Rare 1971 Quarter Coin Value Soars To $3,840 | What Makes It So Valuable?

Are you curious about the 1971 Washington quarter? Do you wonder whether your coin is worth any money?

The 1971 Washington quarter holds a special place in the hearts of many coin enthusiasts. Its value can change dramatically depending on its physical state and grading level.

This article will walk you through the history, key features, and unique errors associated with the 1971 quarter that could make it worth significantly more than its face value.

Let’s get started!

1971 Quarter Value Chart

Mint Mark	Good	Fine	Extremely Fine	Uncirculated
1971 (No Mint Mark)	$0.30	$0.30	$0.30	$1,250
1971-D	$0.30	$0.30	$0.30	$1,100
1971-S (Proof)	–	–	–	$7,574

1971 Quarter Value Guides

We’ll now explore each version of the 1971 Washington quarter to better understand what might affect their market value:

1971 No-Mint Mark Quarter

1971-D Quarter

1971-S Proof Quarter

1971 No-Mint Mark Quarter Value

Philadelphia’s Mint struck about 109 million of these quarters in 1971. Due to the high production volume, they remain quite common, and many still circulate today.

However, Philadelphia coins from that year were often not struck very well, so locating one in pristine condition can be tricky. Those that have seen circulation usually range in value from about $0.30 to $0.85.

Uncirculated examples graded MS63 tend to sell for roughly $8, while higher grades like MS65 may bring $10. The finest known version, in MS67, has reached sales as high as $3,840.

1971-D Quarter Value

The Denver Mint had the highest output in 1971, with over 250 million quarters produced. Coins from this mint are usually sharper in detail compared to those from Philadelphia.

Typical circulated coins sell for anywhere between $0.30 and $0.85. In mint condition at grade MS63, they might fetch $8. Ultra-high-grade specimens, like those rated MS68, have sold for as much as $4,560 at auction.

1971-S Proof Quarter Value

Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint were created with extra care, totaling approximately 3.2 million units in 1971. These coins are noted for their crisp detail and mirror-like finish.

Their market value is based on both grade and cameo contrast. Basic PR60 proof coins usually sell for about $2.30, while the rare Deep Cameo versions can exceed $7,000.

One PR70 example with a rich red-brown hue went for $4,000 in 2023, and a PR69 Deep Cameo reached a final price of $7,574.

1971 Quarter Errors

Although most 1971 quarters are standard, a few error types from the minting process have become valuable collectibles, with some fetching hundreds or thousands of dollars.

1971 Doubled Die Reverse

This error arises when the die used to strike the coin misaligns, resulting in a noticeable doubling. You might see this on the date or the inscription “LIBERTY.” These can bring anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on how visible the doubling is.

1971 Broad Struck Error

This type of error occurs when a coin is struck outside its proper collar, causing it to be slightly wider than usual. Well-centered examples with complete designs have sold for as much as $400.

1971 Clipped Planchet Error

Coins with this defect appear as though a piece has been “bitten” off the edge. Signs to look for include a curved missing section, distortion across the rim, and stretched design details. These error coins often sell for $10 to $100, especially if the date is still clearly visible.

History Of The 1971 Quarter

The Washington quarter made its debut in 1932 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Although it was originally meant to be a limited-time commemorative issue, it permanently replaced the Standing Liberty quarter.

John Flanagan designed the coin’s obverse, inspired by a bust of Washington sculpted by Jean-Antoine Houdon. By 1971, quarters were made from a copper-nickel mix rather than silver, a change implemented in 1965.

Over 371 million quarters were struck in 1971 across Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, making them relatively easy to find.

How To Identify 1971 Quarter?

Recognizing key features of your 1971 quarter can help determine its worth and origin.

Obverse Design

The front of the coin features a profile of George Washington facing left. Along with the portrait, you’ll find:

• “LIBERTY” inscribed at the top
• “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the left side
• The year “1971” at the bottom

Reverse Design

On the back, the coin displays an eagle with its wings outstretched, clutching a bundle of arrows, with two olive branches below. Above the eagle is “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” while the outer rim reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”

Other Features Of The 1971 Quarter

These coins are made with an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel over a pure copper center. They weigh about 5.67 grams and measure 24.30 mm across, with a reeded edge.

The “D” mintmark appears only on Denver-minted coins and can be found on the obverse, just next to Washington’s ponytail. Coins from Philadelphia and San Francisco lack this mintmark.

Where Is The Mint Mark On A 1971 Washington Quarter?

Only coins produced in Denver carry a mintmark. You can locate the small letter “D” on the front side of the coin near the tie in Washington’s hair.

Does The 1971 Quarter Have Silver?

No, it does not. The U.S. Mint removed silver from circulating quarters after 1964. All quarters minted in 1971 are composed of a copper-nickel blend and contain no silver.

Why Are 1971 Quarters Rare?

In general, most 1971 quarters aren’t considered rare due to the large quantities produced. However, a few select specimens with striking errors or in exceptional condition can be quite collectible and much more valuable than the usual 25 cents.

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