7 Rare State Quarters That Could Be Worth A Fortune – And 5 More To Watch For
The 50 State Quarters Program, introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1999, captivated coin collectors and casual hobbyists alike. Spanning from 1999 to 2008, the series celebrated each U.S. state with unique designs.
While millions of these quarters were minted, some rare variations and errors have become highly valuable and sought-after.
Rare State Quarters could fetch significant sums at auction. Here’s a detailed guide to 7 rare State Quarters that could be worth a fortune and 5 more you should keep an eye on.
7 Rare State Quarters Worth a Fortune
1. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
- Details: This coin features an error with an extra leaf on the corn stalk—either a “High Leaf” or “Low Leaf.”
- Mintage: Denver Mint.
- Value: Depending on the condition, it can sell for $300 to $1,500.
2. 1999-P Delaware Quarter (Spitting Horse Error)
- Details: A die crack near the horse’s mouth gives the appearance of the horse “spitting.”
- Mintage: Philadelphia Mint.
- Value: Typically worth $10 to $200, with high-grade coins reaching $1,000.
3. 2005 Minnesota Quarter (Doubled Die Error)
- Details: A doubling of the trees on the reverse side is visible.
- Mintage: Both Philadelphia and Denver Mints.
- Value: Sells for $50 to $300, depending on the severity of the doubling and coin grade.
4. 2001-P Kentucky Quarter (Die Gouge Error)
- Details: This quarter has a noticeable die gouge above the horse’s head on the reverse.
- Mintage: Philadelphia Mint.
- Value: Coins with prominent errors are valued between $100 and $300.
5. 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter (Doubled Die Error)
- Details: Doubling is evident on the inscriptions “ELLINGTON” and “DUKE.”
- Mintage: Denver Mint.
- Value: Fetches anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the condition.
6. 1999 Georgia Quarter (Claw Error)
- Details: A minting anomaly creates an extra “claw” near the talon on the reverse.
- Mintage: Philadelphia Mint.
- Value: Sells for $100 to $800, depending on the clarity of the error.
7. 2000-P South Carolina Quarter (Cud Error)
- Details: A prominent cud (raised area caused by a die break) appears on the reverse.
- Mintage: Philadelphia Mint.
- Value: High-grade examples with visible cuds sell for $150 to $500.
5 More State Quarters to Watch For
1. 2004 Iowa Quarter (Doubled Die Error)
- Details: Doubling can be seen in the inscriptions “FOUNDATION IN EDUCATION.”
- Value: Typically worth $50 to $300.
2. 1999-P Pennsylvania Quarter (Reverse Die Crack)
- Details: Die cracks near the keystone design increase the coin’s value.
- Value: Ranges from $10 to $150, depending on severity.
3. 2002-P Mississippi Quarter (Struck-Through Error)
- Details: Struck-through grease or debris creates unique obstructions on the design.
- Value: Sells for $25 to $200, based on the visibility of the error.
4. 2005 Kansas Quarter (“In God We Rust” Error)
- Details: A grease-filled die causes “Trust” to appear as “Rust.”
- Value: Typically sells for $50 to $300.
5. 2006 Nevada Quarter (Die Crack Error)
- Details: Cracks in the die create additional marks near the horse design.
- Value: Worth between $20 and $100, depending on the prominence of the crack.
| Quarter | Year | Mintmark | Error/Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Quarter | 2004-D | Denver | Extra Leaf Error | $300-$1,500 |
| Delaware Quarter | 1999-P | Philadelphia | Spitting Horse Error | $10-$1,000 |
| Minnesota Quarter | 2005 | Both | Doubled Die Trees | $50-$300 |
| Kentucky Quarter | 2001-P | Philadelphia | Die Gouge Above Horse | $100-$300 |
| District of Columbia Quarter | 2009-D | Denver | Doubled Die Inscriptions | $50-$500 |
| South Carolina Quarter | 2000-P | Philadelphia | Cud Error on Reverse | $150-$500 |
| Kansas Quarter | 2005 | Both | “In God We Rust” Error | $50-$300 |
Why Are These State Quarters So Valuable?
- Minting Errors: Coins with visible doubling, die cracks, or cuds are highly collectible.
- Low Availability: Many error coins were not identified at the time of release, making them rare.
- Historical Significance: The 50 State Quarters program celebrates U.S. history and statehood, adding to their appeal.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades (MS65 or above) fetch premium prices at auctions.
The 50 State Quarters Program was not just a celebration of U.S. history; it also gave rise to some of the most sought-after modern coins.
The 7 rare quarters discussed here can fetch significant amounts, while the 5 others offer promising opportunities for collectors.
Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a casual hobbyist, inspecting your spare change or coin rolls might reveal one of these hidden treasures. Who knows? That quarter in your pocket could be worth a fortune!
FAQs
What makes State Quarters valuable?
State Quarters with minting errors, limited mintage, or unique features hold higher value among collectors.
How can I identify a rare State Quarter?
Look for mint errors such as doubling, cuds, or die cracks, and consult professional grading services for authentication.
Are State Quarters still in circulation?
Yes, many State Quarters remain in circulation, but finding rare variations can be a challenge. Keep an eye on your change!
