When you think of quarters, you probably don’t imagine them being worth more than 25 cents. But for collectors, certain state quarters with unique errors have made these coins highly valuable.
Some of these quarters have sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, all due to minor flaws from the minting process. If you enjoy hunting for rare finds, checking your change could be worth your while. Here’s a guide to some of the most fascinating state quarter errors and why collectors can’t get enough of them.
Top State Quarter Errors Worth Big Bucks
Errors can make these coins stand out. Whether it’s a double die or an unusual marking, collectors look for these details that set certain quarters apart. Here are eight state quarter errors that have captured the attention of coin collectors:
1. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter – Extra Low Leaf
This quarter, showcasing Wisconsin’s famous cheese and corn, became even more famous when an extra “leaf” appeared on the corn’s ear. This accidental addition from a minting tool error is now highly prized by collectors, with some selling for as much as $6,000.
2. 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter – Doubled Die Obverse
Featuring George Washington’s profile, some Washington D.C. quarters have a unique “doubled die” effect, causing a subtle shadow or echo in the image and text. This rare mistake fetched up to $3,055 at auction.
3. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter – Extra High Leaf
Like the low leaf error, this version has a leaf that appears higher on the corn. Some experts say it’s even rarer than the low-leaf version, with prices reaching over $2,500.
4. 1999-P Georgia State Quarter – Experimental Planchet
In an unusual mix-up, some Georgia quarters were struck using the blank for a Sacagawea dollar, giving them a distinct color and texture. This rare error added uniqueness to the coin, which sold for $2,160 in 2020.
5. 2005-P Minnesota State Quarter – Doubled Die Reverse
This quarter, depicting a serene fishing scene, sometimes shows a “doubled die” on the reverse side, creating an extra tree or shadow effect. In 2018, one of these quarters sold for around $660.
6. 2005-S Kansas State Quarter – Dented Bison
Known for its buffalo design, some Kansas quarters show a mysterious dent on the bison’s side. Although the exact cause is unknown, this quirky detail has made these coins a collector’s prize, valued at about $288.
5 Rare Coins That Wealthy Collectors Obsess Over—Each Worth More Than $1,000!
7. 1999-D Georgia State Quarter – Rotated Reverse
Some Georgia quarters feature a rotated reverse, where the peach design on the back doesn’t align with Washington’s profile on the front. This rotated design error adds uniqueness and value, with prices around $200.
8. 2007-P Wyoming State Quarter – Doubled Die Reverse
The Wyoming Quarter, showing a cowboy on horseback, has a doubled die error on the reverse side. Collectors love this rarity, as the extra stamping effect creates shadows, selling for around $168.
Tips for Spotting State Quarter Errors
Finding these valuable quarters can feel like a treasure hunt. The minting process is usually precise, but when mistakes slip through, it creates collectible coins. Here’s what to look for when examining your quarters:
- Unusual Colors: While quarters usually have a silver tone, coins with an unusual color (like a goldish tone) might be worth investigating.
- Shadows and Echoes: Look for slight shadowing in the images or text, which could mean a doubled die error.
- Unexpected Details: Familiarize yourself with each quarter’s design so you can spot any added details, like the extra leaf on the Wisconsin quarter or a dent on the Kansas bison.
- Check for Rotation: When you flip the quarter, the heads and tails should align. Any rotation might be a sign of a rare error.
- Missing Text: If any part of the text is missing or faint, it might be due to grease on the die, which can make the coin unique.
Rare Finds Alert: Top 3 Bicentennial Quarters That Could Earn You Hundreds!
Collecting for Fun and Profit
Collecting state quarters can be exciting, especially when you know the rare ones can add serious value. Keeping an eye out for mint errors can add a new level of challenge to your collection and turn an ordinary quarter into a valuable find.
The next time you receive a quarter in change, take a second look – you might just hold a little piece of treasure.