10 State Quarters With Errors That Fetch Big Prices

What if that quarter in your pocket is worth thousands of dollars? The U.S. State Quarter program, launched in 1999, turned everyday coins into collector’s items.

While most state quarters are worth their face value, rare ones with unique errors or limited production can fetch big money.

Let’s dive into the top 10 rare state quarters and how to spot them!

What Makes State Quarters Valuable?

Not every state quarter is rare, but certain factors can make some incredibly valuable. Here’s what collectors look for:

1. Minting Errors: Mistakes during production, like doubling or die cracks, increase a coin’s rarity.
2. Limited Production: Fewer coins mean higher demand among collectors.
3. Condition: Coins in perfect, uncirculated condition are worth much more than worn ones.

Top 10 Rare State Quarters

1. Delaware “Spitting Horse” (1999)

• What to Look For: A die crack near the horse’s mouth creates the appearance of it “spitting.”
• Value: Up to $5,000 in mint condition.

2. Pennsylvania Double Die (1999)

• What to Look For: Doubling in the reverse lettering, often called the “Double Die Reverse.”
• Value: Up to $1,000 for well-preserved examples.

3. New Hampshire “Hanging Old Man” (2000)

• What to Look For: A die crack makes it look like there’s a rope around the Old Man of the Mountain formation.
• Value: As much as $500, depending on how visible the error is.

4. South Carolina Doubled Text (2000)

• What to Look For: Doubling in the word “South” on the coin’s face.
• Value: Around $250 for coins in great condition.

5. Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” (2004)

• What to Look For: An additional “high” or “low” leaf on the corn stalk.
• Value: Up to $1,500 for rare examples.

6. Minnesota Double Die (2005)

• What to Look For: Doubling in the background trees.
• Value: As much as $300 in mint condition.

7. Colorado “Cud Error” (2006)

• What to Look For: A die crack in the mountains creates the illusion of an extra peak.
• Value: Up to $250 for prominent errors.

8. Hawaii Double Die (2008)

• What to Look For: Doubling in the state name, “Hawaii.”
• Value: Around $500 for uncirculated examples.

9. District of Columbia “Ellington Error” (2009)

• What to Look For: Misspelling of Duke Ellington’s name on the coin.
• Value: Up to $1,000, especially in pristine condition.

10. Alaska “Bear Claw” Error (2008)

• What to Look For: A die flaw makes the bear’s paw look extended.
• Value: Around $500 in excellent condition.

How to Find Rare Quarters

1. Inspect Carefully

Look closely at state quarters from 1999–2009. Use a magnifying glass to spot errors like doubling, cracks, or extra designs.

2. Search in Everyday Places

• Pocket Change: Rare coins still circulate, so check your quarters!
• Bank Rolls: Ask for rolls of quarters to search through.
• Estate Sales: These can be goldmines for finding hidden treasures.

How to Protect Your Finds

Think you’ve found a rare quarter? Here’s how to keep it safe:

1. Handle Carefully: Always hold coins by the edges to avoid smudges.
2. Store Safely: Use protective holders to prevent scratches or wear.
3. Get Graded: Professional services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and appraise your coin’s value.

Selling Your Rare Quarters

When it’s time to sell, consider these options:

• Coin Dealers: They can provide expert valuations.
• Online Auctions: Sites like eBay attract competitive bids.
• Coin Shows: Great for networking with collectors and selling directly.
• Private Collectors: Direct sales often yield better prices.

State quarters aren’t just everyday coins—they can be worth a fortune. From the Delaware “Spitting Horse” to the Wisconsin “Extra Leaf,” these rare finds can turn pocket change into big money. All it takes is a sharp eye, some patience, and a little luck.

Start checking your quarters today—you might just discover a hidden gem!