In a remarkable turn of events, a seemingly ordinary 1970-S Washington quarter, discovered behind a family portrait, has fetched an astonishing $35,000 at auction.
This coin’s extraordinary value stems from a rare minting error that has captivated numismatists and collectors alike.
The Discovery
The coin was found concealed behind a family portrait, a hidden treasure waiting to be uncovered. Upon closer inspection, it was identified as a 1970-S Washington quarter with an unusual feature: it was struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter. This minting anomaly is exceptionally rare and has significantly increased the coin’s value.
Unique Features of the Coin
The coin’s uniqueness lies in its minting error, where a 1970-S Washington quarter was mistakenly struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter.
This error resulted in visible remnants of the original Canadian coin’s design, including parts of the date and inscriptions, beneath the U.S. quarter’s design. Such errors are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Auction Details
The coin was authenticated and graded as Proof 65 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), a leading coin grading service.
Its rarity and unique features led to a final auction price of $35,000, a testament to the coin’s exceptional value and the high demand for such rare minting errors.
Key Details of the Rare 1970-S Quarter
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year and Mint Mark | 1970-S |
| Minting Error | Struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter |
| Visible Features | Remnants of Canadian coin’s date and inscriptions |
| Grade | Proof 65 (NGC) |
| Auction Price | $35,000 |
The Significance of Minting Errors
Minting errors like this are highly prized in the numismatic community. They offer a glimpse into the minting process and are tangible pieces of history.
The rarity of such errors, combined with their unique characteristics, makes them valuable additions to any coin collection.
The discovery and subsequent sale of this rare 1970-S Washington quarter underscore the importance of examining coins closely.
What may appear as ordinary pocket change could, in fact, be a hidden treasure worth thousands. Collectors and enthusiasts are reminded to stay vigilant, as rare finds like this can surface in the most unexpected places.
FAQs
How can I identify if I have a rare minting error coin?
Look for unusual features such as overlapping designs, double strikes, or remnants of another coin’s design. Consulting a professional coin grader or numismatist can provide confirmation.
What should I do if I believe I have a valuable coin?
Have the coin authenticated and graded by a reputable coin grading service like NGC or PCGS. This will determine its authenticity and value.
Are minting error coins always valuable?
Not all minting errors are valuable. The value depends on the rarity, demand, and uniqueness of the error. Some errors may be common and hold little additional value.