The U.S. Mint’s State Quarter program, launched in 1999, quickly became popular among collectors, showcasing the heritage and identity of each state. Yet, within this series, certain quarters stand out as particularly valuable due to minting errors or limited production. Here are ten of the rarest state quarters you might still find in circulation, each carrying unique characteristics that boost their collector value.
1. 1999 Delaware Quarter – “Spitting Horse” Error
As the first quarter released in the State Quarter program, the 1999 Delaware quarter gained fame for an error known as the “spitting horse.” This error, a die crack near the horse’s mouth on the reverse, makes it look as though the horse is spitting. Due to its uniqueness, this coin can fetch a considerable price.
- Estimated Value: Up to $5,000
2. 1999 Pennsylvania Quarter – Double Die Reverse
The 1999 Pennsylvania quarter features a “Double Die Reverse” error, where the letters on the reverse appear doubled. This rare variation attracts collectors who are willing to pay a premium to own this distinct misprint.
- Estimated Value: Up to $1,000
3. 2000 New Hampshire Quarter – “Hanging Old Man” Error
The 2000 New Hampshire quarter has a peculiar die crack known as the “Hanging Old Man” error. This defect gives the appearance of a rope around the famous “Old Man of the Mountain” rock formation depicted on the coin. This intriguing error adds value for collectors.
- Estimated Value: Up to $500
4. 2000 South Carolina Quarter – Doubling on “South”
A rare error on the 2000 South Carolina quarter shows doubling in the word “South.” This subtle variation significantly enhances the coin’s desirability, making it a prized find for collectors.
- Estimated Value: Up to $250
5. 2001 Kentucky Quarter – Horse Doubling Error
The 2001 Kentucky quarter includes a sought-after “Horse Doubling Error,” where doubling appears in the horse’s mane on the reverse side. This unique defect adds significant collector appeal.
- Estimated Value: Up to $300
6. 2004 Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Leaf Error
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter is one of the most famous error quarters, featuring the “extra leaf” variety. There are two variations of this error: one with an “extra high leaf” and another with an “extra low leaf” near the corn stalk on the coin’s reverse. Both versions are worth well above face value.
- Estimated Value: Up to $1,500
7. 2005 Minnesota Quarter – Double Die Error
Known for a “Double Die” error, the 2005 Minnesota quarter features doubling in the background trees. Some coins display slight doubling, while rarer versions have multiple trees doubled, with these variations fetching higher prices.
- Estimated Value: Up to $300
8. 2006 Colorado Quarter – Cud Error
A rare “Cud Error” on the 2006 Colorado quarter appears as a die crack along the mountains on the coin’s reverse. This defect, which creates a raised area resembling an extra part of the mountain, has made this quarter highly collectible.
- Estimated Value: Up to $250
9. 2008 Hawaii Quarter – Double Die Error
On the 2008 Hawaii quarter, a “Double Die Error” causes doubling in the word “Hawaii.” This relatively recent error is still rare and valuable, drawing interest from collectors.
- Estimated Value: Up to $500
10. 2009 District of Columbia Quarter – Ellington Misspelling
The 2009 District of Columbia quarter, featuring jazz legend Duke Ellington, has an error with the misspelling of “Ellington.” Known as the “Ellington Error,” this mistake has made the coin highly sought after by collectors.
- Estimated Value: Up to $1,000
| Quarter | Error Type | Estimated Value | Year of Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Delaware | Spitting Horse | Up to $5,000 | 1999 |
| 1999 Pennsylvania | Double Die Reverse | Up to $1,000 | 1999 |
| 2000 New Hampshire | Hanging Old Man | Up to $500 | 2000 |
| 2000 South Carolina | Doubling on “South” | Up to $250 | 2000 |
| 2001 Kentucky | Horse Doubling Error | Up to $300 | 2001 |
| 2004 Wisconsin | Extra Leaf Error | Up to $1,500 | 2004 |
| 2005 Minnesota | Double Die Error | Up to $300 | 2005 |
| 2006 Colorado | Cud Error | Up to $250 | 2006 |
| 2008 Hawaii | Double Die Error | Up to $500 | 2008 |
| 2009 District of Columbia | Ellington Misspelling | Up to $1,000 | 2009 |
Tips for Finding Rare State Quarters
If you’re hoping to find one of these valuable state quarters, patience and a keen eye are key. Here are some ways to boost your chances:
- Check Your Change: Valuable quarters sometimes slip back into circulation. Be diligent in checking your pocket change for any potential rare finds.
- Visit Coin Shops and Shows: Coin shops and shows often have dealers who specialize in rare coins and error varieties. These venues can be great places to learn more about quarters and possibly find what you’re looking for.
- Use a Magnifying Glass: Many of these errors are small and difficult to see with the naked eye. A magnifying glass can help you spot doubling, die cracks, and other unique characteristics.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, examining your quarters could lead to a lucky discovery. These rare state quarters, valued for both their historical and numismatic significance, offer collectors a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of coin production and the potential for unexpected treasures.
FAQs
Q: Are all state quarters valuable?
A: No, most state quarters are worth their face value, but certain error coins or rare varieties can be worth significantly more.
Q: How can I tell if a state quarter is valuable?
A: Look for minting errors such as doubling, die cracks, or extra details on the coin. A magnifying glass and an online guide or appraiser can help confirm the coin’s rarity.
Q: Can I find valuable state quarters in circulation?
A: Yes, it’s possible to find rare quarters in circulation, although it requires patience. Many valuable error quarters were released into general circulation by accident.
Q: Where can I sell a rare state quarter?
A: You can sell rare quarters at coin shops, auctions, or through online marketplaces. Make sure to have your coin appraised to understand its value first.
Q: Do error quarters increase in value over time?
A: Yes, in many cases, error quarters appreciate in value due to their rarity and demand among collectors. However, market conditions can affect prices.