Think quarters are only worth 25 cents? Think again. Some rare state quarters from the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program have become extremely valuable, and a few could still be hiding in your change jar.
Thanks to minting errors and low mintage runs, certain quarters from this iconic series are now worth over $5,000 to collectors.
If you’re curious whether you might be holding one of these rare coins, this guide is for you.
5 State Quarters Worth Over $5,000
The following state quarters have been identified as having rare errors or features that make them incredibly valuable today:
| Year | State | Error/Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Delaware | Spitting Horse Die Crack | Up to $5,000 |
| 2004 | Wisconsin | Extra Leaf on Corn Stalk | Up to $6,000 |
| 2005 | Kansas | “In God We Rust” Error | Up to $5,000 |
| 2005 | Minnesota | Doubled Trees Error | Up to $6,000 |
| 2000 | South Carolina | Off-Center Strike | Up to $7,000 |
1. 1999 Delaware Quarter – Spitting Horse Error
One of the earliest state quarters to become a collector’s gem, the 1999 Delaware quarter features a noticeable die crack that makes it look like the horse on the coin is “spitting.”
- What to Look For: A small raised line extending from the horse’s mouth.
- Why It’s Valuable: This die crack error is rare and visually striking.
- Estimated Value: Up to $5,000 in uncirculated condition.
2. 2004 Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Leaf Error
Some Wisconsin quarters were minted with an extra leaf on the ear of corn—either high or low on the stalk.
- What to Look For: An additional leaf above or below the normal corn leaf.
- Why It’s Valuable: This minting error is scarce and has gained popularity among collectors.
- Estimated Value: Up to $6,000, depending on the variety and condition.
3. 2005 Kansas Quarter – “In God We Rust” Error
A grease-filled die caused some Kansas quarters to appear as if they say “In God We Rust” instead of “In God We Trust.”
- What to Look For: A missing “T” in the word “Trust.”
- Why It’s Valuable: The error is clear and amusing, making it highly collectible.
- Estimated Value: Up to $5,000 in high grade.
4. 2005 Minnesota Quarter – Doubled Trees Error
Certain Minnesota quarters have a doubled die error, resulting in extra tree outlines in the background.
- What to Look For: Doubling of the tree lines on the right-hand side of the coin.
- Why It’s Valuable: Multiple variations of this error exist, and some are extremely rare.
- Estimated Value: Up to $6,000 in mint condition.
5. 2000 South Carolina Quarter – Off-Center Strike
Coins struck off-center are always popular among error coin collectors. Some 2000 South Carolina quarters were misaligned during minting.
- What to Look For: A design that’s clearly shifted off-center.
- Why It’s Valuable: Off-center errors of more than 15% are highly desirable.
- Estimated Value: Up to $7,000, depending on the degree of misalignment.
How to Identify These Quarters
To increase your chances of finding one of these valuable coins:
- Inspect Your Change Regularly: Especially quarters from the years listed.
- Use a Magnifier: Some details like die cracks or doubling are easier to see up close.
- Know the Key Dates: Focus on quarters minted in 1999, 2000, 2004, and 2005.
- Keep Them Uncleaned: Cleaning rare coins reduces their value.
These 5 valuable state quarters prove that treasures might still be hiding in plain sight. With some luck and attention to detail, you could stumble upon a coin worth thousands just by checking your spare change.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about what’s in your pocket, knowing what to look for gives you the chance to cash in on these rare finds.
FAQs
Are these quarters still being found in circulation?
Yes, although rare, many people have found them in pocket change or bank rolls.
Should I clean my coin if I think it’s valuable?
No. Cleaning can significantly reduce a coin’s value. Keep it in its natural condition.
Where can I get a rare quarter appraised?
You can contact professional coin dealers, attend coin shows, or submit to grading services for verification and value assessment.