Introduction
During the State Quarter Program (1999–2008) by the U.S. Mint coins captured public interest through the showcase of state heritage designs. While most state quarters have no additional monetary worth beyond their face value certain rare error coins command very high prices and have reached values exceeding $150 million. Many outstanding errors from this coin program exist as we analyze specific ones alongside what makes them unique.
Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)

The 1999 Delaware Quarter, the first in the State Quarters series, features Caesar Rodney on horseback. The mint suspended production when a die crack appeared on the horse’s mouth to create what error coin enthusiasts refer to as the “Spitting Horse” variation.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
Because of its whimsical defect this unique mistake commands high attention from State Quarter collectors thus becoming one of the most in-demand errors.
Wisconsin’s “Extra Leaf” Quarter (2004)

Featuring a cow and a cheese wheel together with a corn stalk the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter showcases Wisconsin’s historical agrarian practices. A mint error added an extra leaf to the corn stalk, with two variations:
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 |
The different versions of the extra leaf error remain popular among collectors while their value grows significantly toward better condition and increased rarity.
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)

The “In God We Rust” inscription on the 2005 Kansas Quarter became renowned as a major minting mistake while presenting a bison and the state motto evaluation.
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 |
The numismatic world provides special attention to this peculiar error which serves as an interesting artifact in places where collectible coins are discussed.
Other Notable State Quarter Errors
Several other State Quarter errors have also become valuable:
State | 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 |
Errors found in everyday change demonstrate the potential value of identifying significant discoveries.
Factors Determining Value
The value of error quarters depends on several key factors:
- Rarity: The fewer coins with the error, the higher the value.
- Condition: Collector demand pushes the prices of error coins which remain in highly preserved states even higher.
- Error Type: Errors featuring extraordinary features or missing lettering elements acquire superior market value.
- Collector Demand: The market evaluation of coins depends heavily on both their popularity within specific series and the specific error conditions they possess.
How to Spot Valuable Error Quarters
If you’re searching for valuable State Quarters in your collection or change, follow these steps:
- Inspect the Design: Check the currency for abnormal elements together with surplus design parts or vanished information on the coin.
- Focus on Key States: Make sure to give Delaware (1999) Wisconsin (2004) and Kansas (2005) your highest attention.
- Use Proper Lighting: The behavior of subtle mistakes becomes visible under appropriate illumination.
- Compare Coins: View the coin against certified photographs of rare mistakes.
Selling Valuable Quarters
If you believe you’ve found a valuable error coin:
- Handle Carefully: Cleansing the coin can reduce its monetary worth so you should refrain from all cleaning efforts.
- Store Properly: Protective holders serve as a barrier against damaging accidents.
- Authenticate: You should submit your coin to PCGS or NGC for their expert professional grading service.
- Consult Dealers: To obtain fair valuation and perform sales you must utilize reputable coin dealers or auction houses.
Why Collect Error State Quarters?
Through the State Quarters program U.S. history and state pride emerge in fascinating ways. Seekers of error coins will find that coin collection becomes an even more thrilling experience. These scarce mistakes hold economic value while showcasing individual minting contributions which shaped America’s currency production.
If you consider yourself a coin collector but also want to increase your excitement level then searching for error quarters is definitely something you should try. Searching for a “$150 million ‘Spitting Horse’ value quarter is challenging but researching these errors proves enjoyable since your random change may hold a valuable discovery.
Conclusion
Rare state quarters hold an entertaining appeal that brings significant financial value to collectors’ silvers. These three coins namely 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf and the 1999 Delaware Wide Rim along with 2005 Minnesota Extra Tree Branch create enormous potential value for collectors. These coins becoming increasingly sought after evidence that rare state quarters enlist ongoing interest from international coin collectibles enthusiasts.
FAQ’s
What gives the Wisconsin ‘Extra Leaf’ quarter its monetary value?
An added leaf on the corn stalk design is a unique mint error.
Why is ‘In God We Rust’ an error?
A grease-filled die caused the ‘T’ in ‘Trust’ to be missing.
What is the ‘Spitting Horse’ error?
A die crack on the 1999 Delaware Quarter creates a line near the horse’s mouth.