Some quarters in circulation today are much more valuable than their 25-cent face value, especially if they feature unique errors or rare minting mistakes. Collectors are willing to pay significant premiums for these rare error quarters, which can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the type of error and the coin’s condition. Here’s a list of ten valuable error quarters and tips on identifying these hidden treasures in your change.
Rare Error Quarters Worth More Than Face Value
| Error Quarter | Mint Year | Type of Error | Value Range (in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter | 1999 | Die Break | $5 – $30 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter | 2004 | Extra High/Low Leaf | $50 – $100 |
| 2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter | 2005 | Doubled Die | $5 – $50 |
| 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse) | 1976 | Doubled Die Obverse | Up to $8,400 |
| 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter | 2005 | Grease-filled Die | $15 – $50 |
| 1964-D Washington Quarter | 1964 | Silver Content | Up to $8,000 |
| 1983-P Washington Quarter Spitting Eagle | 1983 | Die Clash | Around $500 |
| 2004-P Iowa Quarter | 2004 | Scarcity | $1 – $10 |
| 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Struck on a Georgia Quarter | 1999 | Wrong Planchet | Up to $10,925 |
| 2009-D District of Columbia Doubled Die Reverse Quarter | 2009 | Doubled Die Reverse | Over $3,000 |
1999-P Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
The 1999 Delaware “Spitting Horse” quarter has a die break that creates a raised line extending from the horse’s mouth, which looks like the horse is “spitting.” This error makes the coin special among collectors. Uncirculated examples can sell for up to $30, while circulated ones typically range from $5 to $15. Initially, these coins were valued at over $100!
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
This quarter features two error versions: one with an extra leaf above the corn stalk and another with an extra leaf below it. These minting mistakes make the coins very valuable. Depending on which version you have and the condition of the coin, it can be worth between $50 and $100.
2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota quarter has a doubled die error, where some versions show an extra tree in the background. These error coins range in value from $5 to $50, with more noticeable doubling selling for higher prices.
1976-D Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Obverse)
The Bicentennial quarter is famous, but some 1976-D quarters show a doubled die error on the front. These rare error coins can be very valuable. In excellent condition, they can reach prices of up to $8,400!
2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter
Some 2005 Kansas quarters mistakenly have “In God We Rust” instead of “In God We Trust” due to a grease-filled die error. Circulated coins with this error can sell for up to $50, while uncirculated ones are valued between $15 and $30.
1964-D Washington Quarter
In 1964, the U.S. Mint stopped making quarters with 90% silver content. However, a rare error involving a 1964-D Washington quarter still has high silver content, making it very valuable. In great condition, this error coin can be worth up to $8,000.
1983-P Washington Quarter Spitting Eagle
Similar to the 1999 Delaware Spitting Horse, the 1983-P Washington quarter shows a die clash error near the eagle’s beak, making it look like the eagle is “spitting.” Pristine examples of this error coin can sell for around $500.
2004-P Iowa Quarter
Although the 2004 Iowa quarter doesn’t have a specific error, it remains one of the rarer state quarters. Uncirculated coins can be worth more than their face value, usually around $1 or higher.
1999-P Susan B. Anthony Struck on a Georgia Quarter
In an unusual error, a Georgia quarter was struck using a planchet meant for a Susan B. Anthony dollar. This rare mistake sold for a record price of $10,925, making it very desirable for collectors.
2009-D District of Columbia Doubled Die Reverse Quarter
The 2009-D District of Columbia quarter has a doubled die reverse error, greatly increasing its value. One of these coins in mint condition sold for over $3,000, showing the appeal of rare error quarters to collectors.
How to Identify and Collect Error Quarters
To find valuable error quarters, follow these tips:
Examine Your Pocket Change
Always look at the quarters you receive. You might find a rare coin without even realizing it!
Use a Magnifying Glass
Small details like die breaks, doubling, or unusual markings may not be visible without help.
Research Online or Consult Experts
If you think you have an error, seek professional advice or check online resources to verify it.
Look for Mint Marks and Dates
Pay special attention to quarters minted in 1964, 1999, or specific years known for errors.
Collecting error quarters can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Certain mistakes can greatly increase a coin’s value. While some errors are subtle, even minor variations can make a quarter worth a lot more, so it’s important to inspect all your change.
Conclusion
Finding rare error quarters can be exciting! These unique coins offer collectors a chance to discover something truly valuable. By keeping an eye on your pocket change and knowing what to look for, you might uncover a hidden treasure. Remember, even small differences in a coin can lead to big value. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, exploring the world of error quarters can make your hobby even more enjoyable. So start looking through your change today—who knows what you might find!
FAQs
What are error quarters?
Error quarters are coins that have been minted with mistakes or unique characteristics during the production process.
How can I tell if my quarter is an error coin?
To identify an error coin, examine your quarters closely for unusual features such as doubling, missing letters, or strange markings.
What are some of the most valuable error quarters?
Some of the most valuable error quarters include the 1976-D Bicentennial quarter (doubled die), the 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf quarter, and the 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” quarter.
Are all error quarters worth a lot of money?
Not all error quarters are worth significant amounts. The value depends on the type of error, the coin’s condition, and the demand among collectors.