Since 1999, the United States Mint has released state quarters as part of the 50 State Quarters Program. These quarters have gained popularity among collectors due to their unique designs, featuring important symbols from each state. While most state quarters are worth just 25 cents, a few rare ones can be worth thousands—or even millions—due to minting errors or special features. This guide will highlight the top 8 state quarters that could turn your pocket change into a potential fortune.
1. Delaware Quarter (1999) – Spitting Horse Error
The Delaware quarter, released in 1999, features a famous image of Caesar Rodney on horseback. However, some of these coins have a rare “spitting horse” error caused by a die crack. This error makes it appear as though the horse is “spitting,” which makes these quarters much more valuable. Depending on the severity of the error, the value can range from $100 to $20,000.
2. Wisconsin Quarter (2004) – Extra Leaf (High/Low)
The Wisconsin quarter, issued in 2004, shows a cow, cheese, and an ear of corn. Some of these coins have a special feature—an extra leaf on the corn stalk. There are two versions of this error: the “high leaf” and “low leaf” variety. This small mistake has made these coins highly collectible, with their value ranging from $300 to $10,000.
3. Kansas Quarter (2005) – “In God We Rust” Error
The Kansas quarter, released in 2005, features a buffalo and sunflowers. A notable minting error on some coins caused the state motto, “In God We Trust,” to appear as “In God We Rust.” This error makes the coin very rare and valuable, and it can fetch anywhere from $50 to $3,000 depending on its condition.
4. Minnesota Quarter (2005) – Extra Tree Error
The Minnesota quarter, also issued in 2005, shows the state’s famous lakes and forests. Some of these coins have an extra tree in the design, which was caused by a minting mistake. This error makes the coin much more valuable to collectors, with prices ranging from $150 to $5,000 for those with the extra tree feature.
5. Connecticut Quarter (1999) – Doubled-Die Error
The Connecticut quarter, released in 1999, features the Charter Oak. A small number of these quarters were made with a doubled-die error, which causes certain details on the coin to appear doubled. This error makes them worth much more than regular Connecticut quarters, with prices ranging from $200 to $10,000.
6. Arizona Quarter (2008) – Design Alteration Error
The Arizona quarter, released in 2008, depicts the Grand Canyon with a saguaro cactus. Some of these coins have a design alteration error where parts of the design appear missing or altered. These quarters are highly prized among collectors, with values ranging from $100 to $8,000.
7. Georgia Quarter (1999) – Lettering/Design Error
The Georgia quarter, issued in 1999, displays the state’s peach emblem. Some of these quarters have errors in the design or lettering, making them rare finds. Coins with these types of mistakes can be worth anywhere from $50 to $3,500, depending on the severity of the error.
8. Tennessee Quarter (2002) – Misalignment/Double Design Error
Released in 2002, the Tennessee quarter features musical instruments to represent the state’s rich musical history. Some of these quarters were minted with misalignments or doubling in the design, which makes them more valuable to collectors. These errors can make the coins worth from $50 to $2,500.
Conclusion
Though state quarters were produced in large numbers, certain coins have become highly valuable due to minting errors or unique features. These rare state quarters, such as the Delaware “spitting horse” and the Wisconsin “extra leaf,” could be worth thousands or even millions of dollars. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these rare coins in your pocket change, it’s a good idea to have it appraised by a coin expert to determine its true value. Collecting state quarters with errors can be an exciting hobby and potentially a rewarding investment.
Guilderland Historical Society
FAQs
Why are some state quarters worth more than face value?
Some state quarters have minting errors or unique features that make them rare and valuable to collectors.
How can I tell if my state quarter is valuable?
Look for minting errors, design mistakes, or rare features like extra leaves, misaligned designs, or doubled lettering.
Can rare state quarters make me a millionaire?
Yes, some rare state quarters are worth thousands or even millions, depending on their rarity and condition.