How Common-Looking Quarters Can Be Worth a Small Fortune
While most state quarters are worth face value, certain rare errors and varieties have sold for up to $30,000 at auction. Here’s how to identify these valuable modern coins in your pocket change.
Top 3 Most Valuable State Quarter Errors
1. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
Value: $30,000+ (MS65)
Why It’s Valuable:
- Two Varieties: “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” errors
- Rarity: Only 50,000 estimated to exist
- Key Feature: Extra leaf on corn stalk
Recent Sale: $32,900 (PCGS MS66, 2023)
2. 2005-P Minnesota “In God We Rust” Quarter
Value: $17,000+ (MS65)
What Makes It Special:
- Die Grease Error: “T” missing from “TRUST”
- Condition Rarity: Few preserved in mint state
- Popularity: One of most sought-after state quarter errors
Record Sale: $18,800 (NGC MS66, 2022)
3. 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
Value: 10,000−10,000−12,000 (MS65)
Key Attributes:
- Die Break Error: Appears as “spit” from horse’s mouth
- First State Quarter: Adds historical significance
- Population: Only 3 graded MS65+ by PCGS
Recent Auction: $12,075 (PCGS MS65, 2024)
How to Identify Valuable Errors
Step-by-Step Verification:
- Magnification Check (10x+):
- Look for extra design elements
- Check for missing/misplaced letters
- Edge Inspection:
- Some errors show collar cracks
- Weight Measurement:
- Should be 5.67g (±0.10g)
Red Flags of Fakes:
Tool marks near design elements
Wrong weight
Artificial doubling
Where to Find These Errors
Best Hunting Methods:
- Bank Rolls: $10 rolls of quarters
- Mint Sets: Original 1999-2008 packaging
- Coin Star Rejects: Check return slots
Success Story:
A collector found a 2004-D Extra Leaf in circulation – sold for $28,000
Professional Authentication
Why Certification Matters:
- PCGS/NGC graded coins sell for 3-5x more
- Error attribution increases value
- Population reports establish rarity
Grading Cost: 25−25−50 per coin
Where to Sell for Maximum Profit
Best Platforms:
| Value Range | Recommended Venue | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| $10k+ | Heritage Auctions | 15% |
| 1k−1k−10k | GreatCollections | 10% |
| <$1k | eBay (certified) | 12.9% |
Selling Tip: Use keywords like “error quarter” and “mint mistake”
Free Quarter Evaluation
Think you have a rare state quarter? Email clear photos to:
quarters@pennyverse.info
Subject: “STATE QUARTER ERROR”
We’ll provide:
Free error attribution
Current market valuation
Selling recommendations
