Errors and their value in the US State Quarters program (1999-2008)
The State Quarters program’s design and a great promotional campaign, including helpful videos and literature, made the coins very popular. Most of the coins, which generally do not have much face value, sell for less than 25 cents. But there are rare exceptions, and some coins made with errors can be worth more than a mid-range car. Below are some coins with notable errors:
Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
| Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
| Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
The Delaware region, released in 1999, the first coin in the State Quarters collection, depicts Caesar Rodney on horseback. But the coin is called the “Spitting Horse” because of a printing error. A die crack brought on a line to expire from the pony’s mouth, which gave the impression of saliva.
This bizarre mistake has caught the attention of collectors and is considered one of the most iconic state area errors.
Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter (2004)
The Wisconsin quarter issued in 2004, which celebrates the state’s agricultural heritage, features a cow, a wheel of cheese, and a corn plant. This coin had a printing mistake that added an extra leaf to the corn plant. Two versions of this mistake have been produced:
Both of these versions have become highly sought after by collectors and can rise substantially in value depending on the coin’s condition and rarity.
| 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 |
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)
The Kansas quarter issued in 2005, which featured a bison and the state’s motto “In God We Trust,” had a mistake. The word “RUST” was mistakenly written instead of “TRUST,” making this coin a fun and unique subject.
This mistake not only became a topic of discussion among collectors, but it also became a popular and valuable coin.
| 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 |
Other Important State Quarter Mistakes
In addition, other state quarters have printing mistakes that have proven to be extremely valuable to collectors. These coins are common among our everyday money, and the hidden mistakes in them are an exciting find for collecting.
| 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 |
Factors Affecting Coin Value
The price of a coin depends on several important factors:
- Rarity: The fewer coins with the mistake, the more valuable they will be.
- Condition: The better the condition of the coin, the more valuable it will be.
- Type of mistake: If the mistake is unique or spectacular, such as additional design elements or missing words, the coin becomes even more attractive.
- Collector demand: Depending on the type of coin and the flaw, the demand in the market also affects the coin’s price.
How to identify a valuable coin with a flaw?
If you’re looking for a valuable state quarter among your coins, follow these simple steps:
- Look at the design: Look for unique elements, extras, or missing details on the coin.
- Focus on key states: Keep an eye out for coins like Delaware (1999), Wisconsin (2004), and Kansas (2005).
- Use the right lighting: Looking at the coin in good light can make it easier for you to spot small flaws.
- Compare coins: Compare coins with images of coins that have valuable flaws.
What to do to sell a valuable quarter?
If you think you’ve discovered a valuable mistake in a coin, keep these things in mind:
- Handle the coin: Do not clean the coin, as this can reduce its value.
- Store properly: Keep the coin in a protective cover to prevent it from getting damaged.
- Get it authenticated: Have the coin authenticated by an authentication service such as PCGS or NGC.
- Consult dealers: Contact reputable coin dealers or auction houses for coin pricing and sale.
Why Collect State Quarter Mistakes?
The state quarter program is a great example of American history and regional pride. Collecting is even more exciting when it includes mistakes. These rare mistakes are not only valuable, but they also symbolize the unique coin-making processes that leave a mark of humanity in the creation of U.S. coins.
Whether you are an experienced coin collector or an informal newbie, locating coins with errors brings an entirely new measurement to coin amassing. If you ever discover the $150 million “Spitting Horse” sector, it is going to be extremely rare; however, the revelry of the find itself can be extraordinary, and you might even discover a hidden gem among your vintage coins!
FAQs
What is the Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter?
The Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999) has a die crack causing a line from the horse’s mouth, resembling saliva. It’s a rare error highly sought after by collectors.
What is the Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter?
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter features a corn plant with an extra leaf due to a printing mistake. There are two versions, and both are valuable depending on condition and rarity.
What is the Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter?
The Kansas quarter (2005) has a mistake where “RUST” replaces “TRUST” in the state’s motto. This unique error has made it popular among collectors and valuable.