The 50 State Quarters Program, launched by the U.S. Mint between 1999 and 2008, introduced unique designs representing each state. While most of these quarters are common, certain rare variations and errors have made specific coins highly valuable.
A few of these quarters, still potentially found in circulation, can be worth over $5,000. This article highlights five such state quarters, detailing their unique features and estimated values.
1. 1999-P Delaware Experimental Planchet Quarter
In 1999, during the initial phase of the State Quarters Program, the U.S. Mint experimented with different metal alloys for the upcoming Sacagawea dollar. Some Delaware quarters were mistakenly struck on these experimental planchets, resulting in a unique appearance.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” (Philadelphia)
- Design: Depicts Caesar Rodney on horseback
- Error: Struck on an experimental planchet, giving the coin a distinct coloration
Estimated Value: One such coin, graded MS66, sold for $4,888 at auction. Coins in higher grades could potentially fetch more.
2. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter features an image of a cow, a round of cheese, and an ear of corn. Some coins minted in Denver exhibit an extra leaf on the corn husk, either pointing up (“High Leaf”) or down (“Low Leaf”), due to a die error.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “D” (Denver)
- Design: Agricultural motifs representing Wisconsin
- Error: Extra leaf on the corn husk
Estimated Value: A “Low Leaf” variety graded MS67 was auctioned for $6,000.
3. 1999-P Georgia Experimental Planchet Quarter
Similar to the Delaware quarter, some Georgia quarters were struck on experimental planchets intended for the Sacagawea dollar. These coins have a distinct appearance and are extremely rare.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” (Philadelphia)
- Design: Peach, live oak sprigs, and the state outline
- Error: Struck on an experimental planchet, resulting in a unique coloration
Estimated Value: These coins have been reported to sell for between $5,000 and $7,000, depending on their condition.
4. 2000-P South Carolina Quarter with Die Errors
The South Carolina quarter, released in 2000, has seen instances of die errors, including doubling and misstrikes. While not all errors are highly valuable, certain significant errors can increase a coin’s worth substantially.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” (Philadelphia)
- Design: Outline of the state with symbols like the Carolina wren and palmetto tree
- Error: Various die errors, including doubling
Estimated Value: Depending on the severity and rarity of the error, some coins have been valued at over $5,000.
5. 1999-P Connecticut Experimental Planchet Quarter
As part of the experimental planchet series, some Connecticut quarters were struck on planchets intended for the Sacagawea dollar, resulting in a unique appearance and increased value.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: “P” (Philadelphia)
- Design: The Charter Oak
- Error: Struck on an experimental planchet, giving the coin a distinct coloration
Estimated Value: A 1999-P Connecticut quarter graded MS69 was sold for $10,500.
Summary of Valuable State Quarters
| Year | State | Mint Mark | Error/Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Delaware | P | Experimental Planchet | $4,888 |
| 2004 | Wisconsin | D | Extra Leaf (Low/High) | $6,000 |
| 1999 | Georgia | P | Experimental Planchet | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| 2000 | South Carolina | P | Die Errors (e.g., Doubling) | $5,000+ |
| 1999 | Connecticut | P | Experimental Planchet | $10,500 |
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on the coin’s condition and market demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know if my state quarter is valuable?
Check the mint mark, year, and look for known errors such as extra leaves or doubling. Rare planchet errors can also increase value. Consulting a professional grading service can provide an accurate assessment.
2. Where can I sell valuable state quarters?
Valuable quarters can be sold through coin dealers, online marketplaces (like eBay), or at coin shows. For maximum return, consider selling at a reputable auction house that specializes in rare coins.
3. Are all state quarters worth more than face value?
No, most state quarters are only worth 25 cents. However, rare error coins and high-grade mint condition quarters can be worth thousands.
4. What is the significance of experimental planchet quarters?
Experimental planchet quarters were part of testing for different metal compositions during the early years of the State Quarters Program. These errors are extremely rare and highly valuable to collectors.
5. Should I get my quarter professionally graded?
Yes, if you believe your quarter has a rare mint error or is in near-perfect condition, professional grading can validate its authenticity and potentially increase its resale value.
Finding a state quarter worth over $5,000 in circulation is rare but not impossible. Coins like the 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter or the 1999-P Delaware Experimental Planchet Quarter demonstrate how certain errors and minting anomalies can transform everyday change into a small fortune.
