MYSTERY, Why Are ALL THREE “A” Letters Filled in? The Answer Will Surprise You!
The 1965 Washington Quarter with filled “A” letters represents one of the most intriguing error coins of the 20th century. With not one, not two, but THREE filed “A” letters in AMERICA, QUARTER, and DOLLAR-plus no mint mark-this coin presents a fascinating numismatic puzzle that has collectors buzzing
Historical Context: 1965-The Year Everything Changed
1965 was a pivotal year for U.S.coinage. It marked the end of the silver era and the beginning of clad coinage (copper-nickel sandwich). This transition created unique minting conditions that resulted in several interesting errors, including the mysterious filled letter varieties.
Coin Specifications & Details
Coin Type: Washington Quarter
Year: 1965
Mint Mark: NONE (Philadelphia)
Composition: Clad Copper-Nickel
Weight: 5.67 grams
Diameter: 24.26 mm
Edge: Reeded (119 reeds)
Condition: Circulated (Not Certified)
The “Filled A’s” Error Analysis
AMERICA: The first “A” in AMERICA is completely filled, appearing as a solid triangle rather than an open letter. This is the most common filled letter error on quarters.
QUARTER: The “A” in QUARTER shows partial to complete filling. On some examples, only the crossbar is filled; on others, the entire triangle space is solid
DOLLAR: The “A” in DOLLAR often shows the most dramatic filling. The complete closure of this letter creates a unique visual anomaly that’s immediately noticeable
Visual Representation of the Error
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
QUARTER DOLLAR
Simulation showing how the filled “A” letters appear on the coin (Actual appearance may vary)
The Missing Mint Mark Mystery
Why no mint mark? In 1965-1967, the US. Mint intentionally omitted mint marks from all coins to discourage collecting during the coin shortage. This makes all 1965 quarters technically “Philadelphia mint coins, regardless of where they were actually produced
This practice makes 1965 quarters particularly interesting to error collectors, as any distinguishing features must come from die varieties rather than mint marks
Current Market Value Estimate
$25: Minimum Value
$75: Average Value
$150+: Premium Examples
Factors Affecting Value:
Clarity of the filling (completely filled vs. partially filed)
Overall coin condition (wear, scratches, etc.)
Presence of other errors (double dies, off-center strikes, etc)
Eye appeal and originality of surfaces
Demand from filled-die collectors
Condition Assessment Guide
Good (G-4): Heavily worn, date readable
Very Good (VG-8): Moderate wear, some detail
Fine (F-12): Light to moderate wear
Very Fine (VF-20): Light wear on high points
Extremely Fine OCF-40) Minimal wear, crisp details
Note: Since this coin is described as “circulated,” it likely falls between Fine and Very Fine condition, though actual grade can only be determined by in-hand inspection.
How This Compares to Other 1965 Quarters
Authentication & Verification Guide
Since this coin is not certified, here’s how to verify its authenticity:
1. Magnification Check: Use a 10x loupe to examine the filled letters. They should show smooth, rounded filling-not scraped or gouged.
2. Die Flow Lines: Look for microscopic lines in the metal flow around the letters. Authentic filled dies show proper metal flow patterns.
3. Weight Verification: A genuine 1965 quarter should weigh 5.67 grams. Significant deviation indicates alteration.
4. Edge Inspection: Check for signs of tooling or added metal. Authentic errors show no evidence of post-mint manipulation.
Collector Value & Recommendations
Why This Coin Is a Great Addition to Any Collection
PROS:
Triple error (three filled letters)
Historical significance (first year of clad coinage)
Affordable entry into error collecting
Visually striking and easy to display
Growing demand among error collectors
CONS:
Not certified (buyer assumes authentication risk)
Circulated condition limits premium potential
Common base coin (1965 quarters are abundant)
May require explanation to non-collectors
Best For: Intermediate collectors, error specialists, Washington quarter completists, and those looking for an interesting conversation piece at an affordable price.
? Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the “filled A” error?
+The filled letter error occurs when grease, dirt, or metal shavings clog the recessed areas of a die during the minting process. This prevents metal from flowing into those areas, resulting in “filled” or “closed” letters on the struck coin.
How rare is a 1965 quarter with three filled A’s?
+While 1965 quarters with one filled A are relatively common, coins with all three A’s filled
+For a coin in this value range ($50-150), certification may not be cost-effective unless it’s in exceptional condition. However, if you plan to sell for maximum value or want authentication assurance, consider ANACS grading (more affordable than PCGS/NGC for error coins).
Can filled letter errors be faked?
+Yes, unscrupulous sellers sometimes fill letters with solder or epoxy. Always examine under magnification: authentic filled errors show smooth, rounded metal flow with no tool marks or added material.
Ready to Add This Unique Error Coin to Your Collection?
This 1965 Washington Quarter with three filled “A” letters represents a perfect storm of numismatic interest: historical significance, multiple errors, visual appeal, and affordability. Whether you’re starting an error collection or adding to an existing one, this coin offers tremendous value and conversation potential.
Remember: All coins described as “circulated” will show wear. The value is in the error, not the condition. Verify the error authenticity before purchasing!
