State quarters have captivated collectors since their introduction, with their distinctive designs and occasional errors creating rare and valuable finds. Some of these coins have risen dramatically in value, fetching thousands—and even over $500,000 in extreme cases. Whether it’s minting errors or exceptional condition, these state quarters are treasures worth seeking. Here’s a look at ten of the most valuable state quarters and what makes them so special.
Table of Contents
Delaware Quarter (1999)
The 1999 Delaware Quarter is famous for the “spitting horse” error, a visible die crack near the mouth of the horse depicted on the coin. This error is highly collectible, with pristine examples selling for $400 to $5,000 depending on condition and grading. As one of the first state quarters released, its historical significance adds to its appeal.
Wisconsin Quarter (2004)
This quarter is renowned for its “extra leaf” error, which appears as an additional high or low leaf on the corn stalk in the design. This die gouge error makes the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter a standout, with well-preserved examples commanding between $300 and $6,000.
Minnesota Quarter (2005)
The 2005 Minnesota Quarter features the “extra tree” error, caused by die doubling. This error adds an additional tree to the forested design, making it particularly valuable in top condition. Coins with this error can fetch between $200 and $3,500.
Georgia Quarter (1999)
Though it doesn’t have a specific error, the 1999 Georgia Quarter is prized for its rarity in high-grade condition. Collectors are willing to pay $100 to $2,500 for mint-state examples of this early state quarter release.
District of Columbia Quarter (2009)
The 2009 District of Columbia Quarter gained notoriety for its Duke Ellington design, and certain coins feature a doubled-die error. These rare finds can be worth $150 to $4,000, depending on their grade and the clarity of the error.
Pennsylvania Quarter (1999)
The Pennsylvania Quarter, also from the initial 1999 release, has become a collector favorite due to its scarcity in high grades. Coins in mint condition are valued between $80 and $2,000, even without specific errors.
New York Quarter (2001)
The 2001 New York Quarter, showcasing the Statue of Liberty and state outline, is another valuable piece. Its value stems from its popularity and rarity in high grades, with collectors paying $250 to $3,000 for well-preserved examples.
South Carolina Quarter (2000)
While it lacks prominent minting errors, the 2000 South Carolina Quarter is challenging to find in top condition. High-grade examples are sought after by collectors, with values ranging from $100 to $2,000.
Alaska Quarter (2008)
The 2008 Alaska Quarter features the fascinating “extra claw” error, where an additional claw appears on the bear in the design. This error makes it highly collectible, with values ranging from $300 to $2,500 for coins in excellent condition.
New Hampshire Quarter (2000)
The 2000 New Hampshire Quarter is valued for its rarity in mint-state grades. Though it doesn’t feature major errors, its condition and popularity contribute to its worth, with collectors paying between $100 and $1,500.
| Coin Name | Mint Location | Year | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Quarter | Philadelphia | 1999 | $400 – $5,000 |
| Wisconsin Quarter | Denver | 2004 | $300 – $6,000 |
| Minnesota Quarter | Philadelphia | 2005 | $200 – $3,500 |
| Georgia Quarter | Philadelphia | 1999 | $100 – $2,500 |
| District of Columbia | Denver | 2009 | $150 – $4,000 |
| Pennsylvania Quarter | Philadelphia | 1999 | $80 – $2,000 |
| New York Quarter | Denver | 2001 | $250 – $3,000 |
| South Carolina Quarter | Philadelphia | 2000 | $100 – $2,000 |
| Alaska Quarter | Denver | 2008 | $300 – $2,500 |
| New Hampshire Quarter | Philadelphia | 2000 | $100 – $1,500 |
Significant
State quarters offer a mix of artistry, history, and occasional errors, making them highly collectible. Their value can be influenced by rarity, condition, and demand. Even everyday change could hold hidden treasures, so examining your coins closely could uncover a valuable surprise.
FAQs
What is the ‘spitting horse’ error?
A die crack near the horse’s mouth on the 1999 Delaware Quarter.
Why is the Wisconsin Quarter valuable?
It features the rare ‘extra leaf’ error.
How can I spot the Minnesota ‘extra tree’ error?
Look for an additional tree caused by die doubling.
Which state quarter has the highest value?
Some 1999 Delaware Quarters can fetch up to $5,000.
What affects the value of state quarters?
Rarity, condition, and minting errors.
