Collecting state quarters is not only a fun and rewarding hobby but also an opportunity to observe coins worth much more than their face value. While most circulated quarters have little extra value, certain state quarters stand out for their rarity, minting errors, or exceptional condition. Here’s a guide to some of the most valuable state quarters and why they’re sought after by collectors.
Table of Contents
- 1 1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
- 2 2003-D Maine State Quarter
- 3 2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
- 4 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
- 5 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
- 6 1999-P Delaware State Quarter
- 7 1999-P Pennsylvania MS67 Experimental Planchet
- 8 2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
- 9 2004-P Texas State Quarter
- 10 2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
- 11 FAQs
1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
In 1999, the U.S. Mint tested different alloys for the Sacagawea dollar using quarters from Delaware and other states. These experimental planchets were minted in small numbers, making them extremely rare.
A graded MS66 Delaware experimental alloy quarter sold for a staggering $4,888 at auction. This coin remains one of the most valuable from the Statehood Quarters program.
2003-D Maine State Quarter
Maine’s state quarter, released in 2003, is common in circulated condition but rare in higher grades. Mint-state coins graded MS67 or better are exceptionally hard to find.
In 2017, a near-perfect MS68 Maine quarter fetched $2,300 at auction, underscoring the premium value of pristine examples.
2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
The 2000 South Carolina quarter is another rarity, especially in mint-state condition. High-grade examples, such as MS68 or MS69, are extremely rare.
In 2018, an MS69 South Carolina quarter achieved a remarkable $8,000 valuation, demonstrating its desirability among collectors.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter is famous for its minting error—an extra leaf on the corn husk, which appears in two variations: “Low Leaf” and “High Leaf.”
A 2004-D Wisconsin quarter with the Low Leaf error graded MS67 sold for $6,000 at auction in 2020, highlighting the value of error coins.
1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
Connecticut’s 1999 quarter is another experimental Sacagawea planchet coin, identifiable by its gold hue, thicker composition, and smooth edge. These planchet errors are rare and highly collectible.
In 2018, a Connecticut quarter graded MS69 sold for $10,500, making it one of the most expensive state quarters ever sold.
1999-P Delaware State Quarter
As the first coin in the Statehood Quarters program, the Delaware quarter holds historical significance. Mint-state examples are highly sought after, with an MS66 coin selling for $4,888 in 2008.
1999-P Pennsylvania MS67 Experimental Planchet
Pennsylvania’s 1999 quarter was also struck on experimental planchets. The rarity of these coins makes them a collector’s dream.
An MS67 example of this type has an estimated value of $2,520, according to the Numismatic Guaranty Company.
2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
Released in 2006, the North Dakota state quarter is relatively common in circulation but rare in mint-state grades of MS67 and above.
In 2017, an MS68 North Dakota quarter was sold for $3,760, reflecting its scarcity in top condition.
2004-P Texas State Quarter
The 2004 Texas quarter is notable for its “Grease Strike Through Error,” which results in missing design details due to grease on the coin die.
A perfect MS69 Texas quarter with no flaws sold for $10,000. Even without errors, mint-state examples are worth thousands.
2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
The Denver-minted New Mexico quarter is more desirable than its Philadelphia counterpart due to its sharper features and better finish.
At grades of MS67 or higher, these coins are exceedingly rare. Their scarcity and high quality make them valuable to collectors.
FAQs
Why are some state quarters valuable?
Rarity, mint errors, and high-grade conditions increase value.
What is an experimental planchet?
A test alloy used for minting coins like the Sacagawea dollar.
Which state quarter has the most errors?
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter with the Extra Leaf error.
How do I identify a minting error?
Look for anomalies like extra details or missing designs.
Are circulated state quarters worth anything?
Most are worth face value unless they have unique features.
