Price Guide for 1961 Quarter Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $21.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $24,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $19.99 – $36.00Uncirculated: $4.50 – $3,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $9.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $16,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1.00 – $414.00
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eBayCirculated: $22.50 – $26.00Uncirculated: $0.99 – $798.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $900.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $9,775.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.59Uncirculated: $2.05 – $2,374.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $9.00Uncirculated: $9.00 – $9,400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $59.00 – $180.00
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eBayUncirculated: $10.50 – $95.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $35.00Uncirculated: $40.00 – $250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $92.00 – $384.00
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eBayUncirculated: $44.00 – $298.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20.00 – $700.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $41.00 – $8,518.75
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eBayUncirculated: $15.50 – $375.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $9.00 – $26.00Uncirculated: $27.00 – $9,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $50.00 – $499.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $35.00Uncirculated: $40.00 – $1,150.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.02 – $253.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $247.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $11.00 – $80.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $11.00 – $1,265.00
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eBayUncirculated: $17.16 – $769.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $14.00 – $625.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $84.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $25.00 – $450.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $576.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $26.00 – $600.00
Design and Specifications of the 1961 Quarter
The 1961 Quarter continued the Washington Quarter design that was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. This year marked the penultimate issue of 90% silver quarters before the change to copper-nickel clad composition in 1965.
| Weight | 6.25 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, P (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with wings spread, designed by John Flanagan |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1961 Quarters. While circulated examples are common and often valued primarily for their silver content, uncirculated coins in high grades (MS65 and above) can command significant premiums. For circulation strikes, coins with full mint luster, sharp strike details, and minimal contact marks are highly sought after.
Proof coins are generally more valuable, with cameo and deep cameo contrast between the frosted devices and mirrored fields being particularly desirable. The preservation of original surfaces without spotting or toning is crucial for maximum value in proof issues.
Mintage: 69,030,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Uncommon in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, primarily for silver content and high-grade examples
Mintage: 83,656,928
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Uncommon in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, primarily for silver content and high-grade examples
Mintage: 3,028,244
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades PR65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular among proof set collectors
Several factors can influence the value of 1961 Quarters beyond mintage and condition:
1. Silver content: As 90% silver coins, their intrinsic metal value provides a baseline worth.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details, especially on the hair and eagle feathers, are more valuable.
3. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value, particularly for proof issues.
4. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting die cracks or clashing can appeal to specialists.
5. Provenance: Coins with a notable history or from famous collections may command a premium.
While not typically considered a key date, high-grade examples of 1961 Quarters, especially those with exceptional eye appeal, can be quite valuable to collectors focusing on quality.
