6 Rare State Quarters value is $549 Million USD : State quarters have become some of the most collected modern U.S. coins. While most are common and circulate with everyday change, certain rare state quarters can fetch thousands—even millions—due to minting errors, limited production, and collector demand. Below, we present a comprehensive guide to six rare state quarters that hold extraordinary value, detailing their unique attributes, values, and tips for identifying genuine pieces.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf High Quarter
- Estimated Value: $1,000 – $6,000+
- Mint: Denver
- Mint Error Type: Extra Leaf (High)
- What Makes It Rare:
- A noticeable extra corn husk leaf appears near the left side of the corn on the reverse.
- Believed to be a die gouge or possible intentional engraving during minting.
- Fewer than 7,000 estimated to exist.
- Auction Highlight: PCGS-graded MS66 example sold for $6,000 at Heritage Auctions.
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
- Estimated Value: $250 – $1,000+
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mint Error Type: Die crack
- What Makes It Valuable:
- A die crack causes what appears to be “spit” emerging from Caesar Rodney’s horse’s mouth.
- Popular among error collectors due to clear and visible defect.
- Tip:
- Check with a magnifier; the crack runs from the horse’s mouth toward the rim.
2005 Minnesota Double Die Quarter
- Estimated Value: $300 – $2,000+
- Mint: Philadelphia and Denver
- Mint Error Type: Double Die Reverse (DDR)
- Key Features:
- Multiple images of the extra tree between the two main evergreens on the reverse.
- Over 50 different die varieties discovered so far, adding intrigue and demand.
- Rarity & Appeal:
- The more pronounced the doubling, the higher the value—especially in Mint State condition.
1999 Georgia Off-Center Strike Quarter
- Estimated Value: $500 – $3,000+
- Mint: Philadelphia or Denver
- Error Type: Off-center strike
- What Collectors Love:
- Off-center errors are instantly recognizable and scarce.
- Ideal examples show 15%–30% off-center without loss of key design elements.
- Value Factors:
- Coin’s condition, percentage off-center, and visibility of the date all impact pricing.
2000-P South Carolina Double Die Quarter
- Estimated Value: $400 – $2,500+
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Error Type: Double Die Obverse and Reverse
- Details:
- Most visible on “South Carolina” lettering and the Palmetto tree.
- Rare in the wild—certified examples are most valuable.
- Authentication:
- Best confirmed by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS due to proliferation of look-alikes.
1999 Connecticut Broadstrike Quarter
- Estimated Value: $250 – $1,800+
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Error Type: Broadstrike (no reeding, expanded flan)
- Why It Matters:
- Lacks the standard reeded edge due to collar malfunction.
- Features full tree design with a flatter, wider profile.
- Collector’s Favorite:
- Demand is high for dramatic broadstrikes that leave the full design visible and intact.
Diagram: Rare State Quarters Classification
graph TD
A[Rare State Quarters] --> B[Minting Errors]
A --> C[Die Varieties]
A --> D[Striking Defects]
B --> E[Off-Center Strike - Georgia 1999]
B --> F[Broadstrike - Connecticut 1999]
C --> G[Double Die - Minnesota 2005]
C --> H[Double Die - South Carolina 2000]
D --> I[Extra Leaf - Wisconsin 2004]
D --> J[Spitting Horse - Delaware 1999]
How to Spot and Authenticate Rare State Quarters
1. Use High Magnification
Inspect details like lettering, leaf patterns, and trees. Die varieties are often subtle.
2. Weigh the Coin
Authentic state quarters should weigh 5.67 grams. Significant deviations may indicate minting errors or counterfeits.
3. Check for Professional Grading
Coins certified by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS provide confidence in authenticity and condition.
4. Compare to Known Error Images
Use collector forums or certified auction listings to compare your coin’s characteristics.
Where to Buy and Sell Rare State Quarters
Trusted Auction Platforms
- Heritage Auctions
- GreatCollections
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries
Online Marketplaces
- eBay (only certified coins recommended)
- Collectibles.com
- USACoinBook.com
Coin Shows and Dealers
- Attend regional or national ANA shows
- Visit dealers with ANA or PNG accreditation
Expert Tips for Collecting Rare State Quarters
- Always store coins in acid-free holders or certified slabs to prevent toning or damage.
- Keep a loupe and scale handy when searching through pocket change or bank rolls.
- Focus on uncirculated rolls from banks, especially from earlier State Quarter years.
- Join communities like CoinTalk, NGC Collectors Society, or PCGS Forum to stay informed on new discoveries.
A New Frontier in Modern Numismatics
Rare state quarters blend historical celebration with minting anomalies that drive significant collector demand. As we continue to discover new varieties and errors, the value of these quarters will only increase. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, these six examples are proof that big money hides in small change.