7 Valuable State Quarters Still In Circulation That Could Change Your Financial Future
The 50 State Quarters Program, launched by the U.S. Mint between 1999 and 2008, introduced unique designs representing each state.
While most of these quarters are common, certain rare variations and errors have made some highly valuable.
Remarkably, some of these valuable state quarters are still in circulation today. Identifying these rare coins could significantly impact your financial future.
1. 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
The first quarter released in the series, the Delaware quarter, features an error known as the “Spitting Horse.”
This die crack error creates the appearance of a line extending from the horse’s mouth, resembling spit. Depending on its condition, this quarter can be worth between $10 and $20.
2. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
In 2004, some Wisconsin quarters were minted with an extra leaf on the corn stalk—a result of a die error. There are two variations: the “High Leaf” and the “Low Leaf.”
These quarters have been known to sell for up to $2,500, depending on their condition and the specific variation.
3. 2005-P Minnesota Double Die Quarter
The Minnesota quarter from 2005 has a known error called the “Double Die,” where an extra tree appears in the design due to a die duplication. Values for this error can range from $50 to $100, based on the coin’s condition.
4. 2009-D District of Columbia Double Die Quarter
Some 2009 District of Columbia quarters exhibit doubling in the inscriptions, particularly in “ELLINGTON” and “DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.” These double die errors can make the quarter worth between $50 and $100.
5. 2000-P South Carolina Off-Center Error Quarter
Off-center errors occur when the coin is not properly aligned during minting. Some 2000 South Carolina quarters were struck off-center, and depending on the degree of the error and the coin’s condition, they can be valued from $100 to $250.
6. 1999-P Georgia “Claw” Error Quarter
The Georgia state quarter has a known error where a die crack near the eagle’s claw gives the appearance of an extra talon, known as the “Claw” error. These quarters can be worth between $5 and $15, depending on their condition.
7. 2008-D Arizona Extra Cactus Leaf Quarter
Some Arizona quarters minted in 2008 display an extra leaf on the cactus, covering the artist’s initials. This error, caused by a die gouge, can increase the coin’s value to between $25 and $50.
Here’s a summary of these valuable state quarters:
| Year | State | Error/Variety | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Delaware | “Spitting Horse” | $10 – $20 |
| 2004 | Wisconsin | Extra Leaf (“High” or “Low”) | Up to $2,500 |
| 2005 | Minnesota | Double Die (“Extra Tree”) | $50 – $100 |
| 2009 | District of Columbia | Double Die Inscriptions | $50 – $100 |
| 2000 | South Carolina | Off-Center Error | $100 – $250 |
| 1999 | Georgia | “Claw” Die Crack | $5 – $15 |
| 2008 | Arizona | Extra Cactus Leaf | $25 – $50 |
Discovering a valuable state quarter in your change can be both exciting and financially rewarding. By familiarizing yourself with these rare errors and varieties, you can enhance your chances of finding a hidden treasure that could positively impact your financial future.
Always examine your quarters carefully—you never know what valuable piece of history might be in your possession.
FAQs
How can I identify these error quarters?
A1: Careful examination is key. Use a magnifying glass to inspect details such as extra lines, doubling of images or text, and any unusual markings that deviate from standard designs.
Are these error quarters still found in everyday circulation?
A2: Yes, it’s possible. While rare, some of these error quarters can still be found in pocket change, coin rolls from banks, or coin collections.
What should I do if I find one of these valuable quarters?
A3: Preserve its condition by handling it carefully, preferably with gloves. Store it in a protective coin holder and consider having it appraised by a professional coin dealer or grading service to determine its value.
