Price Guide for 1997 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 PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $3,525.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $149.90
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $3,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $978.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.25 – $154.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $1,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $495.00
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eBayCirculated: $18.50Uncirculated: $0.99 – $178.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $32.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.00 – $719.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $55.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5.00 – $35.00
Design and Specifications of the 1997 Quarter
The 1997 Quarter continues the long-standing Washington Quarter design, first introduced in 1932. This year marked the 65th anniversary of the Washington Quarter, which had become a staple of American coinage. The design remained unchanged since its inception, showcasing the stability and continuity in U.S. coin designs before the introduction of the State Quarters program in 1999.
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.26 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 | American Bald Eagle, designed by John Flanagan |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1997 Quarters. While circulated examples are abundant and hold little premium over face value, uncirculated specimens in high grades (MS65 and above) can command significant premiums. The value increases exponentially for coins in gem condition (MS67 and above) due to their scarcity.
For proof coins, the difference between a PR69 and a PR70 can be substantial, as perfect PR70 specimens are considerably rarer. Cameo and Deep Cameo designations can also add to the value of proof coins.
Mintage: 707,800,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 862,400,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 2,794,501
Rarity Scale: Common for proof issues
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, collected by proof set enthusiasts
Strike quality is particularly important for 1997 Quarters. Well-struck coins with full details, especially on the hair and eagle feathers, are more desirable. Luster also plays a significant role, with coins exhibiting strong, cartwheel luster being more valuable.
While not typically known for attractive toning, quarters with exceptional, natural toning can command premiums among collectors who appreciate colorful coins. Additionally, error coins, such as off-center strikes or double dies, though rare for this year, can be valuable if discovered.
