The 10 Most Valuable State Quarters Worth Over $553K: For coin enthusiasts and collectors, the U.S. State Quarters series offers more than just an artistic representation of American history—it’s also a treasure hunt. While most State Quarters are only worth their face value, a select few have become incredibly valuable due to unique minting errors, scarcity in pristine condition, or historical significance. These rare coins have captured the attention of collectors, with some fetching prices as high as $6,000 or more.
In this article, we’ll uncover the 10 most valuable State Quarters, examining what makes them special and how you might spot one in your own collection. Whether it’s the intriguing “spitting horse” error or an elusive high-grade coin, these quarters are worth your attention—and perhaps a small fortune.
Overview Table: 10 Most Valuable State Quarters
| Coin | Year | Mintmark | Unique Feature | Value Range (USD) |
| Delaware Quarter | 1999 | Philadelphia | “Spitting horse” error | $400 – $5,000 |
| Wisconsin Quarter | 2004 | Denver | “Extra leaf” error | $300 – $6,000 |
| Minnesota Quarter | 2005 | Philadelphia | “Extra tree” error | $200 – $3,500 |
| Georgia Quarter | 1999 | Philadelphia | Rare mint-state condition | $100 – $2,500 |
| District of Columbia Quarter | 2009 | Denver | Doubled-die error | $150 – $4,000 |
| Pennsylvania Quarter | 1999 | Philadelphia | Scarce in high-grade condition | $80 – $2,000 |
| New York Quarter | 2001 | Denver | Rare pristine condition | $250 – $3,000 |
| South Carolina Quarter | 2000 | Philadelphia | Difficult to find in mint state | $100 – $2,000 |
| Alaska Quarter | 2008 | Denver | “Extra claw” error | $300 – $2,500 |
| New Hampshire Quarter | 2000 | Philadelphia | Scarcity in pristine form | $100 – $1,500 |
Delaware Quarter (1999): The Spitting Horse Error
The Delaware Quarter, the very first coin in the State Quarters series, is a collector’s favorite for a fascinating reason: the “spitting horse” error. This flaw, caused by a die crack near the horse’s mouth, gives the appearance of a horse spitting. It’s a small detail, but one that has turned this coin into a sought-after rarity.
The historical significance of being the first State Quarter further increases its value. Depending on its condition, a Delaware Quarter with the “spitting horse” error can be worth between $400 and $5,000.
Wisconsin Quarter (2004): The Extra Leaf Error
The Wisconsin Quarter is renowned for its “extra leaf” error, which features an additional leaf on the corn stalk in the design. There are two variations of this error—one with a high leaf and another with a low leaf. These errors were caused by die gouges during minting, making these coins exceptionally rare.
Collectors prize these coins for their uniqueness, and pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $300 to $6,000.
Minnesota Quarter (2005): The Extra Tree Error
The Minnesota Quarter stands out for its “extra tree” error, caused by die doubling. This error results in an additional tree-like feature appearing in the background of the coin’s design.
While subtle, this error has made the Minnesota Quarter a must-have for collectors. Depending on its grade, this coin can be worth between $200 and $3,500.
Georgia Quarter (1999): Rare Mint-State Condition
Though the Georgia Quarter lacks a specific error, it has become valuable due to its rarity in mint-state condition. Coins from the early years of the State Quarters series are harder to find in pristine form, making them more desirable to collectors.
High-grade Georgia Quarters typically sell for between $100 and $2,500.
District of Columbia Quarter (2009): Doubled-Die Error
The District of Columbia Quarter, honoring jazz legend Duke Ellington, became even more famous due to a doubled-die error. This minting mistake causes parts of the text and design to appear doubled, making the coin stand out among collectors.
A District of Columbia Quarter with this error can be worth between $150 and $4,000, depending on its condition.
Pennsylvania Quarter (1999): Early Release Rarity
Like other early State Quarters, the Pennsylvania Quarter is valuable in high-grade condition. These coins, minted during the series’ inaugural year, are increasingly scarce in pristine form, driving up their value.
Collectors can expect to pay $80 to $2,000 for a Pennsylvania Quarter in excellent condition.
New York Quarter (2001): Scarce in Mint Condition
The New York Quarter, featuring the Statue of Liberty and a state outline, is another coin highly valued in mint-state condition. Its design appeals to collectors, and its scarcity in pristine form makes it particularly sought after.
Mint-condition examples of the New York Quarter are valued between $250 and $3,000.
South Carolina Quarter (2000): A Tough Find in Top Shape
The South Carolina Quarter may not have a notable error, but its difficulty to find in high-grade condition makes it desirable to collectors. Coins from the early 2000s are generally harder to find in pristine form, and this coin is no exception.
In top-notch condition, a South Carolina Quarter can sell for $100 to $2,000.
Alaska Quarter (2008): The Extra Claw Error
The Alaska Quarter is a favorite among error coin collectors due to the “extra claw” flaw. This error, caused by a die gouge, results in the bear depicted on the coin appearing to have an additional claw.
Depending on its grade, the Alaska Quarter can fetch between $300 and $2,500.
New Hampshire Quarter (2000): Rare and Pristine
The New Hampshire Quarter, known for its depiction of the Old Man of the Mountain, holds value for its scarcity in mint condition. Coins from this year are increasingly difficult to find without signs of wear.
Collectors are willing to pay between $100 and $1,500 for a New Hampshire Quarter in pristine form.
What Makes State Quarters Valuable?
Several factors influence the value of State Quarters:
- Minting Errors: Flaws such as doubling, die cracks, or added features increase rarity and appeal.
- High-Grade Condition: Quarters with little to no wear are prized by collectors, especially older coins from the early years of the series.
- Collector Demand: Quarters with unique designs or historical significance often command higher prices.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a rare State Quarter?
Look for minting errors, unusual features, or coins in mint-state condition. Using a magnifying glass can help identify subtle errors.
What is the most valuable State Quarter?
The 1999 Delaware Quarter with the “spitting horse” error can be worth up to $5,000 in high-grade condition.
Are all State Quarters worth collecting?
Most State Quarters are only worth face value, but specific ones with errors or in pristine condition can be highly valuable.
Where can I sell my valuable quarters?
You can sell State Quarters through coin dealers, online marketplaces, or numismatic auctions.
Should I clean my State Quarters before selling?
No. Cleaning coins can damage them and reduce their value. Always leave them in their natural condition.
Final Thoughts
State Quarters are more than small change; they’re a window into history and a potential source of financial gain. Whether it’s an error coin like the Wisconsin Quarter or a high-grade gem like the Georgia Quarter, these coins have proven their worth in the collector’s market.
Check your collection—you might have one of these valuable coins hiding in plain sight. Share your finds in the comments, and explore more about collecting rare coins!
