The U.S. Mint’s State Quarter Program (1999–2008) brought new excitement to coin collecting by featuring designs celebrating each state’s heritage. While most state quarters are worth only their face value, some error coins have become highly valuable collectibles, with certain rare examples fetching prices as high as $150 million. Let’s look into some of these incredible errors and what makes them so special.
Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)
The first in the State Quarters series is the 1999 Delaware Quarter, showing Caesar Rodney on horseback. But a minting error resulted in what collectors call the “Spitting Horse” variety, where a die crack creates a line extending from the horse’s mouth, as if it were spitting.
This quirky mistake has captured collectors’ attention, making it one of the most sought-after State Quarter errors.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
| Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
| Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
Wisconsin’s “Extra Leaf” Quarter (2004)
The 2004 Wisconsin Quarter honors the state’s agricultural heritage, featuring a cow, a cheese wheel, and a corn stalk. A mint error added an extra leaf to the corn stalk, with two variations:
Both variants of the extra leaf error are highly sought after by collectors, with values skyrocketing based on condition and rarity.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error Variants | High extra leaf and low extra leaf |
| Value | Significant premiums over face value |
| Collector Appeal | Highly desirable due to unique design error |
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)
The 2005 Kansas Quarter, featuring a bison and the state motto, was notorious for its “In God We Rust” error.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Missing “T” in “TRUST” due to a grease-filled die |
| Value | Significant premiums for uncirculated examples |
| Collector Appeal | Popular for its humorous and ironic error |
This has become a very popular collector’s item because of its unique flaw. It is one of those conversation pieces in the world of numismatics.
Other notable State Quarter Errors
Several other State Quarter errors have also become valuable:
| tate | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut (1999) | Broad strike (expanded coin size) | Over $1,000 |
| New Hampshire (2000) | Die crack through the design | Over $500 |
| Minnesota (2005) | Extra tree in the design | Over $1,000 |
| Georgia (1999) | Missing mint mark | Over $700 |
These errors point out the possibility of finding valuables in the everyday pocket change.
Factors Determining Value
The worth of error quarters will depend on several key factors below:
- Rarity: The fewer coins with the error, the higher the value.
- Condition: Coins in pristine condition fetch premium prices.
- Type of Error: Unique or dramatic errors, such as extra design elements or missing letters, are more sought after.
- Demand among Collectors: Popularity of the coin series and type of error will impact the market value.
How to Identify Valuable Error Quarters
If you’re going through your collection or roll for State Quarters worth money, do the following:
Check the Design: Look for unusual features, extra details, or missing features.
- Key States to Concentrate on: Focus on Delaware (1999), Wisconsin (2004), and Kansas (2005).
- Use Proper Lighting: Good lighting is required to reveal slight errors.
- Compare Coins: Check against known images of valuable errors.
Selling Valuable Quarters
If you feel you have discovered an error coin worth money:
- Handle with Care: Do not clean the coin as this may reduce its value.
- Store Properly: Use protective holders to avoid damage.
- Authenticate: Have the coin professionally graded by services such as PCGS or NGC.
- Consult Dealers: Use reputable coin dealers or auction houses for accurate valuation and sales.
Why Collect Error State Quarters?
The State Quarters program offers a fascinating look at U.S. history and regional pride. Adding the thrill of error coins makes collecting even more exciting. These rare mistakes are not only valuable but also serve as unique artifacts of the minting process, reflecting the human element behind America’s coinage.
Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or just a casual enthusiast, hunting for error quarters adds an exciting dimension to coin collecting. While finding a $150 million “Spitting Horse” quarter might be rare, the search itself is a rewarding experience—and who knows, you just might know a hidden gem in your loose change.
FAQs:
What is the ‘Spitting Horse’ error?
A die crack on the 1999 Delaware Quarter creates a line near the horse’s mouth.
What makes the Wisconsin ‘Extra Leaf’ quarter valuable?
An added leaf on the corn stalk design is a unique mint error.