If you’ve got silver quarters from 1956–1964, they might be worth five times their melt value — and if you’ve got the rare Type B reverse, you could turn a $6 coin into $30–$40+ instantly.
Let’s break down exactly how to find these valuable coins hiding in plain sight.
💎 Why “Type B” Quarters Are So Valuable
All U.S. quarters minted before 1965 contain 90% silver, but Type B reverse quarters have a special design difference that collectors will pay big premiums for.
Key Features to Spot:
- Gap in “STATES” – Look closely at the “E” and “S” in STATES; a clear gap means it’s a Type B.
- Leaf Touching the “A” – On the word DOLLAR, one olive leaf touches the crossbar of the “A” (common on some Type B dates).
💰 Value Comparison
| Quarter Type | Average Melt Value | Type B Premium Value |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Silver Quarter | $6–$8 | – |
| Type B Reverse | – | $30–$40+ |
Recent Auction Sales:
- 1957-D Type B (AU) – Sold for $45 (2024)
- 1956 Type B (XF) – Sold for $32 (2023)
🔍 How to Identify a Type B Silver Quarter (Step-by-Step)
- Check the Date – Must be 1956–1964 (90% silver composition).
- Flip to the Reverse – Look at the eagle side.
- Inspect the Details:
- Gap between the E and S in STATES
- Olive leaf touching the “A” in DOLLAR
- Compare Side-by-Side – Use PCGS CoinFacts or a reputable guide for visual confirmation.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a 10× magnifier — the design differences can be subtle.
📈 Why These Coins Command Premiums
- Scarcity – Many collectors don’t know about this variety.
- Short Minting Period – Type B reverse was used primarily 1956–1958 before design changes.
- Collector Demand – Registry set collectors pay extra for verified Type B examples.
🛠️ How to Sell a Type B Quarter for Maximum Profit
- Get It Graded – Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication (fee: $30–$50).
- Sell in the Right Marketplace:
- eBay – Use precise keywords: “1956 Type B Reverse Silver Quarter”
- Coin Forums – Like CoinTalk or Reddit r/Coins
- Specialty Auctions – Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections for high-grade coins
- Avoid Rookie Mistakes:
- ❌ Never clean your coin — it will slash the value.
- ❌ Avoid pawn shops and lowball offers.
🚨 Red Flags & Scam Warnings
- Fake Photos – Scammers digitally alter coin images to fake the gap in STATES.
- Overhyped Claims – No Type B quarter is worth $1,000+.
- Social Media Misinformation – Always verify with PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Explorer.
💡 Beginner Tips for Coin Hunters
- Always carry a 10× loupe for checking details.
- Check every 1956–1964 silver quarter — even worn ones can be Type B.
- Network with other collectors in Facebook groups like Silver Coin Variety Hunters.
💬 Found a Type B Quarter?
Post your photos in the PennyVerse Forum for a free authenticity check!
📌 PennyVerse.info – Helping Coin Collectors Since 2010 🏛️🔍
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