The State Quarter program started in 1999 by the U.S. Mint became very popular. People loved collecting these quarters because each one shows something special about a different state. But not all quarters are created equal! Some state quarters are rare and can even be worth a lot of money, especially if they have minting mistakes or were produced in small numbers. In this article, we’ll look at ten of the rarest state quarters that you might still find in your pocket or change jar. You might be surprised at what they can be worth!
1999 Delaware Quarter
The 1999 Delaware quarter was the first state quarter ever released. It’s well-known because of a mistake called the “spitting horse” error. This error happens because of a die crack near the horse’s mouth on the back of the quarter. Because of this small mistake, the value of these quarters can go up to $5,000!
1999 Pennsylvania Quarter
The 1999 Pennsylvania quarter is famous for an error called the “Double Die Reverse.” This means the letters on the coin look doubled. Collectors really want this quarter because of its unique printing mistake, and it can be worth up to $1,000!
2000 New Hampshire Quarter
The 2000 New Hampshire quarter is sought after for an error called the “Hanging Old Man.” A die crack makes it look like the famous rock formation known as the “Old Man of the Mountain” has a rope around its neck. This mistake is quite valuable, with some quarters fetching up to $500!
2000 South Carolina Quarter
The 2000 South Carolina quarter features a rare error where the word “South” is doubled. This tiny mistake can make the coin much more desirable, and it can be worth around $250!
2001 Kentucky Quarter
The 2001 Kentucky quarter has a rare version that shows an error in the horse’s mane on the back. Known as the “Horse Doubling Error,” this unique defect is valuable to collectors and can reach up to $300!
2004 Wisconsin Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter is one of the most famous error quarters. It has a mistake called the “extra leaf” variety, with two versions: one having an “extra high leaf” and the other an “extra low leaf” near the corn stalk. Both can be worth a lot, with some going for up to $1,500!
2005 Minnesota Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota quarter is recognized for a “Double Die” error. This means that trees in the background appear doubled. Collectors look for this version, and its value can reach $300.
2006 Colorado Quarter
The 2006 Colorado quarter has a rare mistake called the “Cud Error.” This means there’s a die crack along the mountains on the back, creating a raised part that looks like an extra mountain. This unique feature increases its value, reaching up to $250.
2008 Hawaii Quarter
The 2008 Hawaii quarter features an error where the word “Hawaii” is doubled. Known as a “Double Die Error,” this quarter is rare and can be worth up to $500.
2009 District of Columbia Quarter
The 2009 District of Columbia quarter shows the famous jazz musician Duke Ellington. One version has a spelling mistake on the word “Ellington,” called the “Ellington Error.” This rare variant is highly valuable and can reach around $1,000.
Summary Table of Rare State Quarters
| Quarter | Error Type | Estimated Value | Year of Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Delaware | Spitting Horse | Up to $5,000 | 1999 |
| 1999 Pennsylvania | Double Die Reverse | Up to $1,000 | 1999 |
| 2000 New Hampshire | Hanging Old Man | Up to $500 | 2000 |
| 2000 South Carolina | Doubling on “South” | Up to $250 | 2000 |
| 2001 Kentucky | Horse Doubling Error | Up to $300 | 2001 |
| 2004 Wisconsin | Extra Leaf Error | Up to $1,500 | 2004 |
| 2005 Minnesota | Double Die Error | Up to $300 | 2005 |
| 2006 Colorado | Cud Error | Up to $250 | 2006 |
| 2008 Hawaii | Double Die Error | Up to $500 | 2008 |
| 2009 District of Columbia | Ellington Misspelling | Up to $1,000 | 2009 |
While these state quarters are rare and valuable, finding them takes a bit of luck and a keen eye. You can check your spare change, visit local coin shops, or attend coin shows to increase your chances of discovering one of these treasures!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of state quarters is filled with exciting opportunities for collectors and casual coin enthusiasts alike. From the unique errors that make some quarters rarer than others to the thrill of potentially finding one in your pocket, state quarters hold a special place in American numismatics. Whether you’re just starting your collection or you’ve been hunting for rare coins for years, keep an eye out for these ten rare state quarters. You might just find a hidden gem!
FAQ’s
What makes a state quarter rare?
A state quarter is considered rare if it has minting errors, limited production, or special features that collectors desire.
How can I find rare state quarters?
You can find rare state quarters by checking your change, visiting coin shops, or attending coin shows and auctions.
What is the value of a 1999 Delaware quarter?
The 1999 Delaware quarter can be worth up to $5,000 if it has the “spitting horse” error.
Are all state quarters valuable?
No, not all state quarters are valuable. Only certain ones with errors or rare features are worth more than face value.
What should I do if I find a rare quarter?
If you find a rare quarter, consider having it appraised by a coin expert to determine its value before selling or trading it.