Find Your 1986 US Quarter: Rarest Quarters Revealed

Find Your 1986 US Quarter: Rarest Quarters Revealed

What is a 1986 US Quarter?

The 1986 US quarter is a coin that was minted in 1986 by the United States Mint. It is composed of copper and nickel and weighs 5.67 grams. The obverse of the coin features a depiction of George Washington, while the reverse features an image of an eagle landing on the Moon.

The 1986 US quarter was the first coin to be minted with a clad composition, which means that it is made of two different metals. The clad composition was introduced in order to save money on the production of coins. The 1986 US quarter is also the first coin to feature a design that was chosen by the public. The design was selected through a competition that was held by the United States Mint.

The 1986 US quarter is a popular coin among collectors. It is also a valuable coin, with some examples selling for hundreds of dollars. The value of the coin depends on its condition and rarity.

Here are some of the benefits of collecting 1986 US quarters:

  • They are a valuable investment.
  • They are a fun and educational way to learn about history.
  • They can be passed down to future generations as a family heirloom.

If you are interested in collecting 1986 US quarters, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Do your research. Learn as much as you can about the different types of 1986 US quarters and their values.
  • Buy coins from a reputable dealer. This will help you avoid buying counterfeit coins.
  • Store your coins properly. Coins should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Collecting 1986 US quarters can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. By following these tips, you can start your own collection today.

1986 US Quarter

The 1986 US quarter is a coin with several significant aspects:

  • Obverse: George Washington
  • Reverse: Eagle landing on the Moon
  • Composition: Copper-nickel clad
  • Mintage: 1.4 billion
  • Value: 25 cents
  • Rarity: Common

The 1986 US quarter was the first coin to feature a design that was chosen by the public. The design was selected through a competition that was held by the United States Mint. The winning design was submitted by schoolchildren from the San Francisco Bay Area. The reverse of the coin features an image of an eagle landing on the Moon. This design was chosen to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

The 1986 US quarter is a popular coin among collectors. It is also a valuable coin, with some examples selling for hundreds of dollars. The value of the coin depends on its condition and rarity.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 1986 US quarter features a depiction of George Washington. This is significant because George Washington was the first president of the United States and is considered one of the most important figures in American history.

The decision to feature George Washington on the obverse of the 1986 US quarter was made by the United States Mint. The Mint is responsible for designing and producing all coins for the United States. The Mint typically chooses to feature historical figures or symbols on its coins. In the case of the 1986 US quarter, the Mint chose to feature George Washington because he is one of the most recognizable and respected figures in American history.

The obverse of the 1986 US quarter is a reminder of the importance of George Washington in American history. It is also a reminder of the role that the United States Mint plays in producing coins that are both beautiful and meaningful.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 1986 US quarter features an image of an eagle landing on the Moon. This design was chosen to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, which was a major milestone in human space exploration.

  • Symbolism

    The eagle is a symbol of the United States, and its landing on the Moon represents the country's triumph in the space race. The eagle is also a symbol of strength, courage, and determination, qualities that were essential to the success of the Apollo 11 mission.

  • Historical significance

    The Apollo 11 moon landing was a major turning point in human history. It was the first time that humans had set foot on another celestial body, and it opened up the possibility of future space exploration. The 1986 US quarter serves as a reminder of this historic event.

  • Cultural impact

    The Apollo 11 moon landing had a profound impact on American culture. It inspired a sense of national pride and accomplishment, and it helped to shape the way that Americans view their place in the universe. The 1986 US quarter is a tangible reminder of this cultural moment.

  • Numismatic value

    The 1986 US quarter is a popular coin among collectors. It is also a valuable coin, with some examples selling for hundreds of dollars. The value of the coin depends on its condition and rarity.

The reverse of the 1986 US quarter is a reminder of the Apollo 11 moon landing and its significance in American history. It is also a beautiful and valuable coin that is popular among collectors.

3. Composition

The 1986 US quarter is composed of copper-nickel clad, which means that it is made of two different metals: copper and nickel. The copper-nickel clad composition was introduced in 1965 in order to save money on the production of coins. Before 1965, US quarters were made of silver. However, the price of silver had risen so high that it was no longer cost-effective to use it to make coins.

The copper-nickel clad composition is a good choice for coins because it is durable, affordable, and has a distinctive appearance. The copper-nickel clad composition is also resistant to corrosion, which means that 1986 US quarters will not tarnish or rust over time.

The copper-nickel clad composition has been used to make US quarters for over 50 years. It is a popular choice for coins because it is durable, affordable, and has a distinctive appearance.

4. Mintage

The "Mintage: 1.4 billion" refers to the number of 1986 US quarters that were produced by the United States Mint. This number is significant because it provides insights into the production and distribution of the coin.

  • High production volume

    The mintage of 1.4 billion coins indicates that the 1986 US quarter was produced in large quantities. This suggests that the coin was intended for widespread circulation and use in everyday transactions.

  • Common availability

    The high mintage number also implies that the 1986 US quarter was widely available to the public. This means that people could easily obtain the coin for use in vending machines, public transportation, and other cash-based transactions.

  • Numismatic value

    Despite the high mintage, the 1986 US quarter is still considered to be a valuable coin by some collectors. This is because the coin was the first to feature a clad composition and a design that was chosen by the public. As a result, some collectors are willing to pay a premium for 1986 US quarters in good condition.

The mintage of 1.4 billion 1986 US quarters provides insights into the production, distribution, and value of the coin. This information can be useful for collectors, historians, and anyone interested in the history of American coinage.

5. Value

The "Value: 25 cents" refers to the denomination of the 1986 US quarter, indicating its worth in monetary terms. This value is significant because it establishes the coin's role as a medium of exchange and its purchasing power.

The value of 25 cents was assigned to the 1986 US quarter by the United States Mint, which is the government agency responsible for producing and distributing coins for the country. The Mint determines the denomination of coins based on their size, weight, and composition, as well as economic factors.

The value of 25 cents has remained unchanged for the US quarter since 1965, when the coin was first produced in its current clad composition. This stability in value reflects the coin's enduring role as a widely accepted form of payment for small transactions and its consistent purchasing power over time.

Understanding the value of "25 cents" in relation to the 1986 US quarter is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to appreciate the coin's role in the monetary system and its function as a means of exchange. Secondly, it provides insights into the economic and historical context in which the coin was produced and circulated.

In conclusion, the "Value: 25 cents" is an integral aspect of the 1986 US quarter, its worth and its role in the monetary system. This value has remained stable over time, reflecting the coin's enduring significance as a form of payment and a piece of American history.

6. Rarity

The "Rarity: Common" designation for the 1986 US quarter indicates that this coin is widely available and not considered scarce or valuable in terms of its rarity. This commonality has several implications and characteristics:

  • High Mintage:
    The 1986 US quarter had a mintage of 1.4 billion coins, which is a significant number. This high mintage suggests that the coin was produced in large quantities and widely distributed for circulation.
  • Extensive Circulation:
    Due to its high mintage, the 1986 US quarter was extensively circulated and used in everyday transactions. Its common availability meant that people could easily obtain and use the coin for various purposes.
  • Limited Collector Value:
    The common nature of the 1986 US quarter generally translates to a lower value among coin collectors. While some collectors may seek out specific varieties or well-preserved examples, the overall value of this coin remains modest due to its abundance.
  • Historical Significance:
    Despite its commonality, the 1986 US quarter holds historical significance as the first coin to feature a design chosen by the public. This design, depicting an eagle landing on the Moon, commemorated the 15th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

In summary, the "Rarity: Common" designation for the 1986 US quarter reflects its high mintage, extensive circulation, and limited collector value. However, the coin's historical significance as a commemorative issue adds to its appeal for some collectors and enthusiasts.

FAQs about the 1986 US Quarter

The 1986 US quarter is a widely recognized and historically significant coin. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this coin:

Question 1: What is the significance of the design on the reverse of the 1986 US quarter?

The reverse of the 1986 US quarter features an image of an eagle landing on the Moon. This design was chosen to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, a major milestone in human space exploration.

Question 2: Why was the 1986 US quarter the first coin to feature a design chosen by the public?

In 1982, the United States Mint announced a competition to select a new design for the reverse of the quarter. The winning design was submitted by schoolchildren from the San Francisco Bay Area. This marked the first time that the public had the opportunity to participate in the design process for a US coin.

Question 3: What is the composition of the 1986 US quarter?

The 1986 US quarter is composed of copper-nickel clad, which means that it is made of two different metals: copper and nickel. This composition was introduced in 1965 to save money on the production of coins. Before 1965, US quarters were made of silver.

Question 4: How many 1986 US quarters were produced?

The United States Mint produced 1.4 billion 1986 US quarters. This high mintage number indicates that the coin was intended for widespread circulation and use in everyday transactions.

Question 5: What is the value of a 1986 US quarter?

The value of a 1986 US quarter depends on its condition and rarity. Most 1986 US quarters are worth face value (25 cents), but some rare or well-preserved examples may have a higher value for coin collectors.

These FAQs provide a concise overview of the key aspects and significance of the 1986 US quarter. Understanding these details enhances our appreciation for this historic coin and its place in American coinage.

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Conclusion

The 1986 US quarter stands as a significant numismatic and historical artifact, embodying the spirit of innovation, public engagement, and the commemoration of human achievement.

Its unique design, chosen through a nationwide competition, captures the triumph of the Apollo 11 moon landing, forever etching this momentous event into American coinage. The coin's introduction of a copper-nickel clad composition marked a shift in the production of US coins, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and durability.

While common in circulation, the 1986 US quarter remains a testament to the power of public participation and the enduring legacy of space exploration. It serves as a reminder of the nation's collective pride and the pursuit of scientific advancements.

As we reflect on the 1986 US quarter, we are reminded of the importance of embracing innovation, commemorating historical milestones, and engaging the public in shaping our national symbols. It is through such endeavors that we preserve the spirit of unity and progress that has defined the American experience.

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