Introduction to the 1960 Quarter
The 1960 quarter, part of the Washington Quarter series, holds a special place in American numismatic history. Minted as part of the enduring Washington Quarter series that began in 1932, the 1960 quarter is significant for its role in the circulation of U.S. currency during a period of post-World War II economic growth. This article will explore the background of the Washington Quarter, the specifics of the 1960 quarter, its design, and its importance to coin collectors and historians.
Background of the Washington Quarter Series
The Washington Quarter series was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Prior to its release, the United States Mint produced the Standing Liberty Quarter from 1916 to 1930, but there was growing interest in paying tribute to the nation’s first president. Designed by John Flanagan, the Washington Quarter has since become a staple of U.S. coinage.
Flanagan’s design featured a bust of George Washington on the obverse (front) of the coin, while the reverse (back) depicted an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching a bundle of arrows. The Washington Quarter was initially intended to be a one-year commemorative issue, but its popularity ensured it became the permanent design for the denomination. Over the decades, the quarter has undergone some minor changes, but the 1960 quarter retained the original design, representing a key year before significant changes in U.S. coinage would take place.
Design and Specifications of the 1960 Quarter
The 1960 quarter features the classic Washington Quarter design by John Flanagan. The obverse depicts a right-facing bust of George Washington, surrounded by the inscription “LIBERTY” at the top and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the left of Washington’s neck. Below the portrait is the date “1960.”
The reverse of the 1960 quarter displays an eagle with its wings spread, perched on a bundle of arrows, symbolizing strength and defense. Below the eagle is a pair of olive branches, signifying peace. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appear along the top rim, and the denomination “QUARTER DOLLAR” is placed at the bottom.
The 1960 quarter was minted in a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. This metallic content was a standard for U.S. quarters from their inception in 1796 until 1964, after which the government transitioned to a copper-nickel clad composition due to rising silver prices. The silver content in the 1960 quarter is one of the main reasons it is highly sought after by collectors today, as it represents the last years of silver quarters before the change to a more modern composition.
Here are the key specifications for the 1960 Washington Quarter:
Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Diameter: 24.3 mm
Weight: 6.25 grams
Mint Marks: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), San Francisco (S)
Minting Locations and Variations
In 1960, the Washington Quarter was struck at three U.S. Mint locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Coins minted in Philadelphia bear no mint mark, while those minted in Denver have a small “D” mint mark located on the reverse side, below the wreath. Quarters minted in San Francisco carry an “S” mint mark. However, it’s important to note that in 1960, the San Francisco Mint only produced proof coins, which were sold to collectors in special proof sets.
- 1960 Philadelphia Quarter (No Mint Mark)
The 1960 quarters minted in Philadelphia were intended for circulation and did not bear a mint mark. These quarters are relatively common, as Philadelphia was the primary production facility for circulating coinage during this period. Over 70 million quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1960.
- 1960 Denver Quarter (D Mint Mark)
The Denver Mint also contributed to the production of the 1960 quarter, striking approximately 63 million coins for circulation. The Denver-minted quarters are distinguished by the small “D” mint mark on the reverse, making them easily identifiable for collectors. While slightly fewer in number than the Philadelphia-minted quarters, Denver quarters are also widely available.
- 1960 San Francisco Proof Quarter (S Mint Mark)
San Francisco struck only proof quarters in 1960, producing around 1.6 million coins. Proof coins are special issues created using highly polished dies and planchets, resulting in a coin with a mirror-like finish. These coins are typically more valuable due to their limited production and superior quality. Proof quarters from 1960 can be identified by the “S” mint mark and their brilliant luster.
The 1960 Quarter’s Role in American Currency
The 1960 quarter represents a time in American history when the country was experiencing significant social and economic changes. The United States was in the midst of the post-war economic boom, with increased industrialization, suburbanization, and technological advancements. Coins from this era, including the 1960 quarter, were an integral part of daily life, used for everyday transactions ranging from grocery shopping to transportation.
The Washington Quarter remained a reliable piece of currency, and its design and silver composition continued to symbolize stability and tradition. However, the 1960 quarter is also one of the last quarters minted in silver, which makes it historically significant. By the mid-1960s, the rising cost of silver led to the Coinage Act of 1965, which eliminated silver from quarters and other circulating coins. Thus, the 1960 quarter is part of the last generation of silver quarters, making it highly prized among collectors and investors alike.
Collecting the 1960 Quarter
For coin collectors, the 1960 Washington Quarter is a popular and accessible piece of numismatic history. Its silver content adds intrinsic value, while the historical context and classic design enhance its appeal. Collectors generally seek the 1960 quarter for several reasons:
- Silver Content
As mentioned earlier, the 1960 quarter contains 90% silver, which gives it intrinsic value based on the current price of silver. This makes it attractive not only to coin collectors but also to silver investors. Even quarters in worn condition retain value due to their silver content.
- Historical Significance
The 1960 quarter is one of the last silver quarters struck before the transition to clad coins in 1965. As such, it represents a closing chapter in U.S. coinage history and serves as a reminder of the era when American currency contained precious metals.
- Proof Versions
The 1960 proof quarters struck in San Francisco are particularly desirable due to their limited production and superior quality. Proof coins typically fetch higher prices than circulated coins, especially if they are in pristine condition.
- Condition and Grading
Like most collectible coins, the value of a 1960 quarter depends largely on its condition. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70), with higher grades commanding higher prices. Proof coins from 1960, if preserved in excellent condition, are especially valuable to collectors.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the 1960 Quarter
The 1960 quarter holds a unique place in American coinage history. As part of the iconic Washington Quarter series, it represents a time when silver was still used in everyday currency, symbolizing both tradition and economic stability. For collectors, the 1960 quarter offers an opportunity to own a piece of history, whether it’s a circulated quarter from Philadelphia or Denver, or a proof coin from San Francisco. Its classic design, historical significance, and silver content make the 1960 quarter a prized addition to any coin collection.
