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The Certified 1964 Washington Quarter, graded PF68 by NGC, is an exceptional piece of U.S. proof coinage and a significant part of numismatic history. This quarter represents the final year of silver coinage in the Washington Quarter series before the transition to the copper-nickel clad composition in 1965. The Washington Quarter series, introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, became one of the longest-running series in American coinage. Proof coins, struck with specially prepared dies and polished planchets, exhibit sharp details and highly reflective surfaces, and in PF68 condition, this 1964 quarter is a near-flawless example of mid-century U.S. proof coinage. The combination of its historical importance, silver content, and pristine condition makes it highly desirable for collectors.
The obverse of the 1964 Washington Quarter features a right-facing profile of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan. Washington’s portrait is based on a bust created by French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon in 1786, and Flanagan’s adaptation of this iconic image has endured for decades. The obverse design includes the inscription "LIBERTY" above Washington’s head and "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left. The date "1964" is placed below the bust. In PF68 condition, the obverse displays a brilliant mirror-like finish, with frosted design elements that create a stunning contrast between the raised details and the highly reflective fields. The intricate details of Washington’s hair and facial features are crisp and sharp, making this proof coin a standout in terms of craftsmanship. Any imperfections are minimal and difficult to detect without magnification, contributing to the coin’s overall visual appeal.
The reverse of the 1964 Washington Quarter showcases a heraldic eagle, an enduring symbol of American strength and freedom. The eagle, with outstretched wings, clutches a bundle of arrows in its talons, symbolizing the nation’s preparedness for war, while an olive branch beneath the arrows represents peace. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" are displayed above the eagle, while the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR" is inscribed at the bottom. The reverse design has remained largely unchanged since the series’ inception, reflecting the stability and continuity of U.S. coinage. In PF68 condition, the reverse exhibits outstanding clarity and luster, with well-defined details in the eagle’s feathers and the surrounding inscriptions. The coin’s proof finish enhances the design, providing a high level of contrast between the frosted details and the reflective background.
The Philadelphia Mint, which produced the 1964 proof Washington Quarter, was the only mint responsible for striking proof coins at the time. Proof sets, which included the cent, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar, were packaged and sold directly to collectors, making them an important part of the numismatic landscape during the 1960s. The mintage for the 1964 proof Washington Quarter was 3,950,762, reflecting the increasing demand for proof sets during this period. Although the mintage was relatively high, finding examples in PF68 condition is more challenging, as only the most perfectly struck and well-preserved coins achieve this high grade. Proof coins like this 1964 quarter were struck with extra care to ensure sharpness of detail and a flawless surface, making them particularly prized by collectors.
The 1964 Washington Quarter holds special significance in U.S. coinage history as it marks the end of the silver era. From 1932 to 1964, Washington Quarters were struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, giving them both numismatic and intrinsic value. The rising cost of silver in the early 1960s led to the introduction of copper-nickel clad coinage in 1965, making the 1964 quarter one of the last regular-issue U.S. coins struck in silver. As a result, the 1964 proof quarter is highly sought after by collectors who appreciate both its historical importance and its silver content. The coin’s silver composition, combined with its proof finish and high grade, makes it an attractive option for both numismatists and investors in precious metals.
The PF68 grade, assigned by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), indicates that this coin is in near-perfect proof condition, with only the slightest imperfections visible under magnification. NGC is one of the most respected third-party grading services in the world, known for its consistent grading standards and rigorous evaluation process. A coin graded PF68 exhibits full original luster, a sharp strike, and minimal, if any, contact marks or blemishes. The high grade of this 1964 Washington Quarter proof ensures that it is a premium example of U.S. proof coinage, appealing to collectors who seek top-quality pieces for their collections.
The Certified 1964 Washington Quarter, graded PF68 by NGC, is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. Its combination of historical significance, silver content, and pristine condition makes it a valuable addition to any collection of Washington Quarters or proof coinage. As the last year of silver coinage in the Washington Quarter series, the 1964 proof quarter represents the end of an era, making it a must-have for collectors interested in U.S. silver coins. Whether acquired for its beauty, its silver content, or its historical importance, this 1964 proof Washington Quarter is sure to be a treasured piece in any numismatic collection.