If you’re a coin collector or someone who occasionally finds loose change in odd places around the house, it’s worth paying close attention to the coins you come across. What may seem like an ordinary piece of metal could actually be worth much more than its face value. Certain coins from the 1960s are particularly sought after by collectors, not just for their age but for their rarity, condition, and even the materials used to make them.
Here’s a list of five coins from the 1960s that you should be on the lookout for if you want to increase your wealth.
1. 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter
The 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter is a fascinating find, especially in uncirculated condition. Even though over 135 million of these quarters were minted at the Denver Mint in 1963, it’s rare to find one that hasn’t been in circulation. Because of this, uncirculated versions of this coin can fetch a high price at auction.
In 2022, one of these coins sold for a staggering $24,000! Most commonly, though, they’re worth around $16,000, which is still an impressive return for a single quarter. If you happen to come across one in great condition, it might just be your lucky day.
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2. 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter
The 1965 Washington Quarter marked a shift in coin production as silver was phased out of dimes and quarters. However, due to a coin shortage that year, the 1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter holds significant value, especially if you find one in brilliant uncirculated (BU) condition.
In 2005, one of these coins sold for $12,650, and it’s likely worth even more today. So, if you find a 1965 quarter in your collection, be sure to check its condition—it could be worth far more than you think.
3. 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter
Many people remember using these quarters during their youth, especially those from the Baby Boomer and Gen X generations. The 1962-D Silver Washington Quarter, like many other quarters from this time, is valuable not only for its silver content but also for its historical significance and collectability.
While today’s quarters showcase important American figures, earlier designs, including the eagle on the reverse side, are still cherished by collectors. This particular quarter could be worth a good amount depending on its condition, so it’s worth taking a closer look at any quarters you have from this time.
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4. 1960 Penny (No Mint Mark)
You might think a penny can’t buy much anymore, but if you come across a 1960 penny with no mint mark, you could be holding onto a small fortune. Depending on the coin’s condition, its value could range from just $4 to several thousand dollars.
Proof coins, in particular, tend to hold higher value. A 1960 penny with no mint mark and a deep cameo of Lincoln could be worth around $2,600, according to experts. These coins are rarer and produced in limited quantities, making them a prized possession for collectors.
5. 1960 Ben Franklin Half Dollar
Much like the quarters from the 1960s, half dollars from this era were made with real silver. A 1960 Ben Franklin Half Dollar contains a little over one-third of an ounce of silver, making it worth at least $11 or $12 based on the price of silver today.
However, if you find one in mint condition, it could be worth much more—upwards of $300, according to CoinTrackers.com. Given how easy it is to recognize a half dollar, it’s worth checking any that you have lying around for their date and condition.
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Final Thoughts
Finding coins from the 1960s in your collection could be a fun and profitable adventure. Whether it’s a rare quarter, penny, or half dollar, these small pieces of history can hold big value. Always check the condition of your coins and consider consulting a numismatist or online value checker to see just how much they could be worth. Who knows—you might be sitting on a hidden fortune!