Numismatic

1967 Washington Quarter SMS

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In 1967, the United States Mint produced a distinctive version of its classic twenty-five cent piece for the Special Mint Set (SMS). This issue represents a fascinating era in American coinage, showcasing a modern composition of a pure copper inner core bonded to an outer layer of blended copper and nickel. The resulting coin displays a bright, metallic luster that highlights the intricate details of its mid-century design. The obverse of the coin features the familiar left-facing profile of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan. Surrounding the portrait are the bold inscriptions of LIBERTY and the national motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, with the date 1967 anchored at the bottom. This clean, dignified portrait has defined the quarter-dollar denomination for decades. On the reverse, a powerful heraldic eagle is depicted with its wings spread wide, gripping a bundle of arrows and an olive branch beneath its talons. The Latin phrase E PLURIBUS UNUM is nestled above the eagle, while the legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and QUARTER DOLLAR frame the top and bottom borders. This combination of classic American symbols and specialized minting techniques makes the 1967 SMS quarter a compelling subject for study.