1968 Quarter Coin Value (Errors List, “D”, “S” & No Mint Mark Worth)

The 1968 Washington quarter marks a historic transition in American coinage as mint marks returned to U.S. coins after their three-year absence during the national coin shortage crisis.

Following the Coinage Act of 1965, which eliminated mint marks to discourage hoarding, 1968 restored the traditional identifying letters that collectors had missed since 1964. The year also marked the resumption of proof coin production at San Francisco, ending the temporary Special Mint Set era.

While most circulated 1968 quarters remain near face value at $0.25-$0.67, mint state examples show higher values, with Philadelphia issues at $32.57 and Denver quarters at $10.86.

 

1968 Quarter Value By Variety

Here’s what your 1968 quarter is actually worth, broken down by type and condition, if you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Quarter Worth Money (1932 – Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1968 Quarter Worth Money

The most valuable 1968 quarters reveal a clear hierarchy: condition is king, but errors can be game-changers. Top-grade regular issues dominate the list, with MS-68 examples of both Philadelphia and Denver quarters commanding serious four-figure prices that reflect their extreme scarcity in pristine condition.

But here’s where it gets interesting—error varieties punch well above their weight class. The 1968-D DDR FS-801 in MS-65 outperforms many higher-grade regular strikes, proving that dramatic minting errors create their own market dynamics.

Meanwhile, proof varieties like the 1968-S DCAM demonstrate how special finishes can transform relatively common dates into premium collectibles.

Notice how the 1968-D consistently outperforms its Philadelphia counterpart at the same grade levels—that lower mintage translates directly into higher values. Even the modest 1968-S RPM FS-501 error earns a spot on this top-ten list, showing that any interesting variety can find its collectors.

 

History Of The 1968 Quarter

The Washington quarter was first struck in 1932 to commemorate George Washington’s bicentennial birth anniversary.

Congress established a Bicentennial Committee to organize the celebrations, including making plans for a new coin in memory and honor of our country’s first president.

The Committee proposed that the new Washington coin replace the Walking Liberty half dollar only for 1932. But Congress was adamant about permanently replacing the Standing Liberty quarter with a quarter depicting Washington’s portrait on the obverse.

As part of the preparations, the Committee had engaged sculptor Lauren Fraser to design a commemorative presidential medal and thought she would also be a good choice for designing the new Washington quarter.

The Commission of Fine Arts supported Fraser’s work, but Treasury Secretary Andrew Melon had the last say. Mellon rejected Fraser as the Committee and Commission’s choice and instead held a new competition to find a designer.

In the end, Treasury chose John Flanagan as the designer for the Washington quarters. The Mint officially released the new quarters into circulation in August 1932.

The Washington quarters comprised 95 percent silver and only 5 percent, with this composition continuing until 1964, when the Mint began striking quarters in a copper-nickel alloy.

The coin’s design has generally remained the same except for the dates 1975-1976, when all pieces showed the double date, 1776 to 1976, in celebration of the United States Bicentennial. Washington’s bust on the obverse was reduced in size in 1999; these were small changes, but the coin’s design, including those struck in 1968, are generally as in 1932.

Also Read: Top 30 Most Valuable State Quarter Worth Money (1999 – 2008)

 

Is Your 1968 Quarter Rare?

What’s clear from these rankings is that mint mark and variety make all the difference in 1968 quarter collecting. Use our CoinValueChecker App to instantly check the rarity ranking of any quarter in your collection and see how it stacks up.

 

Key Features Of The 1968 Quarter

In this section, we’ll explore the unique features of the 1968 quarter. Knowing how your Washington quarter looks will help you identify the 1968 quarters worth good money.

The Obverse Of The 1968 Quarter

The obverse of the 1968 is quite simple, prominently featuring Washington’s left-facing bust, in which he holds his hair in a low ponytail.

The word LIBERTY boldly appears at the top around the rim. Directly opposite, at the bottom, you will see the year date, 1968.

Our country’s heavenly motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, is shown on the left, completing the features on the coin’s obverse.

The Reverse Of The 1968 Quarter

The reverse of the 1968 quarter is more detailed.

First, you will see a portrait of the balding eagle, America’s national symbol, which takes up most of the coin’s surface.

The bird has its wing majestically spread out and is perched on a bundle of arrows. The arrows represent readiness to defend the country’s sovereignty.Right underneath the eagle is an olive branch, symbolizing peace.

At the top, you will see the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA imprinted along the inner rim. This is followed by the E PLURIBUS UNUM motto above the eagle’s head.

The coin’s denomination, QUARTER DOLLAR, appears at the bottom along the rim.

Other Features Of The 1968 Quarter

The Washington quarters struck in 1968 comprise a copper core clad in 75% Copper and 25% Nickel.This coin is relatively large, measuring 24.30 millimeters and weighing 5.67 grams. It has a reeded rim.

The 1968 quarter was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, but only those from Denver have a mint mark. You will notice the mark D on the obverse, to the right, close to Washington’s ponytail.

Also Read: Top 20 Most Valuable 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter

 

1968 Quarter Mintage & Survival Data

The mintage and survival data tells the real story behind 1968 quarter values. Philadelphia produced a massive 220.7 million quarters (no mint mark), while Denver minted 101.5 million D quarters.

Both show identical 25% survival rates—meaning about three-quarters of all coins minted have been lost to circulation, damage, or melting over the decades.

Here’s where it gets interesting: 1968-S DCAM quarters have a remarkable 42.5% survival rate from their original 3 million mintage. This higher survival rate reflects the care collectors gave these special proof coins from day one.

The surviving distribution chart shows that although the absolute number of Denver-minted quarters is significantly smaller, their survival rate is the same as that of Philadelphia-minted quarters.This explains why 1968-D quarters command higher collector interest—fewer were made, and the same percentage survived.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Washington Quarter Worth Money (1932 – 1998)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1968 Quarter Value

Evaluating your 1968 quarter involves checking for mint marks (no mark for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, or rare “S” proof versions), assessing overall condition, and identifying any error varieties that collectors seek. Coins with sharp details, minimal wear, or striking errors can be worth considerably more than 25 cents.

Instead of spending hours researching price guides or seeking professional appraisals, let CoinValueChecker App  do the work for you. Simply photograph your 1968 quarter, and the app instantly analyzes its features, identifies varieties, grades its condition, and provides current market valuations. Whether it’s a common circulated piece or a valuable find, you’ll know exactly what you have.

 

1968 Quarter Value Guides

1968 Quarter Types：

• 1968 No Mint Mark – Philadelphia mint production
• 1968-D – Denver mint production  
• 1968-S Proof – San Francisco special collector strikes
• 1968-S CAM – Cameo contrast proof finish
• 1968-S DCAM – Deep Cameo ultra-contrast proof finish

Understanding these five distinct types is crucial for any 1968 quarter collector. The Philadelphia and Denver issues represent regular circulation strikes, with Denver being notably scarcer.

The three San Francisco varieties are all proof coins made specifically for collectors, with CAM and DCAM representing different levels of contrast between the frosted devices and mirror-like fields. Each type has its own market dynamics and value potential, making proper identification the first step in determining what you’ve found.

 

1968 No Mint Mark Quarter Value

The 1968 no mint mark quarter represents the tail end of an era—it was among the last Washington quarters struck in 90% silver before the U.S. Mint transitioned fully to copper-nickel clad composition.

This makes every 1968 Philadelphia quarter inherently more valuable than modern quarters, with its silver content alone providing a price floor above face value.

What makes this coin particularly interesting is the dramatic price escalation in top grades. While most examples trade near silver melt value, pristine specimens can command serious premiums, creating opportunities for collectors who understand condition rarity.

The auction record chart reveals just how much collectors will pay for exceptional examples of this seemingly common date.

Meanwhile, recent market activity shows steady collector interest, with trading volume reflecting both silver stackers and serious numismatists competing for quality pieces.

 

1968-D Quarter Value

The 1968-D quarter stands out as the scarcest regular-issue Washington quarter of its era, with Denver producing roughly half the quantity of Philadelphia. This lower mintage, combined with the coin’s 90% silver composition, creates a perfect storm for collector demand.

Unlike its Philadelphia counterpart, the 1968-D maintains stronger premiums across all grade levels, making it the key date that serious Washington quarter collectors actively seek.

What makes this Denver mint quarter particularly compelling is its consistent performance in the marketplace—it’s not just rare, it’s genuinely scarce in higher grades, creating sustainable long-term value.

The auction records demonstrate just how much collectors are willing to pay for premium examples of this genuinely scarce date.

Current market activity reflects steady demand from both type collectors and date-and-mintmark specialists who recognize the 1968-D as a legitimate condition rarity.

 

1968-S Proof Quarter Value

The 1968-S proof quarter represents the entry point into San Francisco’s proof coin production, offering collectors an affordable way to own a professionally struck specimen with mirror-like fields and frosted devices.

Unlike business strikes, these coins were specially made for collectors using polished dies and multiple strikes, creating the distinctive proof finish that separates them from circulation coins.

What makes the 1968-S proof particularly appealing is its reasonable pricing across most grades, making it accessible to both beginning and advanced collectors. The gradual price curve shows steady premiums without dramatic spikes, reflecting consistent but manageable demand.

The auction record history reveals stable, predictable pricing that makes this an ideal type coin for proof set collectors.

Market activity demonstrates steady interest from collectors who appreciate quality specimens at reasonable price points, creating reliable liquidity for both buyers and sellers.

 

1968-S CAM Quarter Value

The 1968-S CAM quarter represents the sweet spot in proof collecting—offering superior visual appeal over regular proofs without the premium pricing of Deep Cameo examples.

The “CAM” designation indicates a pronounced contrast between the frosted portrait and lettering against deeply mirrored fields, creating the dramatic black-and-white effect that collectors prize in proof coins.

What sets CAM quarters apart is their perfect balance of eye appeal and affordability. They deliver most of the visual impact of their DCAM counterparts while remaining accessible to collectors at various budget levels. The gradual price curve shows reasonable premiums that reflect genuine scarcity without speculative pricing.

The auction record data demonstrates consistent collector appreciation for this attractive middle-tier proof variety.

Market activity reflects steady demand from collectors who recognize CAM proofs as offering exceptional value in the proof quarter market.

 

1968-S DCAM Quarter Value

The 1968-S DCAM quarter featuring the most dramatic contrast between ultra-frosted devices and deeply mirrored fields. Deep Cameo designation requires the sharpest possible definition between foreground and background elements, creating a stunning three-dimensional appearance that makes these coins the crown jewels of any proof collection.

What makes DCAM quarters truly special is their scarcity within an already limited proof production. Only the earliest strikes from freshly prepared dies achieve this level of contrast, making them condition rarities that command substantial premiums. The dramatic price escalation in higher grades reflects both their visual superiority and genuine scarcity.

The auction record history reveals strong collector demand for these visually spectacular proof quarters at all grade levels.

Market activity shows robust interest from serious collectors who recognize DCAM proofs as the ultimate expression of the minting arts.

Also Read: What Quarters Are Worth Money

 

Rare 1968 Quarter Error List

While most 1968 quarters are worth face value or silver melt, a select few error varieties command serious collector premiums. These minting mistakes create unique specimens that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the right buyer.

1. 1968-D DDR FS-801

This doubled die reverse error shows distinctive doubling on the eagle’s breast feathers and tail, creating a dramatic visual effect that’s easily spotted with magnification.

The 1968-D DDR FS-801 represents one of the most significant Denver mint errors of the era, with strong doubling visible to the naked eye on well-preserved examples.

Collectors prize this variety for its bold doubling and the relative scarcity of Denver mint errors compared to Philadelphia issues. Values range from moderate premiums in lower grades to substantial sums for uncirculated examples, making it a key target for error coin specialists.

2. 1968-S DDR FS-801

The San Francisco version of this doubled die reverse exhibits the same distinctive eagle doubling as its Denver counterpart, but with the added appeal of being available in proof and cameo finishes.

This combination of proof quality surfaces, cameo contrast, and dramatic doubling creates an exceptionally desirable variety that commands premium prices across all grades.

The 1968-S DDR FS-801 shows particularly strong doubling on the eagle’s breast and tail details, making identification straightforward for collectors. The cameo contrast enhances the visual impact of the doubling, creating one of the most eye-catching error coins of the series.

3. 1968-S DDO FS-101

This doubled die obverse error features noticeable doubling on Washington’s profile, particularly visible around the hair details and facial features. The 1968-S DDO FS-101 represents a classic obverse doubling that creates the “ghost image” effect collectors love in doubled die varieties.

As a proof coin error, it combines the visual appeal of doubling with the mirror-like surfaces and sharp details that make proof coins so attractive.

The doubling is most prominent on Washington’s hair and the date, making authentication relatively straightforward for experienced collectors. Values reflect both the error premium and the inherent collectibility of proof coins.

4. 1968-S RPM FS-501

The Re-Punched Mint mark variety shows evidence of the “S” mint mark being punched multiple times in slightly different positions, creating a distinctive overlapping effect available in both proof and cameo finishes.

This 1968-S RPM FS-501 demonstrates the hand-punching process used for mint marks during this era, when each mint mark was individually added to working dies. The cameo finish enhances the visibility of the re-punched mint mark against the mirrored fields, making detection easier for collectors.

While not as dramatic as doubled die errors, RPM varieties in cameo proof have their own dedicated following among specialists who appreciate these production artifacts.

Also Read: 20 Rare Washington Quarter Errors Worth Money (Full List with Pictures)

 

Where To Sell Your 1968 Quarter?

Ready to put your 1968 quarter expertise to work? I’ve researched the most successful selling strategies and collector venues where these silver Washington quarters consistently deliver strong returns to savvy sellers who know what they’re holding.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1968 Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 1968 Quarter

1. Do all 1968 quarters have mint marks?

No. Although all three minting facilities—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco produced quarters in 1968, only the coins from Denver have a mint mark. This mark appears on the obverse next to Washington’s ponytail.

2. What is special about the 1968 quarter?

Despite being as collectible as other Washington quarters, there is nothing particularly special about the 1968 quarter. This date is readily available in all grades and is affordable to boot, even in mint state. That said, what stands out about this date is the S-on-D error, a big point of fascination among collectors.

3. Is the 1968 quarter made of silver?

Contrary to popular belief, especially among newbie collectors, the 1968 quarter is not made of silver. The Mint stopped using silver to make quarters in 1965; all other quarters struck after that year comprised a copper core with 75% copper and 25% nickel cladding.