Collecting state quarters can be an enjoyable and rewarding hobby. While most state quarters are worth their face value, certain ones stand out due to their rarity, minting errors, or pristine condition. These factors make them highly sought after by collectors. Here’s a guide to the most valuable state quarters you might encounter.
1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
This quarter is part of an experimental series where state quarters were struck on Sacagawea dollar alloy planchets. These rare coins were created to test metals for the 2000 Sacagawea dollar. Only a small number of these were minted, making them extremely valuable.
A 1999-P Delaware quarter graded MS66 sold for $4,888 at auction, making it a prized piece among collectors.
2003-D Maine State Quarter
The Maine state quarter, minted in Denver, is rare in mint condition. While circulated examples are common, finding one graded MS67 or higher is a challenge.
In 2017, an MS68 Maine state quarter fetched $2,300 at Heritage Auctions, proving its value to collectors.
2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
The South Carolina state quarter is particularly valuable in mint condition. Examples graded MS68 or higher are incredibly rare, with only a handful certified by grading services.
In 2018, an MS69 example sold for $8,000, making it one of the most valuable state quarters.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter: Extra Leaf Error
The Wisconsin state quarter is famous for its “Extra Leaf” error, which appears as an additional maize husk on the coin’s reverse. This error comes in two varieties: Low Leaf and High Leaf.
In 2020, a low-grade MS67 example sold for $6,000, highlighting the high demand for these error coins.
1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
Another experimental coin, the 1999-P Connecticut quarter, was struck on a Sacagawea alloy planchet. These coins are heavier, thicker, and have a gold tone compared to regular quarters.
An MS69 Connecticut quarter sold for $10,500 in 2018, cementing its status as a rare collectible.
1999-P Delaware State Quarter
The first coin of the Statehood Quarter Program, the Delaware state quarter, is highly sought after in mint condition. Many were saved upon release, but pristine examples remain rare.
An MS66 Delaware quarter sold for $4,888 in 2008, showcasing its value to dedicated collectors.
1999-P Pennsylvania MS67 Experimental Planchet
The Pennsylvania quarter is another member of the experimental Sacagawea alloy series. These coins are scarce due to their limited mintage.
A graded MS67 Pennsylvania experimental planchet coin is valued at $2,520 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company.
2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
The North Dakota state quarter is relatively common in circulated condition, but high-grade mint examples are rare. Coins graded MS68 are especially prized.
In 2017, an MS68 North Dakota quarter sold for $3,760, reflecting its rarity in such high condition.
2004-P Texas State Quarter
The 2004-P Texas quarter is notable for its “Grease Strike Through Error,” where grease obscured parts of the coin’s design during minting. Even without errors, MS69 Texas quarters can fetch significant sums.
One such coin with an error sold for $10,000, while flawless MS69 examples are worth around $3,055.
2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
With a mintage of over 244 million, the 2008-D New Mexico quarter might not seem special. However, high-grade mint examples are scarce. Coins graded MS67 or higher are exceedingly rare.
A pristine MS68 example commands premium prices, making this quarter a surprising addition to the list of valuable state quarters.
FAQs
Which state quarter is the most valuable?
The 1999-P Connecticut error coin sold for $10,500.
What makes state quarters valuable?
Rarity, mint errors, and high-grade condition increase value.
What is the 2004-D Wisconsin error?
It features an extra leaf on the maize husk design.
Why are experimental planchet coins rare?
They were part of limited tests for Sacagawea dollar metals.
Can circulated state quarters be valuable?
Usually no, but rare errors or low mintage can add value.
