The U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, which ran from 1999 to 2008, produced some of the most collectible coins in American history. While most of these quarters are common, a few have become highly valuable due to minting errors and low mintage numbers. Whether you’re a casual collector or a seasoned numismatist, knowing which quarters to look for can turn your pocket change into a small fortune.
Here’s a breakdown of five rare state quarter errors and ten rare state quarters that might still be in circulation.
5 State Quarter Errors to Watch For
1. 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
This quarter features a die crack that extends from the mouth of Caesar Rodney’s horse, giving the illusion that the horse is “spitting.” This error can be worth between $10 and $20. (U.S. Mint)
2. 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarters
Some Wisconsin quarters were struck with an extra leaf on the corn stalk—either a “High Leaf” or “Low Leaf” variation. These errors can fetch between $50 and $1,500 depending on condition. (Coin Value Checker)
3. 2005-P Minnesota “Extra Tree” Quarter
A doubled die error resulted in the appearance of an extra tree in the background of this coin. Depending on the prominence of the doubling and the condition, values can range significantly. (American Numismatic Association)
4. 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter
A grease-filled die caused the “T” in “Trust” to appear missing, leading to the phrase “In God We Rust.” This error is highly sought after by collectors. (U.S. Mint)
5. 2006-P Colorado “Die Chip” Quarter
Some Colorado quarters feature a die chip near the mountain design, creating extra metal lumps on the coin’s surface. The larger and more noticeable the chip, the higher the coin’s value. (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
10 Rare State Quarters to Look For in Pocket Change
1. 1999-P Connecticut Quarter
Some early Connecticut quarters were struck on experimental planchets, making them distinct from regular issues. These are valuable due to their rarity.
2. 1999-P Georgia Quarter with Errors
Some Georgia quarters from the first year of the program contain missing letters or other anomalies. Their values vary depending on the severity of the error.
3. 1999-P Pennsylvania Quarter (Broadstruck Error)
Broadstruck errors occur when the coin is struck outside of the collar, causing an expanded or misshapen rim. These quarters are rare and valuable.
4, 2000-P South Carolina Quarter with Off-Center Strike
Coins that are not properly aligned during minting result in off-center strikes. The greater the misalignment, the more valuable the quarter.
5. 2000-P New Hampshire Quarter with Die Crack
This error occurs when a fracture in the die results in raised lines on the coin’s surface. Values vary based on the severity of the crack.
6. 2003-P Alabama Quarter with Doubled Die Obverse
Doubling on the design elements of this quarter makes it a collector’s item, with prices depending on the prominence of the doubling.
7. 2004-P Texas Quarter with Grease Strike-Through Error
Some Texas quarters have a grease-filled die error that causes missing details. A high-grade example of this coin once sold for $10,000.
8. 2005-P West Virginia Quarter (Struck on Foreign Planchet)
Some quarters were mistakenly struck on planchets intended for foreign coins, making them highly collectible.
9. 2007-P Wyoming Quarter with Doubled Die Reverse
Doubling on the reverse side of this quarter makes it one of the rarer varieties from the 50 State Quarters program.
10. 2008-D Oklahoma Quarter with Partial Collar Error
This error results in a slight misalignment of the edge reeding, creating a unique look that collectors seek.
How to Identify Rare State Quarters?
If you think you have a rare or error state quarter, follow these steps to verify its authenticity:
- Examine the Coin Closely: Use a magnifying glass or microscope to look for doubling, cracks, or missing elements.
- Compare with Known Errors: Research reputable numismatic websites like NGC Coin or PCGS for images of verified errors.
- Weigh the Coin: Some errors involve wrong planchets, so comparing weight to a standard quarter (5.67 grams) can help determine authenticity.
- Get it Graded: Certified grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and grade your coin, making it easier to sell or trade.
Conclusion
State quarters may seem like everyday pocket change, but some can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Whether you’re searching for rare mint errors or low-mintage coins, staying informed and checking your change carefully can pay off. Keep an eye out for these 15 rare state quarters—you never know what might be hiding in your wallet!
For more information on coin collecting and state quarter values, visit the U.S. Mint’s official website or check with professional grading services like NGC and PCGS.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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