9 error quarters which may remain circulated and are valued at $300 million: For coin collectors and every person alike, that moment when a coin error is found in circulation is treasured. Error quarters are considered one of the best numismatic finds among coins with errors.
There could even be thousands or even millions due to a unique mistake in the minting process with these extremely rare and valuable coins. In addition, some of these error quarters may reach value up to $300 million, and, to crown it all, they may still be hiding anywhere in your pocket change!
So stick till the end to this article to know everything about the nine rare error quarters you could be lucky enough to spot in circulation with how to identify the coins. If lucky enough to find one really, it could change your life with a find.
1970-S Proof Washington Quarter
(Overstruck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter)
One of the most famous among the error quarters, the 1970-S proof Washington quarter, was inadvertently struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter; simply due to such a strange combination of coinage across two very different countries, it brings much rareness and value to the coin. If you closely examine the coin under a magnifying glass, you might still be able to see some remnants of that underlying design on the coin.
2004-D Wisconsin Quarter
(Extra Leaf Error)
The 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter contains a sixth leaf on the corn stalk that is not supposed to be there due to an unusual minting error. This error comes in two “flavors”: the “high leaf” and the “low leaf”. These quarters sell for thousands, depending on their condition.
1999-P Connecticut Quarter
(Broad struck Error)
Generally, broad struck error is an occurrence when coin minting occurs without a properly seated collar die, thus resulting in an unusually wider coin with a rim not fully defined. Most of the 1999-P Connecticut quarters with this error were fetched at auction for a very high amount.
1983-P Washington Quarter
(Double Die Reverse)
On the reverse of the 1983-P Washington quarter is an obvious double die error. The appearance of the letters and designs is such that it appears doubled. These are the very rare error coins whose collectors look for, and they can bring thousands if found in very fine condition.
2005-P Minnesota Quarter
(Double Die Error)
The double die errors could be easily found on the reverse of some 2005-P Minnesota quarters, especially on trees drawn close to the outline of the state. This rare type has made very impressive amounts in auction sales, making it a great find in circulation.
Error for Year Washington Quarter
(Silver Composition Error)
In 1965, the U.S. Mint switched from 90% sterling silver quarters to copper-nickel clad coins, but some of the 1965 quarters were struck on silver-collared planchets. If you come across one of the 1965 quarters that weighs closer to 6.25 grams instead of the standard 5.67 grams, you may just have stumbled upon a rare silver error quarter that could potentially be worth a fortune.
The 2000-P South Carolina Quarter
(Struck on Experimental Planchet)
Around the early 2000s, the U.S. Mint played around with a variety of materials in creating the states quarters. A few of the 2000-P South Carolina quarters were mistakenly stamped on experimental planchets, which produced coins that were oddly colored and textured. These quarters can be auctioned for tens of thousands of dollars.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
(Double Die Obverse)
The Bicentennial quarter of 1976 became very famous among collectors, some of whose quarters had an error resulting from a double die obverse and, inasmuch as thousands of bucks can easily be pocketed from one such error coin, are likely to be collectible.
1995-P Washington Quarter
(Misaligned die error)
This is referring to the coins that were struck off-centre from major misalignment of the dies. Some of the 1995-P Washington quarters were found extremely misaligned, and they are thus very collectible and valuable.
How to Identify the Error Quarters?
If you wish to commence the hunt for these unique quarters in your pocket change, there are worthwhile steps to take:
- Magnifying Glass: Many of the error details require magnifying glass for demonstration.
- Look for Doubles: Look for double writing or inscriptions cross over.
- Do weight your coins: Some errors have been proven onboard coins struck on the wrong metal, and so here is where the precision scale comes in very handy.
- Look at the Edge: Missing rimming, wrong reeding (the grooves on the edge of the coin) can show some errors.
- Compare With Regular Coins: Have a reference of normal quarters against which you can compare the said errors evident.
Where to Sell Your Rare Error Quarter
If indeed you have a very rare error quarter, have it graded by a coin grading service e.g. PCGS or NGC, and then sell your precious coin via:
- Online sites (eBay, Heritage Auctions, Great(Collections)
- Local Coin Shops
- Coin Shows and Collector Conventions
Final Thoughts
Rare error quarters are hidden treasures that might even still be in circulation today. Whether you’re a serious collector or just a passing observer, combing through your spare change might yield a great find. Be on the lookout for these nine rare error quarters and you might just stumble upon a coin worth millions!
FAQS:
Why do error quarters command such high value?
Errors, such as double strikes, off-center strikes, missing elements, or misprints made during minting, tend to be valuable, and these errors make the quarters all that much rarer and desirable among collectors.
Are these rare error quarters still in circulation?
Definitely! Some of those highly sought-after error quarters were released into circulation, and while these types of quarters can be rare, they can be found in your everyday pocket change.
Where would I sell a rare error quarter?
Valuable error quarters may be sold at coin shops, auction houses, and online, via eBay, Heritage Auctions, and PCGS.