It’s a fun hobby that can also help one learn about coins of greater value than their face. While most circulating quarters are worth only their face, there are many state quarters whose scarcity, error in minting, or overall condition make them very valuable to collectors. Here is a guide on some of the most valuable state quarters and why collectors pursue them.
1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
In 1999, the U.S. Mint experimented with various alloys for the Sacagawea dollar using quarters from Delaware and other states. These experimental planchets were minted in such small quantities that they are extremely rare.
A graded MS66 Delaware experimental alloy quarter sold at auction for a staggering $4,888. This coin is one of the most valuable from the Statehood Quarters program.
2003-D Maine State Quarter
Maine’s state quarter, issued in 2003, is relatively common in circulated condition but scarce in higher grades. Mint-state coins graded MS67 or better are extremely difficult to locate.
A near-perfect MS68 Maine quarter sold at auction in 2017 for $2,300, which shows the premium value of mint-state 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, a South Carolina quarter graded MS69 was valued at an incredible $8,000, illustrating its appeal among collectors.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter is known for a minting error: an extra leaf on the corn husk, which exists in two forms: “Low Leaf” and “High Leaf.”
A 2004-D Wisconsin quarter graded MS67 with the Low Leaf error brought $6,000 at auction in 2020, again showing the significance of error coins.
1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
This is another experimental Sacagawea planchet coin of Connecticut 1999, which contains a gold color and twice the thickness, with a smooth edge. This planchet error is very rare and highly sought after.
In 2018, a Connecticut quarter graded MS69 sold for $10,500, marking that state quarter as one of the most expensive ever sold to date.
1999-P Delaware State Quarter
As the first coin in the Statehood Quarters program, the Delaware quarter is a historical coin. Mint-state examples are highly prized, and an MS66 coin sold for $4,888 in 2008.
1999-P Pennsylvania MS67 Experimental Planchet
Pennsylvania’s 1999 quarter was also minted 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.
An MS68 North Dakota quarter sold in 2017 for $3,760, illustrating its rarity in the finest grades.
2004-P Texas State Quarter
The 2004 Texas quarter has made history with its “Grease Strike Through Error,” which causes specific design details to be absent because of grease on the coin die.
An error-free MS69 Texas quarter fetched $10,000. Mint state coins are valued in the thousands even when free of defects.
2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
The Denver minted version of the New Mexico quarter is more collectible than the Philadelphia version as the features are more defined and have a superior shine.
At levels MS67 or higher, these coins are extremely rare. Due to their rarity and high quality, they command significant prices in the market.
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.