1981 quarter error

[spillercanyon]

I found this in my change many years ago and has been sitting in my coin collection. There is no indication of any error on the back side. There appears to be some folding in the copper. I posted this a couple years ago in the coin forum but never got a response as to what it might be worth. Any information about what it might be worth or how to find out what it's worth would be appreciated.

Thanks, Spiller.​

 

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[xr7ator]

My guess is that it's not a mint error but post mint damage. I see you are out in CA. Ever take it to a coin dealer?

 

[spillercanyon]

I haven't taken it to a coin dealer yet. I believe it is a mint error in that the copper appears to have been stamped rather than something creating this after it was put in circulation, though I'm no expert.

 

[xr7ator]

Me neither and without it being in my hand I probabaly can't grasp the definition. It could very well be a struck through error but very hard to tell from the pics.

I'd throw it in the vehicle and next time you drive by the coin shop.

Here's a sold listing form ebay:https://www.ebay.com/itm/1977-Washi...=true&nordt=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

 

[galenrog]

Based on the images, it could be a lamination error. When the copper core and cupronickel layers (top and bottom) are laminated (pressed together under heat and high pressure), if there is a defect in the cupronickel laminate, top or bottom, it could present itself in much the same as your coin. Run it by a reputable shop that has someone familiar with errors.

It could also be environmental damage. It does not take much for a little copper to show itself in the cupronickel alloy. I have doubts on this due to sharpness of copper edges against the cupronickel. A close personal look should tell the tale.
Time for more coffee.

 

[Carl-NC]

This is a mint error. A small scrap of metal got onto the planchet when it was stamped and ended up fused into the coin.

 

[galenrog]

That, Carl, is another possibility I had not thought of. Mostly due to that being far less likely, in my opinion, than a simple defect in creation of the planchettes. Still, a possibility.

Time for more coffee.