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The U.S. Mint’s State Quarter Program, running from 1999 to 2008, introduced excitement into coin collecting by showcasing designs celebrating each state’s heritage. Most state quarters are only worth their face value, but some error coins have become very valuable collectibles, with certain rare examples fetching prices as high as $150 million. Let’s take a look at some of these incredible errors and what makes them so special.
Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)
Caeser Rodney astride his horse adorns the 1999 Delaware Quarter-the first in the State Quarters series. Because of a die crack, there resulted what collectors know as the “Spitting Horse” variety-the line extending out of the horse’s mouth looks like it is spittle.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
| Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
| Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
This silly error has helped make it the most popular State Quarter error.
Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter appeared in 2004.
The 2004 Wisconsin Quarter, celebrating the state’s agricultural heritage, features a cow, a cheese wheel, and a corn stalk. A mint error added an extra leaf to the corn stalk, with two variations:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error Variants | High extra leaf and low extra leaf |
| Value | Significant premiums over face value |
| Collector Appeal | Highly desirable due to unique design error |
Both variants of the extra leaf error are prized by collectors, with values climbing significantly based on condition and rarity.
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)
The 2005 Kansas Quarter, with a bison and the state motto, will be remembered for its “In God We Rust” error.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Missing “T” in “TRUST” due to a grease-filled die |
| Value | Significant premiums for uncirculated examples |
| Collector Appeal | Popular for its humorous and ironic error |
This error has gained significant publicity due to its unique defect, making it a talking point in the numismatic circles.
Other notable State Quarter errors
Some other State Quarter errors are also worth good money:
| State | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut (1999) | Broad strike (expanded coin size) | Over $1,000 |
| New Hampshire (2000) | Die crack through the design | Over $500 |
| Minnesota (2005) | Extra tree in the design | Over $1,000 |
| Georgia (1999) | Missing mint mark | Over $700 |
These errors illustrate that valuable finds may be lurking in change.
Factors Determining Value
The value of error quarters depends on several key factors:
- Rarity: The fewer coins with the error, the higher the value.
- Condition: Coins in pristine condition fetch premium prices.
- Error Type: Unique or dramatic errors, like extra design elements or missing letters, are more desirable.
- Collector Demand: Popularity of the coin series and error type impacts market value.
How to Spot Valuable Error Quarters
Seek Valuable State Quarters
If you are looking through your collection or change for valuable State Quarters, do these steps:
- Examine the Design: Look for unusual features, extra elements, or missing details.
- Concentrate on Key States: Focus on Delaware (1999), Wisconsin (2004), and Kansas (2005).
- Inspect Proper Lighting: Good lighting reveals hidden errors.
- Compare Coins: Compare to known images of valuable errors.
Selling Valuable Quarters
When you suspect that you have an error coin:
- Handle Carefully: Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can decrease its value.
- Store Properly: Use protective holders to prevent damage.
- Authenticate: Have the coin professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult Dealers: Work with reputable coin dealers or auction houses for accurate valuation and sales.
Why Collect Error State Quarters?
The State Quarters program is an interesting look at U.S. history and regional pride. The excitement of error coins adds an extra layer of fun to collecting. These rare mistakes are not only valuable but also unique artifacts of the minting process, showing the human element behind America’s coinage.
Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or just a casual enthusiast, searching for error quarters adds an exciting dimension to coin collecting. Although the odds of finding a $150 million “Spitting Horse” quarter are low, the hunt itself is a fulfilling experience—and who knows, you might just know a hidden gem in your loose change.
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