The U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program (1999-2008) produced some of America’s most collectible coins—and a few rare editions now fetch up to $10,500 at auctions. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just checking your spare change, this guide reveals which state quarters are worth a fortune, how to spot errors, and where to sell valuable finds.
Why Are Some State Quarters So Valuable?
While most state quarters are worth just 25 cents, a handful command premium prices due to:
✔ Low mintage numbers (fewer coins = higher rarity)
✔ Minting errors (misprints, double strikes, off-center designs)
✔ Perfect condition (MS-70 grade) – Uncirculated coins with zero flaws
✔ Silver proof editions (special 90% silver versions)
Top 10 Most Valuable State Quarters (1999-2008)
1. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter ($10,500+)
- Key Feature: Extra cornstalk leaf on the left side (high or low variety)
- Error Type: Die break during minting
- Average Value: $300–$1,500 (up to $10,500 for MS-67 graded coins)
2. 2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter ($5,000+)
- Key Feature: Visible doubling on “Land of 10,000 Lakes” text
- Error Type: Misaligned die strike
- Average Value: $200–$1,200 (up to $5,000 for high grades)
3. 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter ($3,000+)
- Key Feature: Appears as if the horse is “spitting” due to a die crack
- Error Type: Metal flow imperfection
- Average Value: $500–$1,800 (up to $3,000 for pristine examples)
4. 2001-P New York Double Die Obverse Quarter ($2,500+)
- Key Feature: Duplicated lettering on “Gateway to Freedom”
- Error Type: Misaligned die during pressing
- Average Value: $150–$800 (up to $2,500 for MS-65+)
5. 2007-P Wyoming Doubled Die Quarter ($2,000+)
- Key Feature: Clearly doubled “Equality State” motto
- Error Type: Mechanical doubling error
- Average Value: $100–$600 (up to $2,000 for top-graded coins)
6. 2000-P South Carolina Extra Tree Quarter ($1,500+)
- Key Feature: Additional palm tree branch near the outline
- Error Type: Over-polished die flaw
- Average Value: $80–$400 (up to $1,500 for MS-66+)
7. 2003-P Illinois Misaligned Die Quarter ($1,200+)
- Key Feature: Off-center Abraham Lincoln portrait
- Error Type: Improper die alignment
- Average Value: $50–$300 (up to $1,200 for severe misalignments)
8. 2006-P Nevada Clipped Planchet Quarter ($1,000+)
- Key Feature: Crescent-shaped cut from incomplete metal blank
- Error Type: Planchet clipping during production
- Average Value: $75–$250 (up to $1,000 for dramatic clips)
9. 2008-P Oklahoma Cud Error Quarter ($800+)
- Key Feature: Blob-like raised metal on the state bird’s wing
- Error Type: Die break creating a “cud” defect
- Average Value: $40–$200 (up to $800 for prominent cuds)
10. 2002-P Ohio Missing Letters Quarter ($600+)
- Key Feature: Faint or absent “Birthplace of Aviation” text
- Error Type: Filled die error
- Average Value: $30–$150 (up to $600 for extreme cases)
How to Check Your Quarters for Hidden Value
1. Inspect for Errors
- Use a 10x magnifier to spot doubling, cracks, or missing details.
- Compare with reference images from PCGS or NGC grading sites.
2. Assess Condition
- Uncirculated coins (no scratches/wear) fetch the highest prices.
- Graded coins (MS-65+) sell for exponentially more than raw coins.
3. Verify Silver Proofs
- Weigh your quarter: Silver proofs are heavier (6.25g vs. 5.67g).
- Look for mirror-like finishes and “S” mint marks (San Francisco).
Where to Sell Rare State Quarters
- eBay (best for error coins; 10–15% seller fees)
- Heritage Auctions (ideal for high-value graded coins)
- Local coin dealers (quick sales but lower offers)
- PCGS/NGC-certified coins command 20–50% premiums
FAQs About Valuable State Quarters
Q1: Are all state quarters from 1999-2008 worth money?
No—only specific errors, low-mintage issues, or proofs have significant value.
Q2: How can I tell if my Wisconsin quarter has the extra leaf?
The high leaf touches the corn husk; the low leaf points downward.
Q3: Do banks still have rare state quarters?
Yes! Hunt through customer-rolled coin or ask for unsearched bags.
Q4: Should I clean my old quarters to increase value?
Never clean coins—it destroys surfaces and reduces value by 90%+.
Q5: What’s the rarest state quarter ever found?
A 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf (MS-67) sold for $10,500 in 2023.
Conclusion: Start Coin Hunting Today!
With millions of state quarters still in circulation, your pocket change could hide a $1,000+ treasure. Focus on error coins, silver proofs, and top-graded examples, and consider professional grading for high-value finds.
Next Steps:
✔ Sort through old coin jars for key dates/errors
✔ Invest in a magnifier and scale for closer inspection
✔ Join coin forums (like Reddit’s r/coins) for expert help
For certified valuations, submit coins to:
- PCGS (www.pcgs.com)
- NGC (www.ngccoin.com)
Happy hunting—your rare quarter could be the next big discovery!
Need Immediate Help?
- PCGS Customer Service: 1-800-447-8848
- NGC Support: 1-800-642-2646
- American Numismatic Association: www.money.org