The 2006 quarters, part of the 50 State Quarters Program, celebrate cultural and historical landmarks from Nevada, Nebraska, Colorado, North Dakota, and South Dakota. While most of these coins are worth face value, certain errors can turn them into valuable collectibles. Here’s a guide to the most notable 2006 quarter errors and their worth.
Table of Contents
1. Off-Center Strike Error
Off-center strikes occur when the die doesn’t hit the planchet in the center, resulting in an uneven image. The value of this error depends on how far off-center the strike is, with larger deviations being more valuable. A 2006-P Nebraska quarter graded MS62 with a 40% off-center strike sold for $920 on eBay in 2023.
2. Debris Struck-Through Error
Struck-through errors happen when foreign objects like cloth, hair, or metal interfere with the minting process, leaving impressions on the coin. A 2006-P South Dakota quarter graded MS62 with debris struck into the obverse sold for $735 at Heritage Auctions in 2022.
3. Die Break Error
Die breaks occur when pieces of the die chip off, creating raised marks or cracks on the coin’s surface. The rarity and size of the break influence the coin’s value. A 2006-D South Dakota quarter graded MS65 with die breaks on both sides sold for $750 at Heritage Auctions in 2022.
4. Rim Clash Error
A rim clash error is caused when the die’s serrations imprint onto the coin’s rim. This error is more visible on reeded coins like quarters. A 2006-P Colorado quarter graded MS63 with a rim clash error fetched $300 at a Great Collections auction in 2020.
5. Air Bubble Lamination Error
Lamination errors occur when layers of the coin’s cladding separate or bubble due to weak bonding. A 2006-D Nebraska quarter graded MS66 with an air bubble lamination error on the obverse sold for $1,320 on eBay in 2023, making it one of the most valuable in the series.
6. Rim Cud Error
A rim cud error appears as a raised bump on the coin’s edge due to a die defect. Larger cuds are more desirable. A 2006-P South Dakota quarter graded MS64 with a rim cud error sold for $540 at Heritage Auctions in 2022.
7. Broad-Struck Error
Broad strikes occur when the planchet is struck outside the retaining collar, causing the coin to have a wider diameter and thinner edges. A 2006-D North Dakota quarter graded MS63 with a broad-struck error sold for $1,220 on eBay in 2023.
8. Missing Clad Error
Missing clad errors expose the copper core of the coin due to a faulty cladding process. These errors can occur partially or on both sides. A 2006-D Colorado quarter graded MS64 with a partial missing clad error sold for $870 at Heritage Auctions in 2023.
9. Doubled Die Error
Doubled die errors result from a die striking the planchet multiple times at slightly different angles, creating overlapping or doubled features. A 2006-P North Dakota quarter graded MS65 with an obverse doubled die error sold for $1,005 at a Great Collections auction in 2023.
Why Are 2006 Quarter Errors Valuable?
- Rarity: Errors occur infrequently, making these coins highly collectible.
- Condition: Higher-grade coins (MS63 and above) command premium prices.
- Visual Appeal: Striking errors or unique imperfections increase a coin’s desirability.
Collecting error coins from the 2006 quarter series can be a fun and lucrative hobby. These coins not only highlight minting quirks but also add significant value to any collection.
FAQs
What is an off-center strike error?
It’s when the die strikes the planchet away from the center, causing an uneven design.
What causes a debris struck-through error?
Foreign objects interfere during minting, leaving marks on the coin.
How do lamination errors occur?
They occur when the coin’s cladding separates or bubbles due to weak bonding.
What is a broad-struck error?
It happens when a coin is struck outside the retaining collar, altering its shape.
Are doubled die errors valuable?
Yes, their rarity and distinctive overlapping designs make them highly sought after.
