The 1986 P Washington Quarter is a unique piece of American coinage that holds a special place in the hearts of collectors.
This quarter, minted in 1986 at the Philadelphia Mint, carries significant value, especially for collectors looking to add rare and historical coins to their collection.
In this guide, we will explore the value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter, what factors influence its worth, how to assess its condition, and how to buy or sell these valuable coins.
Contents
- 1 What is the 1986 P Washington Quarter?
- 2 Factors Influencing the Value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter
- 3 Current Market Value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter
- 4 Common Errors Found in the 1986 P Washington Quarter
- 5 How to Grade Your 1986 P Washington Quarter
- 6 Where to Buy or Sell the 1986 P Washington Quarter
- 7 FAQs
What is the 1986 P Washington Quarter?
The 1986 P Washington Quarter is part of the long-running Washington Quarter series that began in 1932. This coin features an obverse with the portrait of President George Washington, designed by John Flanagan, and a reverse showing an eagle, symbolizing American strength. The quarter was minted in Philadelphia, as indicated by the P mintmark.
Produced as part of the United States Mint’s regular production, the 1986 P Washington Quarter was made with a clad composition—comprising 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel—rather than the earlier silver versions.
The mintage was significantly high, making it more common than some other years, but certain coins from this year can still command impressive values based on condition and rarity.
Factors Influencing the Value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter
The value of a 1986 P Washington Quarter can vary widely depending on several key factors:
- Condition: The better the condition of the coin, the higher its potential value. Uncirculated coins and proof coins are typically worth more than those that have been in circulation and show wear.
- Rarity: While the mintage for the 1986 P was relatively high, specific variations, such as minting errors, can make a coin more valuable.
- Demand: The interest from collectors also plays a role in determining the coin’s worth. Coins that are in high demand will fetch higher prices.
Current Market Value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter
Here’s a breakdown of the value of the 1986 P Washington Quarter based on its condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Condition) | $3 – $5 | Coins with wear from circulation |
| Uncirculated (High Grade) | $5 – $15 | Pristine coins with no wear |
| Proof Coins (Minted for Collectors) | $10 – $20 | Coins with a higher-quality finish |
| Rare Mint Errors | $100 or more | Coins with minting mistakes |
As seen in the table, the 1986 P Washington Quarter can be worth more than its face value, especially in uncirculated or proof condition. Coins with mint errors may fetch higher prices based on their rarity.
Common Errors Found in the 1986 P Washington Quarter
Minting errors can make a 1986 P Washington Quarter even more valuable. While the 1986 P is not known for large-scale errors, some rare finds include:
- Double Die Errors: These occur when a die strikes the coin twice, creating a noticeable doubling of design elements.
- Off-Center Strikes: Coins that are not perfectly aligned during the minting process.
- Misprints: In rare cases, missing mintmarks or incorrect lettering can appear, driving up the coin’s value.
Collectors often seek these types of errors, as they are rare and highly prized in the numismatic community.
How to Grade Your 1986 P Washington Quarter
To assess the value of your 1986 P Washington Quarter, you need to grade the coin based on its condition. The most widely used grading system is the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Mint State). Here’s how to assess it:
- Examine the Coin: Look at the surface for signs of wear or damage.
- Check for Luster: Coins with a strong luster and minimal wear will be graded higher.
- Inspect the Design: Coins with clean, crisp designs without any distortions or errors are more valuable.
For more accurate grading, consider seeking a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Where to Buy or Sell the 1986 P Washington Quarter
You can buy and sell 1986 P Washington Quarters through various platforms:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or Amazon allow collectors to buy and sell coins.
- Coin Dealers: Reputable dealers specialize in rare coins and can provide valuable insights into pricing.
- Coin Shows and Auctions: Attending these events is a great way to find buyers and sellers with a keen interest in rare quarters.
Always ensure you’re buying from a trusted seller and consider getting the coin professionally graded to enhance its value and authenticity.
The 1986 P Washington Quarter may not be the rarest coin in history, but it holds significant value for collectors, especially in pristine condition or with rare mint errors.
By understanding how to grade your coin, recognizing valuable minting errors, and knowing where to buy or sell, you can make informed decisions that will benefit your coin collection.
Whether you’re a new collector or a seasoned numismatist, the 1986 P Washington Quarter is a great addition to any collection, offering both historical significance and potential financial reward.
FAQs
What is the value of a 1986 P Washington Quarter?
The value of a 1986 P Washington Quarter can range from a few dollars for circulated coins to $15 or more for uncirculated or proof coins. Coins with mint errors can fetch significantly higher prices.
What are mint errors in the 1986 P Washington Quarter?
Mint errors can include double die errors, off-center strikes, and misprints, all of which can increase the value of the coin due to their rarity.
How can I sell my 1986 P Washington Quarter?
You can sell your coin through online platforms, coin dealers, or coin shows. For better value, have your coin professionally graded before selling it.
