Many people carry coins in their pockets without thinking twice. But what if one of those coins could make you a millionaire? For coin collectors and treasure hunters, that’s not just a dream — it’s a real possibility. One special coin, the 1966 Washington quarter, has caught attention because it might be worth as much as $20 million.
Why the 1966 Washington Quarter Is Special
At first, the 1966 Washington quarter looks normal. It shows George Washington’s face on the front and an eagle on the back. It looks just like other coins from that time. But coin experts, called numismatists, know some rare 1966 quarters are very different.
In 1965, the U.S. Mint stopped using silver in quarters. They started using copper-nickel instead. But in 1966, some quarters might have been made using leftover silver coin blanks from 1964. These rare coins are known as “transitional error” coins, and collectors really want them.
The $20 Million Coin
There are stories about a 1966 quarter that may be worth $20 million. This coin might have been made by mistake with a silver blank or a special die. It’s not just the metal that makes it valuable — it’s the mistake and how rare it is.
So far, no one has proven that a 1966 quarter sold for that much. But experts think such a coin could be out there. Maybe it’s in someone’s pocket or hiding in an old jar.
How to Check Your 1966 Quarter
Think you might have one of these valuable coins? Here’s what to look for:
Feature | What to Check |
Weight | Normal 1966 quarters weigh 5.67 grams. Silver ones weigh about 6.25 grams. |
Edge | Silver coins don’t show the copper edge. Check the side of the coin. |
Sound | Drop it gently. Silver coins make a soft, clear ring. |
Errors | Look for mistakes like double images, off-center designs, or strange marks. |
Condition | The better the condition, the more it’s worth. Mint or uncirculated coins are best. |
Even small errors can increase the value. But the rarest and most valuable coins are often the ones with big mistakes and in great condition.
Don’t Clean the Coin
If you think your coin is rare, don’t clean it. Cleaning can damage it and lower its value. Leave it just the way it is.
Get It Checked by a Professional
To know for sure if your coin is special, get it looked at by experts. Trusted groups like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) can help. They will check if the coin is real, if it has any errors, and what it might be worth.
These services may charge a fee, but it’s worth it if the coin is rare. A graded coin is easier to sell and can get a higher price at auction.
Where to Look for Rare Coins
You don’t have to search far. Rare coins like this could be hiding:
- In your pocket change
- In old coin jars
- In rolls of coins from the bank
- In your parents’ or grandparents’ collections
Sometimes people don’t know what they have. A simple check could make you rich.
Conclusion
The 1966 Washington quarter might seem like just another coin. But under the right conditions, it could be a rare treasure. If you find one that weighs more than normal or looks different, don’t ignore it. Get it checked. That coin could change your life.
Keep an eye on your change — you never know what it’s really worth.
FAQs
What is special about the 1966 quarter?
Some may be made of silver by mistake.
How much can a rare 1966 quarter be worth?
Up to $20 million, if it’s a rare error coin.
Should I clean my old coins?
No, cleaning can lower their value.
How do I know if my quarter is silver?
Check its weight and the coin’s edge.
Who can check if my coin is rare?
Use services like PCGS or NGC.