While most U.S. quarters are only worth their face value of 25 cents, some rare U.S. state quarters are worth significantly more. In this guide, we’ll explore which modern state quarters are worth keeping and how much they can be valued at. If you’re a coin collector or just curious, these are the top rare state quarters you should be on the lookout for!
1. 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter: $10 to $20
The 1999-P Delaware quarter is known for its famous “Spitting Horse” error. This error occurs when a raised line appears from the horse’s mouth to the word “CAESAR” due to a die break. This quirky mistake makes the coin more valuable, and it can be worth between $10 and $20 today.
2. 2004-D Extra Leaf Wisconsin Quarter: $50 to $65
This quarter comes in two rare varieties known as the Extra High Leaf and Extra Low Leaf errors. These additional leaves are found on the corn stalk on the coin’s reverse side. While these coins once sold for over $500, they now typically sell for $50 to $65 in circulated condition.
3. 2005-P Minnesota Doubled Dies Quarter: $5 to $100
The 2005-P Minnesota quarter is famous for having over 60 varieties of doubled dies, which result in extra spruce trees on the reverse side. The most noticeable versions are valued between $50 and $100, while less prominent errors can sell for $5 to $25.
4. 2009-D District of Columbia Doubled Die Quarter: $75
Featuring Duke Ellington on the reverse, the 2009-D District of Columbia quarter has a doubled die error on the letters “ELL” in Ellington’s name and on some of the piano keys. Initially, these coins sold for hundreds of dollars, but they now typically trade for around $75.
5. 1999-S Pennsylvania Proof Silver Quarter: $35
This 1999 Pennsylvania quarter was released as a proof coin, minted specifically for collectors. Made of 90% silver, these proof coins are highly prized for their reflective surfaces and sharp details. In good condition, they can sell for $35 or more.
6. 1999-S New Jersey Proof Silver Quarter: $30
Another valuable proof coin is the 1999-S New Jersey state quarter, which depicts George Washington leading soldiers across the Delaware River. Like the Pennsylvania proof, it’s made of 90% silver and can sell for around $30 in perfect condition.
Honorable Mentions
While the coins listed above are the rarest and most valuable, other state quarters are worth noting. Below is a table highlighting key dates and mintage numbers for additional noteworthy state quarters:
| Date & Mintmark | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1999-D New Jersey | 299,028,000 |
| 2000-D South Carolina | 566,208,000 |
| 2001-D New York | 619,640,000 |
| 2003-P Maine | 217,400,000 |
| 2005-D West Virginia | 356,200,000 |
Conclusion
State quarters are a popular collectible, and while most are worth only their face value, some rare varieties can be worth much more. Keep an eye out for these valuable coins in your pocket change—you might find a hidden gem! Whether it’s the 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” quarter or the 2004-D Extra Leaf Wisconsin quarter, these coins can fetch a good price if they’re in good condition.
FAQs
How can I identify a valuable state quarter?
Look for error coins like the Spitting Horse or doubled dies. You can also consult coin guides or a professional numismatist for assistance.
Are all state quarters worth money?
No, most state quarters are worth only their face value. Only rare errors or proof coins carry additional value.
What is the Spitting Horse quarter?
The 1999 Delaware quarter features a die break that makes it look like the horse is spitting, which adds value to the coin.
What is a proof quarter?
Proof quarters are specially minted for collectors, featuring sharp details and polished surfaces. They are often made of silver and are worth more than regular circulating coins.
Where can I sell rare state quarters?
You can sell rare quarters at coin shops, through online auction sites, or directly to collectors.
Keep an eye out for these rare and valuable quarters—you never know when you might stumble across one worth much more than its face value!
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