How much is a 1956 quarter worth?

A 1956 quarter is worth about $0.25 in circulated condition. Uncirculated 1956 quarters are worth more, depending on their grade. The value of a 1956 quarter can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and other factors.

The 1956 quarter is a clad coin, meaning it is made of copper and nickel. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the head of George Washington, while the reverse (tails) features an eagle in flight. The 1956 quarter was the first year that the clad composition was used for quarters.

The 1956 quarter is a common coin, but it can still be valuable in uncirculated condition. Uncirculated 1956 quarters are worth more than circulated coins because they have not been damaged by wear and tear. The value of an uncirculated 1956 quarter depends on its grade. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin.

The 1956 quarter is a popular coin among collectors. Collectors are interested in the coin's history, rarity, and value. The 1956 quarter is a good investment for collectors because it is a common coin that is still valuable in uncirculated condition.

How Much Is A 1956 Quarter Worth

The value of a 1956 quarter depends on several key aspects, including its condition, rarity, and grade.

Condition: Circulated 1956 quarters are worth about $0.25, while uncirculated quarters are worth more.
Rarity: The 1956 quarter is a common coin, but some varieties are rarer than others.
Grade: The higher the grade of an uncirculated 1956 quarter, the more valuable it is.
Errors: 1956 quarters with errors can be worth more than regular quarters.
Variety: There are several different varieties of the 1956 quarter, each with its own value.
Mint mark: 1956 quarters were minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Quarters minted in San Francisco are worth more than quarters minted in Philadelphia or Denver.

Overall, the value of a 1956 quarter can vary depending on its specific characteristics. Collectors should carefully examine their coins to determine their value.

1. Condition

The condition of a 1956 quarter is one of the most important factors in determining its value. Circulated quarters are coins that have been in circulation and have wear and tear. Uncirculated quarters are coins that have not been in circulation and are in mint condition.

Circulated quarters have been used in everyday transactions and have been exposed to wear and tear. This can include scratches, dings, and other damage. Circulated quarters are worth about $0.25.
Uncirculated quarters have not been in circulation and are in mint condition. They have no scratches, dings, or other damage. Uncirculated quarters are worth more than circulated quarters, depending on their grade.

The grade of an uncirculated quarter is determined by its condition. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin. The Sheldon grading scale is used to grade uncirculated coins. The Sheldon grading scale ranges from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest grade.

The value of a 1956 quarter can vary depending on its condition. Circulated quarters are worth about $0.25, while uncirculated quarters are worth more. The grade of an uncirculated quarter also affects its value. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin.

2. Rarity

The rarity of a coin is a major factor in determining its value. The 1956 quarter is a common coin, but some varieties are rarer than others. These rare varieties are worth more than the common varieties.

For example, the 1956-D quarter is a rare variety that was minted in Denver. Only about 2.5 million 1956-D quarters were minted, compared to over 100 million 1956 quarters that were minted in Philadelphia. This makes the 1956-D quarter much rarer than the common 1956 quarter.

The rarity of a coin can also be affected by its condition. A rare coin that is in good condition is worth more than a rare coin that is in poor condition. This is because a coin that is in good condition is more desirable to collectors.

The rarity of a 1956 quarter is an important factor in determining its value. Rare varieties of the 1956 quarter are worth more than common varieties. The condition of a coin also affects its value.

It is important to note that the rarity of a coin is not the only factor that affects its value. Other factors, such as the coin's condition, grade, and mint mark, can also affect its value.

3. Grade

The grade of an uncirculated 1956 quarter is a major factor in determining its value. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin. This is because a coin that is in better condition is more desirable to collectors.

The Sheldon grading scale is used to grade uncirculated coins. The Sheldon grading scale ranges from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest grade. A coin that is graded 70 is in perfect condition and has no scratches, dings, or other damage. A coin that is graded 60 is in good condition and has only minor scratches or dings. A coin that is graded 50 is in fair condition and has more noticeable scratches or dings.

The grade of a coin is important because it gives collectors an idea of the coin's condition. A coin that is in better condition is worth more than a coin that is in poor condition. This is because a coin that is in better condition is more desirable to collectors.

For example, a 1956 quarter that is graded 60 is worth more than a 1956 quarter that is graded 50. This is because the 1956 quarter that is graded 60 is in better condition than the 1956 quarter that is graded 50.

The grade of a coin is an important factor in determining its value. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin. This is because a coin that is in better condition is more desirable to collectors.

4. Errors

Errors can occur during the minting process, which can result in coins with unique characteristics. These errors can make a coin more valuable to collectors. In the case of 1956 quarters, there are a number of known errors that can increase the value of the coin.

Off-center strikes occur when the coin is not properly centered on the die during the striking process. This can result in a coin that has a design that is off-center from the center of the coin.
Double strikes occur when the coin is struck twice by the die. This can result in a coin that has a doubled design.
Die breaks occur when a crack develops in the die. This can result in a coin that has a raised or sunken area on the design.
Repunched mint marks occur when the mint mark is stamped on the coin twice. This can result in a coin that has a doubled mint mark.

The value of a 1956 quarter with an error depends on the type of error and the severity of the error. Some errors are more common than others, and some errors are more desirable to collectors than others. For example, a 1956 quarter with an off-center strike is worth more than a 1956 quarter with a die break.

If you find a 1956 quarter with an error, it is important to have the coin evaluated by a professional coin dealer or numismatist. They can help you determine the value of the coin and advise you on the best way to sell the coin.

5. Variety

The variety of 1956 quarters is a significant factor in determining their value. Different varieties of the 1956 quarter exist due to changes in the minting process or errors that occurred during production. These varieties can have a significant impact on the value of the coin.

Minting Process: Different 1956 quarters were minted at different facilities, including the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints. Quarters minted at different facilities may have slight variations in their design or composition, which can affect their value.
Errors: Errors that occur during the minting process can create unique varieties of 1956 quarters. These errors can include off-center strikes, double strikes, and die breaks. Error coins are often highly sought after by collectors and can command a premium price.
Design Variations: Some 1956 quarters have subtle design variations that make them distinct from other varieties. These variations can include differences in the size or placement of design elements, or the presence of additional design elements such as mint marks or privy marks.
Rarity: The rarity of a particular variety of 1956 quarter also affects its value. Some varieties were minted in smaller quantities than others, making them more scarce and valuable to collectors.

When determining the value of a 1956 quarter, it is important to consider its variety. Different varieties can have significantly different values, so it is essential to have the coin properly identified and authenticated by a professional numismatist or coin dealer.

6. Mint mark

The mint mark is a small letter or symbol that appears on the reverse (tails) side of a coin, indicating the mint facility where it was produced. The mint mark is important for determining the value of a coin, as different mint facilities may produce coins with different characteristics or rarities.

Rarity: The rarity of a coin is a major factor in determining its value. Quarters minted in San Francisco are generally rarer than those minted in Philadelphia or Denver, as the San Francisco Mint produced a smaller number of coins during this period. This rarity contributes to the higher value of San Francisco-minted quarters.
Collectors' preferences: Collectors often prefer coins that were minted in certain facilities or during specific periods. San Francisco-minted coins are particularly popular among collectors, as they are seen as being of higher quality and having a more historic significance. This collector demand further drives up the value of San Francisco-minted quarters.
Historical significance: The San Francisco Mint has a rich history and is known for producing high-quality coins. Quarters minted in San Francisco during the 1950s are particularly sought after by collectors, as they represent a time of significant change and innovation in the U.S. coinage system.

Overall, the mint mark on a 1956 quarter is an important factor in determining its value. Quarters minted in San Francisco are generally worth more than those minted in Philadelphia or Denver due to their rarity, collectors' preferences, and historical significance.

FAQs about "How Much is a 1956 Quarter Worth?"

This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions about the value of 1956 quarters.

Question 1: What factors determine the value of a 1956 quarter?

Answer: The value of a 1956 quarter is influenced by several factors, including its condition, rarity, grade, errors, variety, and mint mark.

Question 2: How much is a circulated 1956 quarter worth?

Answer: A circulated 1956 quarter is typically worth around $0.25.

Question 3: What is the value of an uncirculated 1956 quarter?

Answer: The value of an uncirculated 1956 quarter depends on its grade. Higher grades, such as MS65 or MS70, can be worth significantly more than lower grades.

Question 4: Are there any rare varieties of the 1956 quarter?

Answer: Yes, there are several rare varieties of the 1956 quarter, including the 1956-D quarter, which was minted in Denver and has a lower mintage than other varieties.

Question 5: How can I determine the value of my 1956 quarter?

Answer: To accurately determine the value of your 1956 quarter, it is recommended to have it evaluated by a professional coin dealer or numismatist.

Summary: The value of a 1956 quarter can vary depending on its condition, rarity, grade, errors, variety, and mint mark. Circulated quarters are generally worth $0.25, while uncirculated quarters can be worth significantly more. Rare varieties and high grades can further enhance the value of a 1956 quarter.

Next Section: Understanding Coin Grading and Rarity

Conclusion

In summary, the value of a 1956 quarter is determined by a combination of factors, including its condition, rarity, grade, errors, variety, and mint mark. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurately assessing the worth of a 1956 quarter.

While circulated 1956 quarters are commonly worth around $0.25, uncirculated quarters can be significantly more valuable. Rare varieties, high grades, and desirable mint marks can further enhance the value of these coins. Collectors and investors alike should carefully examine and research their 1956 quarters to determine their true worth.