The 1968 United States Quarter is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Minted during a pivotal year in U.S. history, this quarter holds significant cultural and historical value. The 1968 quarter is part of the Washington Quarter series, which has been a staple of American coinage since 1932. This particular year's quarter is notable for several reasons, including its design, mintage, and the historical context in which it was produced.
The Design of the 1968 United States Quarter
The 1968 United States Quarter features the iconic design of George Washington on the obverse side, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1932. The design was created by John Flanagan and depicts a left-facing bust of Washington, based on a bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon. The inscription “LIBERTY” is placed above Washington’s head, while the date “1968” is located below the bust. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed to the left of Washington, and the mint mark is placed to the right of the date.
The reverse side of the 1968 United States Quarter features the heraldic eagle, which has been a symbol of American strength and unity since the country's founding. The eagle holds a bundle of arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right, symbolizing the nation's readiness for war and desire for peace. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is placed above the eagle, while "QUARTER DOLLAR" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" are inscribed below. The design of the reverse side has remained consistent since 1932, with minor adjustments over the years.
Mintage and Varieties
The 1968 United States Quarter was minted at three different facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. The Philadelphia mint produced the highest number of quarters, with a total mintage of 396,400,000. The Denver mint produced 367,600,000 quarters, while the San Francisco mint produced 3,000,000 quarters, all of which were proof coins.
There are no major varieties of the 1968 United States Quarter, but collectors often look for specific mint marks and proof coins. The Philadelphia and Denver mint marks are denoted by a "P" and "D," respectively, while the San Francisco mint mark is denoted by an "S." Proof coins are highly sought after by collectors due to their superior quality and limited mintage.
Historical Context
The year 1968 was a tumultuous time in American history, marked by significant social and political changes. The Vietnam War was at its peak, and the country was deeply divided over the conflict. The Civil Rights Movement was in full swing, with landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 having been passed in recent years. The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. in April 1968 sparked widespread riots and protests across the country.
Despite the turmoil, 1968 was also a year of progress and innovation. The Apollo 8 mission marked the first time humans orbited the moon, paving the way for the historic moon landing in 1969. The first 911 emergency system was implemented in Haleyville, Alabama, revolutionizing emergency response services. The 1968 United States Quarter serves as a tangible link to this pivotal year, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the era.
Collecting the 1968 United States Quarter
Collecting the 1968 United States Quarter can be a rewarding hobby for numismatists of all levels. The quarter’s historical significance and relatively high mintage make it an accessible and affordable addition to any collection. Here are some tips for collecting the 1968 United States Quarter:
- Start with Circulated Coins: Begin your collection with circulated 1968 quarters, which are widely available and relatively inexpensive. These coins can be found in circulation or purchased from coin dealers and online marketplaces.
- Look for Uncirculated Coins: As your collection grows, consider adding uncirculated 1968 quarters to your holdings. These coins are in pristine condition and can be more challenging to find, but they offer a higher level of detail and quality.
- Collect Proof Coins: Proof coins are struck with polished dies and special planchets, resulting in a mirror-like finish and sharp details. The 1968 proof quarter is a highly sought-after addition to any collection, with a limited mintage of 3,000,000.
- Pay Attention to Mint Marks: Collecting quarters from different mint facilities can add variety to your collection. Look for quarters with "P," "D," and "S" mint marks, and consider completing a set of all three varieties.
When collecting the 1968 United States Quarter, it's essential to handle your coins with care to preserve their condition and value. Store your coins in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use coin holders or albums designed for quarters to protect your collection from damage and wear.
💡 Note: Always inspect your coins carefully before purchasing to ensure their authenticity and condition. Be wary of counterfeit coins and avoid buying from untrusted sources.
Grading the 1968 United States Quarter
Grading is an essential aspect of coin collecting, as it determines the value and condition of a coin. The 1968 United States Quarter can be graded using the Sheldon scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Here are some key grading terms and their corresponding Sheldon scale values:
| Grade | Description | Sheldon Scale Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good | Heavily worn, with significant damage and loss of detail | 4-12 |
| Very Good | Moderately worn, with some detail remaining | 13-20 |
| Fine | Lightly worn, with most details still visible | 21-35 |
| Very Fine | Minimally worn, with sharp details and some luster remaining | 36-40 |
| Extremely Fine | Almost uncirculated, with only minor wear and full luster | 41-45 |
| Uncirculated | No signs of wear, with full luster and sharp details | 60-70 |
When grading your 1968 United States Quarter, use a magnifying glass to inspect the coin's surface for signs of wear, damage, and luster. Compare your coin to grading standards and references to determine its grade accurately. Professional grading services, such as PCGS and NGC, can also provide an unbiased assessment of your coin's condition and value.
💡 Note: Grading is subjective, and different collectors may have varying opinions on a coin's grade. Always consult multiple references and seek professional guidance when grading valuable coins.
Value and Rarity
The value of the 1968 United States Quarter varies depending on its condition, mint mark, and rarity. Circulated quarters are generally less valuable, with prices ranging from a few cents to a few dollars. Uncirculated quarters, particularly those in high grades, can command higher prices, with values ranging from 5 to 50 or more.
Proof coins are the most valuable, with prices ranging from $10 to $100 or more, depending on their condition and rarity. The 1968 proof quarter is particularly sought after due to its limited mintage and high-quality finish. Collectors should be aware that the value of proof coins can fluctuate based on market demand and the overall condition of the coin.
When determining the value of your 1968 United States Quarter, consider factors such as:
- Condition: The overall condition of the coin, including wear, damage, and luster, significantly impacts its value.
- Mint Mark: Coins with "S" mint marks are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage and higher demand.
- Rarity: The scarcity of a particular variety or condition can drive up its value.
- Market Demand: The current demand for 1968 quarters can affect their value, with popular coins commanding higher prices.
To get an accurate assessment of your coin's value, consult price guides, online marketplaces, and professional appraisers. Keep in mind that the value of coins can change over time, so it's essential to stay informed about market trends and fluctuations.
💡 Note: Always be cautious when selling or trading coins, and ensure you are dealing with reputable buyers and sellers to avoid scams and counterfeit coins.
Conclusion
The 1968 United States Quarter is a significant piece of American numismatic history, offering a glimpse into a pivotal year in the country’s past. Its iconic design, historical context, and relatively high mintage make it an accessible and valuable addition to any coin collection. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner collector, the 1968 quarter provides an opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of American coinage. By understanding the design, mintage, and historical context of the 1968 United States Quarter, collectors can appreciate the unique qualities that make this coin a treasured piece of American heritage.
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