Discovering rare U.S. quarters in your pocket change can be both exciting and profitable. While most quarters are worth their face value, certain rare varieties and errors can fetch significant sums from collectors. This guide highlights some of the most valuable U.S. quarters you might encounter.
Contents
1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
The 1999-P Delaware quarter, part of the inaugural state quarters series, features an error known as the “Spitting Horse.”
This variety displays a die crack extending from the horse’s mouth toward the word “CAESAR,” giving the appearance of the horse spitting. Initially rare, more specimens have surfaced over time, with current values ranging between $10 and $20.
2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
In 2004, the Wisconsin State Quarter was released, and some coins from the Denver Mint exhibited an unusual feature: an extra leaf on the corn stalk. This anomaly appears in two forms—High Leaf and Low Leaf—each adding a distinct leaf near the ear of corn.
These errors are believed to have resulted from intentional die modifications. Upon discovery, these quarters garnered significant attention, with some selling for over $500. As more were found, prices stabilized, and they now typically sell for $50 to $65 in circulated condition.
2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The 2005-P Minnesota quarter is notable for its numerous doubled die varieties, where extra tree details appear on the reverse side. Collectors have identified over 60 different doubled die varieties for this issue.
The most dramatic examples can fetch between $50 and $100, while more subtle varieties range from $5 to $25, depending on visibility and coin condition.
2009-D District of Columbia Doubled Die Quarter
Released in 2009, the District of Columbia quarter features jazz legend Duke Ellington on the reverse. Some coins exhibit a doubled die error, causing the letters “ELL” in “Ellington” and the piano keys to appear doubled.
Initially, these errors fetched hundreds of dollars, but prices have since settled to around $75 for circulated examples.
1999-S Pennsylvania Proof Silver Quarter
The 1999-S Pennsylvania quarter is part of a proof coin set released for collectors. Unlike standard circulation quarters, proof coins are struck multiple times for sharper details and have a mirror-like finish.
The Pennsylvania quarter has a low mintage of only 804,565 coins and is composed of 90% silver, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
| Quarter | Year | Mint Mark | Error/Variety | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware “Spitting Horse” | 1999 | P | Die crack from horse’s mouth | $10–$20 |
| Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” | 2004 | D | High/Low extra leaf on corn stalk | $50–$65 |
| Minnesota Doubled Die | 2005 | P | Extra tree details on reverse | $5–$100 |
| D.C. Doubled Die | 2009 | D | Doubled “ELL” and piano keys | $75 |
| Pennsylvania Proof Silver | 1999 | S | Proof coin with low mintage | $35 |
While these quarters are rare, they can occasionally be found in circulation. Carefully examining your pocket change might reveal one of these hidden treasures. Remember, the value of a coin depends on its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
FAQs
What makes a quarter valuable to collectors?
A quarter’s value increases due to factors like rarity, minting errors, limited production runs, and unique design features. Coins in excellent condition, especially those with uncirculated or proof finishes, are particularly sought after.
How can I identify a valuable quarter in my change?
Look for unusual features such as doubled images, extra design elements, or missing details. Using a magnifying glass can help spot these anomalies. Additionally, familiarize yourself with key dates and mint marks associated with valuable quarters.
Should I clean a dirty or tarnished quarter to increase its value?
No, cleaning a coin can reduce its value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered state, as cleaning can cause scratches and diminish the coin’s appeal.
