1970 US Quarter Worth: A Comprehensive Guide to Value and Collectibility

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The 1970 US quarter is a common coin, but its value can vary depending on its condition and rarity. In mint condition, a 1970 quarter is worth around $0.25.

If you have a 1970 quarter in good condition, it's likely to be worth its face value, but if it's in poor condition, it might be worth a bit more. Some collectors might be willing to pay a premium for a 1970 quarter in excellent condition.

The 1970 quarter is made of 90% silver and 10% copper, which is a standard composition for US coins at the time. This means that a 1970 quarter contains a small amount of silver.

Rarity and Value

The rarity and value of 1970 US quarters can vary greatly depending on their condition and mint mark. A coin without a mint mark, which means it was minted in Philadelphia, is estimated to have around 136,420,000 survivors in MS65 or better condition.

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The value of these coins also depends on their quality, with mint state coins costing between $1 and $375. The most expensive 1970 MS 67+ Washington quarter ever sold was bought for $2,160 in 2019.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated value of 1970 Washington quarters in various mint state grades:

It's worth noting that achieving an MS68 grade or higher for a 1970 Washington Quarter is extremely challenging, as very few examples exist in such exceptional conditions.

S Proof Value

The San Francisco mint was the only one producing proof coins in 1970, and they made a total of 2,632,810 quarters.

A PR 67-graded 1970 S proof quarter can be bought for $7, while a PR 68-graded one costs $8, and a PR 69-graded one costs $14.

The most profitable 1970 S PR 69 quarter was sold in 2003 for $110, but it's worth noting that some proof quarters from this year have even higher prices.

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The value of proof Washington quarters minted in 1970 with cameo contrast is significantly higher, ranging from $15 to $42 for those in grades from PR 67 to PR 69.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated values for 1970 S proof quarters with deep cameo contrast:

  • PR 67 DCAM coins: $54
  • PR 68 DCAM coins: $90
  • PR 69 DCAM coins: $450

These specimens are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, and some have sold for impressive prices, including the $2,760 paid for a DCAM 1970 proof quarter in PR 69 grade.

Washington Silver Dollar

The Washington Silver Dollar is a rare and valuable coin, especially when it comes to mint errors. A 1970 Washington Quarter Struck on Silver Barber Quarter is one of the most famous U.S. Proof Major Mint Errors ever released.

This coin is worth around $75,000, making it a significant find for collectors. The coin's value lies in its rarity, with only two known specimens existing.

The San Francisco Mint is known for producing unique and valuable coins, including the 1970-S Proof Quarter that was over-struck on a Silver Barber Quarter.

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Errors and Variations

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The 1970 US quarter is a treasure trove of error coins, each with its unique story to tell. Some of these errors can make the coin worth a small fortune.

A Doubled Die error, for instance, occurs when the die and hub are misaligned during the hubbing process, resulting in duplicated design elements. This can significantly increase the coin's value.

The FS-101 and FS-102 Doubled Die Obverse errors are two notable examples, with the FS-102 variety selling for $2,875 in 2012. In Gem Uncirculated condition, an FS-101 can fetch $2,500.

Other errors, like the Clipped Planchet, occur when the metal strip used to create the coin blanks overlaps a previously punched area, resulting in clipped or cut edges. Off-center Strikes are also common, where the coin isn't centered correctly during minting.

The 1970-D quarter with a Double Strike and Second Strike 70% Off-Center sold for $1,020 in 2021, making it a rare and valuable find.

Take a look at this: 1970 Us Quarter Value

Mint Mark & Rarity

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The mint mark on a coin can tell you where it was produced. A D indicates the Denver Mint, S is for San Francisco Mint, and P is for Philadelphia. A coin without a mint mark was also minted in Philadelphia.

The 1970 business strikes of Washington quarters don't bear the S Mint Mark, since only proof versions of the series were produced there.

Philadelphia-minted 1970 Washington Quarters total 136,420,000, but only an estimated 1,227,780 have survived in MS65 or better condition.

The Denver issue, with a mintage of 417,341,364, has about 7,512,144 estimated survivors in MS65 or better.

A lower production run can result in fewer surviving examples, which can increase their value among collectors.

The 1970-S proof quarter with a small date is particularly rare, with subtle differences in the date's font making it a coveted item among collectors.

Core Variations and Errors

The 1970 quarter has its fair share of errors and variations that make it a treasure for collectors. Some of these errors include Doubled Die, Clipped Planchet, and Off-center Strikes.

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The Doubled Die error occurs when the coin's imprint is slightly doubled, making certain features appear twice, albeit faintly. This error can be seen in the 1970 quarter, where the doubling is minor or strong.

The 1970 quarter can also be found with Clipped Planchet, where the metal strip used to create the coin blanks overlaps a previously punched area, resulting in clipped or cut edges. This error is often seen in quarters that were not properly aligned during minting.

Off-center Strikes occur when a coin isn't centered correctly during minting, leading to an off-centered imprint. This error can increase the value of the coin depending on its visibility and rarity.

Some 1970 quarters have been found with a combination of errors, such as the 1970-D quarter that was graded MS64 and was "Double Struck – Second Strike 70% Off-Center." This coin sold for $1,020 in 2021.

The value of a coin increases with the degree of off-centering. A 1970-D quarter that was struck on a Lincoln cent planchet sold for $1,260, while one that was struck on a Jefferson nickel planchet cost $216.

The 1970-D quarter that lacks the copper-nickel cladding on the obverse sold for $540, while the 1970-S proof quarter, which was double struck in the coin press collar, sold for $1,175.

Liberty title with depicted profile of man on coin
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A rare 1970 quarter error is the 1970-S Washington quarter that was struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter. This quarter was featured in a Woman's World article in 2016, which brought attention to its potential value.

Some 1970 quarters have a Double Die Reverse, where the doubling occurs on the reverse side. The auction record for an MS63 coin type FS-801 was $2,640 in 2014.

The 1970-D quarter can also have a Double Die Obverse, where the doubling occurs on the obverse side. The auction record for an MS65 FS-102 coin was $2,875 in 2012.

In the open market, a 1970-D quarter with a Double Die Reverse can be worth around $100.

Composition and History

The 1970 US quarter is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, layered over a pure copper core, weighing 5.67 grams.

This composition may not hold much intrinsic value, but it doesn't affect the coin's desirability, which is largely driven by its historical significance and scarcity in high grades.

The 1970 quarter series was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Washington's birthday, and the obverse side was based on Jean-Antoine Houdon's bust of George Washington from 1785.

Does a Coin Contain Silver?

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The 1970 Washington quarter is made of 90% copper and 10% nickel.

The composition of the coin is a key factor in determining whether it contains silver.

A 1970 quarter does not have any silver in it.

The lack of silver is due to the coin's composition of copper and nickel.

The edge of the 1970 Washington quarter is reeded, a feature that is often associated with silver coins.

However, the reeded edge does not necessarily mean the coin contains silver.

The coin's design and mint marks are not directly related to its composition or the presence of silver.

For example, the 1970 Washington quarter has an Art Deco heraldic-styled eagle on its reverse, but this design element does not affect the coin's composition.

Composition

The composition of a coin can greatly impact its value. A higher content of precious metals like silver or gold can increase a coin's melt value beyond its face value.

In 1970, the Washington quarters no longer contained silver. This change affected the coin's composition and value.

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The 1970 Washington Quarter weighs 5.67 grams. It's made up of 75% copper and 25% nickel, layered over a pure copper core.

The copper and nickel composition adds minimal intrinsic value to the coin. This doesn't lessen the coin's overall desirability, which is driven by its historical significance and scarcity in high grades.

History of Washington

The 1970 Washington quarter series was minted to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Washington's birthday.

The US Mint had to follow strict recommendations for the obverse side of the coin, basing it on Jean-Antoine Houdon's bust of George Washington from 1785.

Several quarter varieties have been released with different compositions over the years.

The most significant change occurred in 1964 when pieces of 90% silver were discontinued, and new cupronickel coins appeared.

From 1965, the Washington quarter metal content changed drastically, initially comprising 90% silver, but the precious metal was excluded in 1965.

The US Mint switched to a copper and nickel alloy, and later, the composition became 91.67% copper with a low percentage of nickel, while the coin's core was only copper.

Grading and Pricing

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The grading and pricing of 1970 US quarters can be a bit complex, but it's actually quite straightforward once you understand the basics. The Sheldon grading system is used to determine the value of these coins, with mint state coins being the most valuable.

The value of a 1970 quarter can range from its face value to hundreds of dollars, depending on its condition and rarity. For example, a mint state 1970 quarter can cost anywhere from $1 to $375, with higher grades commanding higher prices.

Here's a rough guide to the pricing of mint state 1970 quarters:

  • MS 60 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 61 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 62 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 63 quarters cost around $10
  • MS 64 quarters cost around $14
  • MS 65 quarters cost around $20
  • MS 66 quarters cost around $65
  • MS 67 quarters cost around $375

Keep in mind that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on the specific coin and its condition.

No Mint Mark Value

The value of a 1970 no mint mark quarter can vary greatly depending on its quality and rarity. These coins are relatively common, with a mintage of 136,420,000 pieces.

They're only 50 years old and don't contain silver, which means their value isn't extremely high. You can find circulated and uncirculated quarters among those minted this year.

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Low-graded pieces are worth only their face value, which is a good thing to keep in mind if you're just starting to collect coins. Most quality pieces are more costly, with some exceptions.

Quarters in the mint state can cost between $1 and $375, depending on their quality and rarity. Here's a breakdown of the estimated values for different grades:

  • MS 60 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 61 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 62 quarters cost around $1
  • MS 63 quarters cost around $10
  • MS 64 quarters cost around $14
  • MS 65 quarters cost around $20
  • MS 66 quarters cost around $65

The most expensive 1970 no mint mark quarter ever sold was an MS 67+ Washington quarter from the regular strike, which was bought for $2,160 in 2019.

Prices for Top Grade

Prices for Top Grade 1970 Quarters can be surprisingly high. The value of a 1970 quarter graded as Mint State (MS) 65 can fetch anywhere from $5 to $10.

However, a 1970-S small date-proof quarter in similar high-grade conditions can cost $100 or more. This is because the rarity and demand of the coin play a significant role in determining its price.

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Coins graded MS66 and above are even more valuable, with prices ranging from $22 to $2,800. The most pricey sold 1970 D quarter was the one graded MS 69, which was auctioned for $15,000 on eBay at the beginning of 2023.

Here's a breakdown of the prices for top-grade 1970 quarters:

As you can see, the price of a 1970 quarter can vary greatly depending on its grade and rarity. If you're looking to buy or sell a top-grade 1970 quarter, it's essential to research and understand the market value of the coin.

Thin

The "Thin" classification is a notable one, particularly when it comes to the 1970 error quarters. These coins were minted in Denver and are characterized by their thin and light appearance.

About 100,000 of these coins were produced before the mint staff caught the mistake. They were accidentally struck over planchets prepared for dimes, which explains their unusual weight and size.

The value of these coins can vary greatly depending on their preservation levels, with prices ranging from $35 to $300.

Buying and Selling

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You can buy or sell regular 1970 quarters for a few dollars on websites like Etsy and eBay.

If you're unsure about the value of your 1970 quarter, you can post an image in a forum for coin collectors to ask for help.

Dealing with reliable, specialized sellers like Heritage Auctions can help you avoid fraud when buying and selling rare 1970 quarters.

Where to Buy/Sell

If you're looking to buy or sell a 1970 quarter, there are a few options to consider. You can find regular 1970 quarters for sale on websites like Etsy and eBay for a few dollars.

If you're unsure about the authenticity or value of your quarter, posting an image in a forum for coin collectors can be a great way to get help and advice from experts.

Where to Sell in Washington

If you're looking to sell your 1970 Washington Quarter in Washington, you can check out the list of online sites mentioned in "Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)" for easy and hassle-free sales.

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The article "Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)" is a great resource for finding reputable online platforms to sell your coins, including those specific to Washington.

You can also visit the website mentioned in the article to find out more about selling your 1970 Washington Quarter online.

The website listed in the article is a great place to start your search for a buyer, and it's easy to use even if you're not tech-savvy.

Stock on Dime

The 1970-D quarter was struck on dime-thick stock, often referred to as "thin quarters."

A 1970 Roosevelt dime weighs 2.27 grams with a diameter of only 17.9 millimeters.

Quarters are significantly larger and heavier than dimes, with a weight of 5.67 grams and a diameter of 24.3 millimeters.

The difference in size and weight led to the creation of "thin quarters" when dime stock was used to create quarter blanks.

A different take: Us Dime Worth

Washington Quarter

The Washington Quarter is a special coin that's been around for a while. It was first minted in 1932 to honor George Washington's 200th birthday.

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The 1970 Washington Quarter is one of many quarters that the US Mint minted to commemorate Presidents of the United States of America. In this case, they honored the 200th anniversary of Washington's birthday.

A unique 1970-S Washington quarter was struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter, making it worth more than 25 cents. This coin is a great example of how some quarters can be worth more than their standard value.

The 1970-S Proof Quarter was over-struck on a Silver Barber Quarter, making it one of the most famous U.S. Proof Major Mint Errors ever released from the San Francisco Mint. It's worth around $75,000.

The composition of the Washington quarter changed drastically over the years, with the most significant change appearing in 1965 when the US Mint switched to copper and nickel alloy. The coin's core was only copper.

You can check the grading guides to know your coin scale, which is the necessary step to know the exact value of your coin.

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Rare and Special

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Collectors appreciate error coins the most, and the 1970 quarter is no exception. They are rare and represent uniqueness, making them highly sought after.

The 1970 quarter error coins are particularly valuable due to their rarity.

The Rarest Coin

Collectors appreciate error coins the most, and the 1970-S proof quarter with a small date is a prime example of this phenomenon.

This quarter stands out for its rarity, with a limited number minted, making it particularly coveted by collectors. These quarters can command prices ranging from $10 to $100 or more, depending on their condition.

The small date variety showcases subtle differences in the date's font, with the "7" sitting slightly lower than other numbers and the tail of the "9" in the date being more pronounced.

Some 1970 quarters are worth more than their standard value, with the 1970-S Washington quarter that was struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter being a notable example.

Double Die Reverse FS-801/802 25C

Round Silver-colored Liberty Coin
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The Double Die Reverse FS-801/802 25C is a rare and special variety of the 1970-D quarter. It's called a DDR because the doubling occurs on the reverse side.

Minor doubling is seen in the denomination QUARTER DOLLAR and the lower leaves over the olive branch on the FS-801. Doubling is seen on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and QUARTER DOLLAR on the FS-802.

The auction record for an MS63 coin type FS-801 was $2,640 in 2014 at Great Collections. This is a significant price for a coin that can be worth around $100 in the open market.

For its FS-802 counterpart, the auction record for an MS66 coin was $1,540 in 2014, also at Great Collections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a 1970 quarter worth $35000 today?

A 1970 quarter is worth $35,000 due to a rare error where it was printed over a 1941 Canadian quarter, making it a unique misprint. This error, visible under good lighting, has made it a highly valuable collector's item.

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg

Senior Writer

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he has established himself as a versatile and reliable voice in the industry. His writing portfolio showcases a breadth of expertise, with a particular focus on the freight market trends.

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