In 1999, the US government initiated the US State Quarters Program and released new quarters with designs corresponding to the specialty of each state. Most of these quarters are worth their face value of 25 cents, but some of the rare coins have appreciated their price incredibly high because of their distinctive designs, mint mistakes, or being in extremely good condition.
There are three State Quarters, in particular, which are rare and together constitute a value of nearly $150 million. These coins are highly sought after by numismatists. Let us learn more about these rare coins in detail.
1. 2005 Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter
Features: This quarter was released in 2005, which has a buffalo and “In God We Trust”. But a mistake in some coins made the “T” of the word “Trust” vanish, so it reads “In God We Rust”.
- ✅ Description of error: The “T” of the word “Trust” is missing or faded.
- ✅ Estimated value: Can go up to $800,000 (approximately Rs 6.6 crores) for coins in good condition.
- ✅ Why so valuable? This mistake is extremely uncommon, and for this reason, it is unique for coin enthusiasts.
2. 1999 Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
Features: This quarter of Delaware was the first coin in the U.S. State Quarters program to include Caesar Rodney riding horseback. An unusual error on this coin produced a crack below the horse’s mouth that made it appear to be spitting.
✅ Error description: A small crack (die crack) close to the horse’s mouth that gives the impression that it is spitting.
✅ Estimated price: Up to $820,000 (approximately Rs. 6.8 crores).
✅ Why so expensive? This coin is highly sought after by collectors not just due to a rare mistake but also because it is the first-issued state quarter.
3. 2004 Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
Features: The Wisconsin State Quarter released in 2004 depicted a cow, a cheese piece and a corn plant. Certain coins contained an additional leaf on the corn leaves. The mistake was of two kinds – “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf”.
- ✅ Description of the error: The corn plant included an additional leaf known as “High Leaf” or “Low Leaf”.
- ✅ Estimated value: It could be up to $850,000 (about Rs 7 crore).
- ✅ Why is it so valuable? This coin is very special for collectors due to its rare error and its unique design.
Reasons behind such a high price of these quarters
1. Minting Errors:
Unplanned mistakes in the manufacture of coins, such as die cracks, extra designs, or faded letters, make them unique.
2. Limited Availability:
These defective coins exist in extremely few numbers, hence their demand raises and the price begins shooting up.
3. Collector Demand:
There are always collectors of coins in search of special and odd coins. The demand for these coins is highly competitive in the auction, thereby raising their price even higher.
Overview of Rare State Quarters
| Year | State | Error Name | Error Description | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Kansas | “In God We Rust” | “T” of “Trust” omitted | $800,000 |
| 1999 | Delaware | “Spitting Horse” | Crack below horse’s mouth | $820,000 |
| 2004 | Wisconsin | “Extra Leaf” | Additional leaf on corn | $850,000 |
Conclusion
The actual excitement in collecting coins is when one common looking coin is actually a priceless treasure. These three scarce state quarters are the perfect example of that.
If you have some old quarters just sitting around, inspect them closely! Perhaps a plain looking coin contains a scarce error and it turns you into a millionaire.
FAQs
Q1. How can I identify if I have a rare state quarter?
Check for unique errors like missing letters, die cracks, or extra design elements. Comparing your coin with authenticated images online can help.
Q2. Where can I sell a rare state quarter?
You can sell rare quarters at numismatic auctions, online marketplaces like eBay, or through professional coin dealers.
Q3. How much is a rare state quarter worth?
The value depends on rarity, condition, and demand. Some rare quarters are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Q4. Are all state quarters valuable?
No, most state quarters hold only their face value. Only those with unique minting errors or in pristine condition are highly valuable.
Q5. How do I preserve a valuable quarter?
Store it in a protective coin holder, avoid handling it with bare hands, and keep it in a dry, cool place to maintain its condition.