In a remarkable turn of events, a seemingly ordinary 1970-S Washington Quarter discovered in a box of buttons has fetched an astonishing $93,000 at auction. This rare coin’s value lies in a unique minting error that has captivated numismatists and collectors alike.
The Discovery
The coin was found concealed in a box of buttons, 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 an 1898 Five Dollar Gold Coin. 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 an 1898 Five Dollar Gold Coin.
This error resulted in visible remnants of the original 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 66 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), a leading coin grading service. Its rarity and unique features led to a final auction price of $93,000, 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 an 1898 Five Dollar Gold Coin |
| Visible Features | Remnants of original coin’s date and inscriptions |
| Grade | Proof 66 (NGC) |
| Auction Price | $93,000 |
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.
The discovery of the 1970-S Washington Quarter struck over an 1898 Five Dollar Gold Coin serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that may lie unnoticed in everyday items.
This extraordinary find not only fetched $93,000 at auction but also reignited interest in coin collecting and the fascinating world of minting errors.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious novice, it’s worth taking a closer look at the coins in your possession—you never know what rare gem you might uncover.
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 and demand for the specific error. However, significant errors like the one found in the 1970-S Washington Quarter can be worth substantial amounts.