The Hunt for Herbert Hicks’ Lost 1968-S Type F Quarter: A Cherry Picker’s Guide to Modern Proof Varieties

Let’s talk treasure hunting—the kind you can do without a dealer’s markup. As a lifelong roll hunter, I’ve dug through countless bank rolls, bulk estate sale lots, and proof sets at coin shows. The real thrill? It’s not just silver or errors—it’s uncovering overlooked history, like the newly recognized 1968-S Type F Washington Quarter. This proof variety, championed by legendary variety hunter Herbert Hicks, is a numismatic gem hiding in plain sight. Grab your loupe—we’re diving deep into one of modern collecting’s most exciting pursuits.

The Legacy of Herbert Hicks: Mentor to a Generation of Cherry Pickers

Every great numismatic discovery has its unsung hero. For the 1968-S Type F Quarter, that hero was Herbert Hicks—known online as “ProofArtworkonCircs”—whose encyclopedic knowledge of Washington Quarter varieties inspired collectors for decades. His passion was infectious. As fellow specialist Tom recalls: “When I first connected with Herbert in 2012 over our shared obsession with quarter varieties, I immediately recognized a kindred spirit. He didn’t hoard knowledge—he reveled in sharing every diagnostic detail.” Hicks’ generosity defined him. One collector still cherishes an email where Herbert jokingly “anointed” him as an expert after a routine eBay sale. Though his passing left a void, Hicks’ legacy now shines brighter than ever: PCGS recently added the 1968-S Type F to their prestigious Complete Variety Set (Proof 1936-Present). This official recognition—the culmination of Hicks’ lifelong research—proves that rare varieties still await discovery by sharp-eyed collectors.

The 1968-S Washington Quarter: Setting the Stage

Before hunting this rarity, understand its pedigree. Struck at the San Francisco Mint as part of a proof set, this 91.67% copper/8.33% nickel piece lacks silver content but overflows with collectibility. Most examples boast brilliant luster and razor-sharp strikes—yet hidden among common Type G and H reverses lies our prize: the elusive Type F. Crucial note: this is strictly a proof variety. You won’t find it in circulated rolls. Focus your search on these hotspots:

• Original Proof Sets: Mint-sealed 1968-S sets often surface unsearched at estate sales
• Bulk Proof Lots: Dealers frequently sell “raw” proofs from broken-up collections
• Estate Liquidations: Goldmines for untouched proof coins forgotten in attics
• Online Listings: eBay auctions where unattributed treasures still slip through

The Art of Attribution: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Identifying the Type F requires a detective’s eye—the differences from common Type G reverses are subtle but definitive. Through my loupe, I’ve found three key diagnostics that never lie:

The Naked-Eye Test: Type F vs. Type G

After studying Jose Gallego’s Heartland Coin Club materials and Tom’s ongoing research, here’s what separates the extraordinary from the ordinary:

• Smudged Wing Margins: The Type F’s lower wing edges lack definition compared to Type G’s bold, sculpted relief. On the right wing near arrows, details often fade completely—like a ghostly patina.
• Pointed Leaf Secret: That leaf touching arrowheads? Type F shows a distinct spear-point shape versus Type G’s rounded tip.
• Arrow Anatomy: Type F’s upper arrow stretches longer, narrowing the gap with the left leaf. Missing its top barb—a tiny but telling absence.
• Die Heritage Matters: Type G dies were actually reworked Type F models, with fields lowered beneath wings to enhance relief. This created Type G’s striking depth but left the Type F with a unique “doubled” appearance on far-left leaves.

Gear Up Like a Pro

Arm yourself with these essential tools:

• 10x Loupe: Non-negotiable for assessing wing margins and leaf details
• Variety Vista’s Gallery: Bookmark their 1968-S RDV-006 page for instant side-by-side comparisons
• Reference Coins: Keep a common 1969-P (Type G reverse) handy for instant A/B testing

Market Realities: Why This Variety Matters Now

Let’s talk brass tacks—the 1968-S Type F’s numismatic value has skyrocketed since PCGS recognition. Early finds traded under $100; today’s certified examples command serious premiums. Here’s why:

The Numbers Don’t Lie (Late 2023/Early 2024 Data)

• PCGS Population: Still under 10 graded—with just one PR69 reigning as “Top Pop”
• Price Trajectory: Raw coins fetch $150+ if identified; PCGS-certified pieces? $300+ for PR66, climbing exponentially for gem specimens
• Registry Rush: PCGS’s 304-coin Complete Variety Set now requires this variety—creating urgent demand among elite collectors

“Suddenly my ‘common’ proof quarter needed variety designation—the landscape changed overnight.” – Forum Collector

This collector’s experience reflects the new reality: attribution equals value.

Pro Hunting Tactics: Finding Needles in Proof Set Haystacks

Ready to join the hunt? Follow my battle-tested protocol:

1. Source Smart: Comb through 1960s proof sets—especially “unsearched” estate sale lots
2. Eliminate the Obvious: Master Type G/H identification first—they’re 75% of finds
3. Wing Margin Whisperer: Under magnification, faded lower wing edges scream “Type F candidate!”
4. Secondary Checks: Confirm with pointed leaf tip and elongated arrow diagnostics
5. Document Everything: Shoot high-resolution reverse photos—share with Variety Vista experts for peer review
6. Grade Strategically: Submit potential finds to PCGS as “Type F Reverse (794719)”—proper attribution maximizes returns

A Fitting Finale: Hunting With Heritage

The 1968-S Type F Quarter isn’t just another variety—it’s Herbert Hicks’ lasting gift to collectors. It embodies everything we love: historical significance, subtle beauty, and that electrifying moment when study meets serendipity. As proof sets from the 1960s continue surfacing, your next find might rewrite a collection’s value—and honor a numismatic pioneer’s legacy.

So dust off those magnifiers, hit those estate sales, and remember: great discoveries aren’t just about sharp eyes—they’re about seeing coins through the passion of those who loved them first. Happy hunting!

Related Resources

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