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.
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Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)
The 1999 Delaware Quarter, the first in the State Quarters series, features Caesar Rodney on horseback. However, 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, resembling spit.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
| Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
| Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
This quirky mistake has captured collectors’ attention, making it one of the most sought-after State Quarter errors.
Wisconsin’s “Extra Leaf” Quarter (2004)
The 2004 Wisconsin Quarter, celebrating the state’s agricultural heritage, features a cow, a cheese wheel, and a corn stalk. 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 |
Both variants of the extra leaf error are prized by collectors, with values climbing significantly based on condition and rarity.
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)
The 2005 Kansas Quarter, showcasing a bison and the state motto, became infamous 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 mistake has captured widespread attention for its unique flaw, making it a conversation piece in the numismatic world.
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 |
These errors highlight the potential for valuable discoveries in everyday change.
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: Coins in pristine condition fetch premium prices.
- Error Type: Unique or dramatic errors, like extra design elements or missing letters, are more desirable.
- Collector Demand: Popularity of the coin series and error type impacts market value.
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: Look for unusual features, extra elements, or missing details.
- Focus on Key States: Pay special attention to Delaware (1999), Wisconsin (2004), and Kansas (2005).
- Use Proper Lighting: Good lighting helps reveal subtle errors.
- Compare Coins: Check against known images of valuable errors.
Selling Valuable Quarters
If you believe you’ve found a valuable error coin:
- Handle Carefully: Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can decrease its value.
- Store Properly: Use protective holders to prevent damage.
- Authenticate: Have the coin professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult Dealers: Work with 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’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual enthusiast, hunting for error quarters adds an engaging 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.
Why is ‘In God We Rust’ an error?
A grease-filled die caused the ‘T’ in ‘Trust’ to be missing.
How do I protect valuable quarters?
Store them in protective holders and avoid cleaning.
Are all State Quarters valuable?
Most are worth face value, but rare errors can be highly collectible.
