location where it was struck or produced.
- Identifying the mint of origin: This was initially important to ensure accountability for the quality and metal composition of coins when they contained precious metals like gold and silver.
- Historical Significance: Mint marks connect a coin to its specific place and time of production, which can be valuable for collectors and historians.
- Rarity and Value: Coins from mints with lower production numbers are often rarer and therefore more valuable to collectors.
- Identifying Errors: Some coins may have unique minting errors associated with a particular mint or mint mark, which can also increase their value.
- “P” for Philadelphia: This is the oldest and largest U.S. Mint. Historically, most coins minted in Philadelphia did not have a mint mark, [according to the U.S. Mint] . However, the “P” mint mark was used on wartime nickels from 1942-1945 and on all denominations except the cent since 1980.
- “D” for Denver: Established in 1906, the Denver Mint produces a large number of coins for circulation.
- “S” for San Francisco: Known for producing high-quality proof coins and some circulating coins.
- “W” for West Point: This mint specializes in bullion and commemorative coins and is known for its high quality.
Mint marks are typically small and can be found in various locations on the coin depending on its denomination and year of production. They were generally located on the reverse (tails side) of the coin until 1968, when they moved to the obverse (heads side).
Note: Not all coins have mint marks. Coins minted in Philadelphia before 1979 (with some exceptions like the wartime nickels) generally don’t have one.
How do you tell if a coin has a mint mark?
A mint mark is a small letter (D and S being the most commonly encountered) somewhere on the coin. A mint mark tells you where the coin was made. Many coins also have the designer’s initials hidden somewhere in the design. This is not the mint mark.
Is a coin worth more with no mint mark?
The short answer is sometimes.
Certain coins without mint marks are extremely valuable, but it’s essential to watch out for the coins that were altered or damaged by someone outside the mint. Here are several rare coins without mint marks that hold a much higher value than the original minted face value.
What happens if a coin does not have a mint mark?
I can help with that. Because some coins without mint marks hold value and some do not, it is best to let an experienced coin appraiser take a look at your collection. A professional numismatist like Dave Wnuck will be able to assess your coins and help you determine the value of what you have.
How much is a 1965 quarter no mint mark worth?
1965 Quarter No Mint Mark Value
Currently, circulated 1965 quarters generally fetch up to $0.85. However, pristine mint state examples can command significantly higher prices, with values reaching as high as $5,250. Below is an estimated breakdown of values for mint state 1965 quarters: MS 60: $1.