2022 Rare Quarters: Spotting Errors and Determining Their Value

The 2022 American Women Quarters Program introduced a series of coins honoring influential women in U.S. history.

While these quarters are significant for their commemorative designs, certain minting errors have made specific coins highly sought after by collectors.

This article delves into the various errors found in the 2022 quarters, their potential values, and how to identify them.

Overview of the 2022 American Women Quarters

In 2022, the U.S. Mint launched the American Women Quarters Program, featuring five pioneering women:

• Maya Angelou: Celebrated poet and civil rights activist.
• Dr. Sally Ride: First American woman in space.
• Wilma Mankiller: First female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.
• Nina Otero-Warren: Leader in New Mexico’s suffrage movement.
• Anna May Wong: First Chinese-American Hollywood film star.

Each quarter showcases a unique reverse design honoring these women, while the obverse features a portrait of George Washington.

Common Minting Errors in 2022 Quarters

Minting errors can significantly increase a coin’s value. Collectors should be aware of the following errors in the 2022 quarters:

1. Die Cracks and Chips: Small cracks or chips on the coin’s surface due to die wear.
2. Double Dies: Doubling of images or inscriptions caused during the minting process.
3. Off-Center Strikes: Coins not properly aligned during striking, resulting in off-center images.
4. Clashed Dies: Impressions from opposing dies appearing on the coin due to misalignment.

Notable Errors and Their Values

Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on coin condition and market demand.

Quarter Design	Error Type	Description	Estimated Value Range
Maya Angelou	“Drooling George”	Die chip below Washington’s chin, resembling drool.	$100 – $1,900
	“Nesting Bird”	Die crack near the bird’s beak on the reverse side.	$50 – $1,000
Dr. Sally Ride	“Ghost Comet Tail”	Die clash creating a line behind Ride’s neck and shoulder.	$300 – $1,250
Wilma Mankiller	Retained Die Break	Break at the rim on the obverse side.	$100 – $1,500
Nina Otero-Warren	Double Die Obverse	Doubling of inscriptions or images on the obverse side.	$350 – $800
Anna May Wong	Die Chips	Various die chips on the obverse or reverse sides.	$50 – $500

Identifying and Assessing Coin Errors

To determine if a 2022 quarter has a valuable error:

1. Visual Inspection: Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin for anomalies.
2. Reference Guides: Compare findings with established error coin guides.
3. Professional Grading: For high-value errors, consider submitting the coin to a professional grading service for authentication and valuation.

The 2022 American Women Quarters not only celebrate significant figures in U.S. history but also present opportunities for collectors due to various minting errors. By understanding and identifying these errors, collectors can assess the potential value of their coins and make informed decisions about their collections.

FAQs

What makes a 2022 quarter valuable?

Minting errors such as die cracks, double dies, and off-center strikes can increase a 2022 quarter’s value. The coin’s condition and rarity also play significant roles.

How can I identify a minting error on my 2022 quarter?

Examine the coin under magnification, looking for anomalies like doubling of images or inscriptions, unusual lines, or misalignments.

Should I clean my error coin to increase its value?

No, cleaning a coin can reduce its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original condition.