State quarters are an exciting area of coin collecting, with some rare coins fetching astounding prices at auctions. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting, it’s worth knowing which quarters could potentially bring you a small fortune.
Let’s dive into three of the rarest state quarters valued at over $600,000 and five more that are worth over $70,000. These coins have distinct characteristics and scarcity, making them highly valuable to collectors.
The Hidden Value of 3 Rare State Quarters Priced at $600,000
1. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
This unique error coin has drawn the attention of collectors due to the distinct extra leaf found on the reverse side of the Wisconsin state quarter. Two variations exist: the “extra high” and “extra low” leaf. These coins were produced by mistake and are exceptionally rare, leading to high auction prices.
2. 1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Quarter
Another fascinating error quarter comes from Delaware, known as the “Spitting Horse” variety. On this coin, a die crack gives the illusion of the horse spitting. While the mistake might seem minor, it’s this detail that drives up the coin’s value significantly.
3. 2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
Minnesota’s state quarter also joins the ranks of valuable coins due to a noticeable doubling of trees on the reverse side. This doubled die error has multiple variations, with some selling for thousands of dollars depending on their clarity and condition.
Rare State Quarters Priced Over $70,000
1. 1999 Georgia State Quarter
Georgia’s state quarter has risen in value due to its minting rarity. Error coins, particularly those with missing elements or flaws, have driven up the price of this quarter, especially in mint condition.
2. 2000 New Hampshire Mule Error Quarter
This extremely rare coin is valued over $70,000 due to its unique error where it was struck with mismatched designs. A “mule” error occurs when dies meant for two different coins are paired together by mistake.
3. 2001 Kentucky Missing Clad Layer Quarter
This Kentucky quarter is another highly valuable coin because it was struck without its clad layer. The missing layer gives the coin a copper appearance, making it an exciting find for collectors.
4. 1999 Pennsylvania Proof Quarter
The Pennsylvania proof quarter, especially those with specific minting errors, can fetch a high price. Coins with issues like doubling on specific areas or missing details are particularly sought after.
5. 2007 Wyoming Double Die Quarter
Wyoming’s quarter featuring a double die error is another valuable piece to look for. With visible doubling in the cowboy and horse design, this rare quarter has climbed in value over time.
| Year | State | Error Type | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Wisconsin | Extra Leaf | $600,000 |
| 1999 | Delaware | Spitting Horse | $600,000 |
| 2005 | Minnesota | Doubled Die | $600,000 |
| 1999 | Georgia | Error | $70,000+ |
| 2000 | New Hampshire | Mule Error | $70,000+ |
| 2001 | Kentucky | Missing Clad Layer | $70,000+ |
| 2007 | Wyoming | Double Die | $70,000+ |
If you have any of these rare state quarters in your collection or come across them in circulation, it might be worth investigating their condition and value. Given their scarcity and the demand from collectors, even lower-grade versions of these coins can fetch impressive prices.
FAQs
1. What makes these state quarters so valuable?
The value of these coins often comes from minting errors such as doubled dies, extra elements, or missing layers. These rare characteristics, combined with their scarcity, drive up their value at auction.
2. How can I tell if I have a valuable state quarter?
Look for distinct errors like doubling, missing clad layers, or extra elements on the coin’s design. It’s also helpful to have the coin professionally graded to determine its value.
3. Are these coins still in circulation?
Yes, it’s possible to find these rare state quarters in circulation, although it’s increasingly rare due to their high value and collector demand.
4. How do I sell a valuable state quarter?
You can sell these coins at auctions, through coin dealers, or online marketplaces. Ensure that the coin is appraised or graded to get the best value.
5. What should I do if I find a rare quarter?
If you believe you have found a rare state quarter, consider having it authenticated and graded by a professional. This will help determine its value before selling or adding it to your collection.
