Hello, I was looking though some junk silver, and found this 1964 Quarter. I would like to know if it was a proof coin, or a Type B Reverse coin? I am not sure how to identify the difference in this condition. Thanks in advance for any replies and help.
Ockham's Razor. Whichever one is most common is likely the answer. That said, I'm pretty sure that those are worth melt in conditions below MS-64, and that looks closer to VF/XF. Edit: I would assume proof, based upon the toning level, FWIW.
I didn't think I hit the lottery or anything, thinking it was worth over melt, I just knew that those could be found in Mint Sets for that year.
Looks like a type B reverse to me. Interior fields (the flat areas) of the reverse down by the eagles tail and under the wings (especially) where the fields are most "protected from wear" don't appear to have the mirror look of a proof coin. Even worn proof coins should display some "mirror like shine" in the protected low areas of the coin or between the lettering if you look close and tilt it around in bright light. (but not always i guess). Proof coin fields are very glass like and are not "grainy" looking like circulation strikes. And It's even tougher to differentiate when you through in that the coin is circulated. If this were a proof i think you would see more of a mirror shine and/or glass like fields under the wings.... but... that's just my thoughts.
Yup, Type B for sure, but probably not worth much because of condition. I have a 1959 Type B that would likely grade 64 or 65.