Price Guide for 1986 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: $28.00 – $29.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $2,880.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $750.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $3,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $881.25
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eBayUncirculated: $1.36 – $900.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $3,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $552.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.90 – $100.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5.00 – $34.00
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eBayUncirculated: $5.75 – $17.51
Design and Specifications of the 1986 Quarter
The 1986 Quarter continues the Washington Quarter design, which was first introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. By 1986, this coin had become a staple of American currency, featuring the first president’s portrait on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse.
This year marked the 54th year of the Washington Quarter’s production, demonstrating its enduring popularity and utility in everyday commerce.
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel clad over a pure 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 1986 Quarters significantly impacts their value, especially for circulation strikes. While these coins are common in circulated grades, uncirculated examples in MS65 or higher are considerably scarcer and more valuable.
For proof coins, the preservation of mirrored surfaces and cameo contrast is crucial. Coins with deep cameo contrast command a premium, especially in grades PR68 and above.
Mintage: 551,847,597
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 504,298,660
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 3,010,497
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in most proof grades, but scarce in perfect (PR70) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, collected by proof set enthusiasts
Strike quality is an important factor for 1986 Quarters. Well-struck coins with full detail on the high points, particularly on Washington’s hair and the eagle’s feathers, are more desirable.
Luster plays a significant role in determining the value of uncirculated coins. Specimens with bright, cartwheel luster are preferred by collectors.
While not typically known for toning, some 1986 Quarters may have developed attractive toning over time, which can enhance their appeal to certain collectors. However, any signs of cleaning or artificial toning can significantly decrease a coin’s value.
