Rare 1971 Quarter Coin Value Soars To $3,840 | What Makes It So Valuable?

Are you curious about the 1971 Washington quarter? Do you wonder whether your coin is worth any money?

The 1971 Washington quarter is a popular piece among numismatists. Its value varies significantly based on its overall condition, grade, and rarity, especially if it includes any unusual errors. Some coins may only be worth face value, while others can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on their uniqueness and preservation.

The 1971 Washington quarter is a favorite among coin collectors. Its value can vary depending on its condition and grade.

Collectors are particularly drawn to the 1971 quarter due to its historical context and the high mintage numbers, which make it a great entry point for new collectors. While most are common, specific mint errors or high-grade uncirculated examples can increase their worth dramatically. Determining value usually depends on visual appeal, rarity, and mintmark.

This guide will help you explore the 1971 quarter’s background, design, and notable errors that might significantly increase its value.

This detailed guide will walk you through the important aspects of the 1971 quarter—its historical background, unique design features, production details, and known error varieties. It will also explain how to evaluate your coin and identify any rare traits that may enhance its market value among collectors.

Let’s dive in!

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the 1971 quarter intriguing, from its general appearance to the rare anomalies that can make it far more valuable than the average pocket change.

1971 Quarter Value Chart

Mint Mark	Good	Fine	Extremely Fine	Uncirculated
1971 (No Mint Mark)	$0.30	$0.30	$0.30	$1,250
1971-D	$0.30	$0.30	$0.30	$1,100
1971-S (Proof)	–	–	–	$7,574

1971 Quarter Value Guides

Below is a breakdown of each 1971 Washington quarter type to help assess their collectible worth and uncover any hidden gems in your coin collection.

1971 No-Mint Mark Quarter

The Philadelphia Mint produced approximately 109 million quarters in 1971. These coins are still fairly easy to find in circulation and usually show signs of wear. Because they were struck in large quantities and often with weaker detail, examples in good condition are more difficult to locate. In circulated form, they typically sell for $0.30 to $0.85. Uncirculated coins in MS63 are worth about $8, while higher grades such as MS65 may fetch $10. Exceptionally high-grade MS67 examples have reached up to $3,840 at auction.

1971-D Quarter

The Denver Mint manufactured over 250 million quarters in 1971, making it the most productive mint that year. These coins generally display sharper details compared to their Philadelphia counterparts. Circulated examples are worth between $0.30 and $0.85, depending on their wear. In uncirculated condition, MS63 specimens are valued at around $8. Rare Mint State 68 coins are highly sought after and have sold for as much as $4,560 at auctions.

1971-S Proof Quarter

Proof quarters struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1971 were produced with enhanced precision and visual clarity, totaling about 3.2 million. These coins were not intended for circulation but were sold in special sets. Prices range from around $2.30 for PR60 coins to several thousand dollars for higher grades with Deep Cameo contrast. In 2023, a pristine PR70 example with subtle toning sold for $4,000, while a PR69 Deep Cameo fetched $7,574.

1971 Quarter Errors

Though most 1971 quarters are common, certain minting mistakes can make individual coins far more desirable. Error coins are rare and often command much higher prices due to their unique features and appeal to specialist collectors.

1971 Doubled Die Reverse

A doubled die error occurs when the coin’s die shifts slightly, creating a visible doubling effect, particularly noticeable on the lettering or the date. On 1971 quarters, collectors should look for doubling on “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These coins can range from $10 to $100, depending on how prominent and clear the doubling appears on the surface.

1971 Broad Struck Error

This type of error happens when a coin is struck without the collar that normally keeps its shape, resulting in a coin that is broader and flatter than usual. A well-centered broad strike with a complete design can attract significant attention, often selling for around $400 when in excellent condition.

1971 Clipped Planchet Error

Clipped planchet errors happen during the blank-cutting process, leaving part of the coin’s edge missing. These coins typically display a curved or straight “bite” mark. Features to watch for include distortion near the clipped area, weak rims on the opposite edge, and elongated design elements. These coins can be worth between $10 and $100 or more, especially if the date and other key features remain visible.

History Of The 1971 Quarter

First introduced in 1932, the Washington quarter was created to celebrate the 200th birthday of George Washington. Though it was initially meant as a one-time commemorative coin, it permanently replaced the Standing Liberty quarter. The obverse, designed by John Flanagan, was based on a bust by French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon. By 1971, all quarters were being minted from copper-nickel clad instead of silver, reflecting a shift in materials due to rising silver prices.

How To Identify 1971 Quarter?

Learning how to spot key details can help determine if your 1971 quarter is common or potentially valuable. Knowing what to look for can guide you in identifying rare examples or those in collectible condition.

Obverse Design

The front (obverse) of the 1971 quarter displays George Washington facing left. The word “LIBERTY” arches across the top, while “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed on the left side, just under his chin. The date “1971” is clearly marked at the bottom center, below Washington’s neckline.

Reverse Design

The back (reverse) shows a bald eagle with wings extended, perched on a bundle of arrows. Two olive branches sit below, symbolizing peace and readiness for defense. Above the eagle is “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircling the top and “QUARTER DOLLAR” along the bottom.

Other Features Of The 1971 Quarter

The 1971 quarter is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, layered over a solid copper core. It weighs 5.67 grams and measures 24.30 millimeters in diameter, with a reeded edge. Only coins minted in Denver feature the “D” mintmark, which can be found on the obverse, right beside Washington’s ponytail. Philadelphia and San Francisco-minted coins do not carry a mintmark.

Where Is The Mint Mark On A 1971 Washington Quarter?

The mintmark on the 1971 quarter—if present—will be a small letter “D” found on the front of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s hair tie. Only coins struck at the Denver Mint have this mark. Coins from Philadelphia and San Francisco (Proof coins) do not display a mintmark.

Does The 1971 Quarter Have Silver?

No 1971 Washington quarters contain silver. After 1964, the U.S. Mint shifted away from 90% silver coinage in favor of a copper-nickel composition. As such, all quarters made in 1971 are clad coins and do not have any intrinsic silver value, though collectible versions can still be worth much more.

Why Are 1971 Quarters Rare?

While most 1971 quarters are quite common due to their high production numbers, a small number become rare because of exceptional quality or unusual mint errors. Coins in flawless condition, as well as those with striking anomalies, are the ones that tend to fetch higher prices. These rare examples stand out from the hundreds of millions of others minted that year.

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