Price Guide for 1972 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: $81.00 – $184.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $3,055.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $1,131.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $1,800.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8.00 – $357.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.25 – $228.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $75.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $1,320.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $700.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $1,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $1,035.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.01 – $75.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5.00 – $12.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $1,380.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.25 – $72.53
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $12.00
Design and Specifications of the 1972 Quarter
The 1972 Quarter continued the Washington Quarter design that had been in use since 1932. This year marked the 40th anniversary of the Washington Quarter series. The coin retained its significance as a widely circulated denomination, playing a crucial role in everyday commerce.
1972 was also notable as it was just one year after the United States had abandoned the silver standard for its coinage, transitioning to the copper-nickel clad composition that remains in use today.
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel clad over copper core |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with outstretched wings, designed by John Flanagan |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1972 Quarters significantly impacts their value, especially for circulation strikes. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are more valuable, with premium prices for those grading MS65 or higher.
For circulation strikes, factors such as sharp strike, full luster, and absence of contact marks are crucial for higher grades. Proof coins are valued based on the depth of mirrored fields, sharpness of design, and absence of imperfections.
Toning can add value if it’s attractive and natural, particularly on proof issues. However, any signs of cleaning or damage can significantly decrease the coin’s value, regardless of its grade.
Mintage: 215,048,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS65, scarcer in higher grades
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, primarily for high-grade examples
Mintage: 311,067,732
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS65, scarcer in higher grades
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, primarily for high-grade examples
Mintage: 3,260,996
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR67, scarcer in higher grades
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, mainly for gem-quality examples
While the 1972 Quarter is generally common, certain factors can enhance its value:
1. High-grade examples: Coins in MS67 or higher for circulation strikes, or PR70 for proofs, can command significant premiums.
2. Full Steps: Quarters with fully defined steps on Monticello (reverse) are highly sought after by collectors.
3. Cameo and Deep Cameo proofs: Proof coins with strong contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields are more valuable.
4. Error coins: While no major varieties are known for 1972, any significant mint errors (e.g., off-center strikes, double dies) could be valuable.
5. Original rolls or sets: Uncirculated coins in original mint rolls or proof coins in original packaging may command a premium.
