State quarters may seem ordinary, but a select few are worth far more than their face value. Some feature mint errors, were struck on experimental planchets, or exist in pristine mint conditions, making them rare treasures for collectors. Here’s a list of the most valuable state quarters and what makes them so special.
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Delaware
The 1999-P Delaware State Quarter was the first in the Statehood Quarter Program, making it historically significant. While many were saved, mint-condition examples are rare. One graded MS66 sold for $4,888, proving its enduring popularity among collectors.
Maine
The 2003-D Maine State Quarter minted in Denver is an elusive gem in top condition. Circulated coins are common, but an MS68-grade version fetched $2,300 in 2017, highlighting its rarity.
South Carolina
The 2000-P South Carolina State Quarter stands out for its value in high grades. Coins graded MS69 are incredibly scarce. One such coin was valued at $8,000 in 2018, making it a highly sought-after piece.
Wisconsin
The 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter with an “extra leaf” mint error is a collector’s dream. Both “low leaf” and “high leaf” variants are rare. A low-leaf coin graded MS67 sold for $6,000 in 2020, cementing its status as one of the most valuable error coins.
Connecticut
The 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter was part of the experimental Sacagawea alloy trials, making it exceptionally rare. With a distinct gold hue and smooth edge, an MS69-grade coin sold for a whopping $10,500 in 2018.
Pennsylvania
Similar to the Connecticut coin, the 1999-P Pennsylvania State Quarter was struck on an experimental planchet. Coins graded MS67 are valued at $2,520 due to their scarcity and historical significance.
North Dakota
The 2006-D North Dakota State Quarter is rare in mint condition. An MS68-grade coin sold for $3,760 in 2017, illustrating how pristine examples stand out among collectors.
Texas
The 2004-P Texas State Quarter with a grease-strike-through error is another rare find. Even without the error, an MS69-grade Texas quarter can fetch $3,055. A coin with the error was auctioned for $10,000.
New Mexico
The 2008-D New Mexico State Quarter minted in Denver is particularly valuable in mint condition. Coins graded MS67 or higher are exceptionally scarce, making them prized possessions for any collection.
What Makes Quarters Valuable?
The value of a quarter is often determined by rarity, minting errors, and condition. Coins with unusual features, such as grease-strike errors or experimental alloy compositions, hold particular appeal for collectors. Mint-state coins, especially in grades MS67 and higher, are highly sought after for their pristine quality.
Collecting state quarters can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re chasing experimental planchets or hunting for mint-condition gems, these coins remind us that treasure can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.
FAQs
Which state quarter is worth the most?
The 1999-P Connecticut state quarter, valued up to $10,500, is the most valuable.
What are mint error quarters?
Mint error quarters have flaws during production, like extra design elements.
How do I find out a quarter’s value?
Get it graded by a professional service like PCGS for accurate appraisal.
Are state quarters still in circulation?
Yes, but most in circulation are worth only their face value.
What is a Sacagawea planchet?
It’s an experimental coin blank used for testing metal compositions.
