The 50 State Quarters Program, launched in 1999, brought unique designs to American currency and created a wave of interest among coin collectors.
While most quarters are worth only face value, some rare state quarters with errors or unique characteristics can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Here are 10 state quarters you should be on the lookout for that could bring you significant returns.
Delaware Quarter
The 1999 Delaware quarter is famous for the “Spitting Horse” error. This unique error results from a die crack near the horse’s mouth on the coin’s reverse, making it appear as though the horse is spitting. Coins with this error can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars based on condition and demand.
Wisconsin Quarter
Issued in 2004, the Wisconsin quarter features two notable error varieties: the “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” versions. These errors involve extra leaves on the ear of corn on the reverse design, likely caused by die manipulation. These quarters are highly sought after and can be worth up to $1,500.
Minnesota Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota quarter has gained popularity due to its “Extra Tree” error. This error shows additional trees in the background near the main tree design on the coin’s reverse. Collectors are willing to pay high prices for this intriguing mistake.
Kansas Quarter
One of the most amusing errors is found on the 2005 Kansas quarter, where the motto “In God We Trust” appears as “In God We Rust” due to a grease-filled die. This lighthearted yet rare error makes the coin highly collectible.
Arizona Quarter
The 2008 Arizona quarter is notable for the “Extra Cactus” error. This die error partially obscures the designer’s initials on the reverse, leading to an appearance of extra cactus branches. Such coins can fetch impressive prices among collectors.
Georgia Quarter
Issued in 1999, the Georgia quarter occasionally features a double-die error on its reverse. This error causes elements like the state outline or text to appear doubled. Coins with this flaw can bring in significant profits depending on their condition.
Connecticut Quarter
The 1999 Connecticut quarter is renowned for die-clash errors, where parts of the design from the obverse and reverse are faintly imprinted on each other. These rare coins are highly desirable among collectors.
Tennessee Quarter
The 2002 Tennessee quarter sometimes features a double-die error, where elements of the design appear doubled. This variation makes the coin particularly valuable to numismatists.
Nevada Quarter
The 2006 Nevada quarter is known for an error called a “Cud,” which occurs when part of the die breaks, leaving a raised blob on the coin’s surface. This unique defect significantly enhances the coin’s value.
Oregon Quarter
Released in 2005, the Oregon quarter features minor but noticeable die breaks and doubled-die errors on the reverse design. Coins with these features are rare and can command high prices in the collector’s market.
| Coin Name | Year of Issue | Error Type | Approximate Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Quarter | 1999 | Spitting Horse Error | 200-2,000 |
| Wisconsin Quarter | 2004 | High/Low Leaf Error | 300-1,500 |
| Minnesota Quarter | 2005 | Extra Tree Error | 250-1,000 |
| Kansas Quarter | 2005 | In God We Rust Error | 50-300 |
| Arizona Quarter | 2008 | Extra Cactus Error | 100-500 |
| Georgia Quarter | 1999 | Double-Die Error | 500-2,000 |
| Connecticut Quarter | 1999 | Die Clash Error | 200-1,000 |
Rare state quarters offer collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of history while reaping the benefits of their increasing market value.
From striking errors to design variations, these coins are a testament to the charm and quirks of minting processes. Checking your spare change carefully could reveal a hidden gem worth a small fortune.
What makes state quarters valuable?
State quarters become valuable due to rare errors, unique features, or limited availability, which attract collectors willing to pay premium prices.
How can I identify an error on a state quarter?
Examine the coin closely using magnification and good lighting. Look for irregularities like doubling, extra elements, or distorted text and designs.
Are circulated state quarters valuable?
Yes, even circulated quarters can have significant value if they feature rare errors. However, uncirculated or high-grade coins are typically more valuable.
