The 50 State Quarters Program (1999–2008) and the America the Beautiful Quarters (2010–2021) introduced millions of quarters into circulation—but not all of them were minted flawlessly. Some coins were produced with minting errors, and these mistakes can significantly raise the value of a quarter for collectors. The rarer or more dramatic the flaw, the more sought-after the coin becomes.
Common Types of Quarter Mint Errors
Here are the most frequently encountered errors that can make a quarter much more valuable:
- Doubled Die Errors: Caused by misalignment during striking, resulting in doubled images or lettering.
- Off-Center Strikes: When the coin design is not centered, leaving part of the surface blank.
- Die Cracks and Cuds: Raised lines or blobs from damaged dies that transfer onto the coin.
- Missing Clad Layer: Reveals the copper core due to a missing outer nickel layer.
- Wrong Planchet: The quarter is struck on a blank intended for another coin (like a dime or nickel).
- Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter (2004-D): One of the most famous, where an extra leaf appears on the corn stalk.
Such errors elevate the collectible status of a coin, with some fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Top Valuable State Quarter Error Coins
Although fewer errors appear in modern minting, many past mistakes have created coins that collectors treasure today. Below are some of the most valuable quarter errors ever discovered:
1. 2005-P Minnesota Quarter – Extra Tree Error
This coin was supposed to depict a serene lake scene with trees, but some show additional “lumps” that look like extra trees. Using a magnifier, inspect the area to the right of the smallest tree. If extra shapes are present, you may have a rare variety.
- Value: Up to $336 (MS66)
2. 1965 SMS Washington Quarter – Broadstruck Error
Though not a state quarter, this Special Mint Set piece is notable. A broadstruck error gives it an unusually wide appearance, with extra space at the edges and a shiny, reflective surface.
- Value: Varies; often collectible for its eye appeal.
3. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter – Extra High Leaf
This error includes an extra leaf pointing upwards from the corn stalk. It’s visually distinct and popular among collectors.
- Value: Up to $2,530 (MS66)
4. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Low Leaf
Another version of the same error shows the extra leaf pointing downward. Interestingly, this error can be found without a mint mark on the reverse, though it was made in Denver.
- Value: Up to $6,000 (MS67)
5. 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter – Double Die
A doubled die error affects the lettering and design elements. Look for doubling in “Ellington,” the piano keys, or the depiction of Duke Ellington.
- Value: Very rare; few known examples certified.
6. 1999-P Connecticut Quarter – Feeder Finger Error
Feeder fingers guide blanks into place, but sometimes they malfunction. This quarter was struck when a feeder finger interfered with the minting process, resulting in a distorted coin.
- Value: Can be worth thousands due to rarity.
7. 2002-P Indiana Quarter – Struck on Dime Planchet
In this error, Indiana quarters were minted on dime-sized planchets. The smaller blank causes design elements to run off the edge.
- Value: Rare and collectible; specific value varies.
8. 1999-P Georgia Quarter – Double Denomination with Susan B. Anthony Dollar
A rare hybrid error where a Georgia quarter design was mistakenly struck on a blank meant for a Susan B. Anthony dollar. The result is a confusing mix of two coin designs.
- Value: Several thousand dollars at auction.
9. 2000-P Maryland Quarter – Struck on Dime Planchet
Similar to the Indiana error, these Maryland quarters were mistakenly struck on dime planchets. George Washington’s portrait reaches nearly to the edge of the coin.
- Value: High due to scarcity; potentially thousands at auction.
FAQs
1. Which State Quarter Errors Are the Most Valuable?
Some of the most prized errors include:
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf (High/Low) – $50 to $1,500+
1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” – $20 to $500+
2005-P Minnesota Doubled Die – $50 to $300+
2000-P New Hampshire Missing Clad Layer – $500+
1999 Georgia Off-Center Strike – Often hundreds to thousands
2. How Can I Identify an Error on My Quarter?
Look for the following signs:
Doubled lettering or design elements
Off-center or misaligned images
Extra design features (like an extra leaf)
Exposed copper core (missing clad layer)
Odd size or weight (indicates wrong planchet)
3. What Are State Quarter Errors Worth?
Values range widely:
Minor errors: $5–$50
Major errors: $100–$1,000+
Rare certified examples: Up to $6,000 or more
4. Where Can I Sell Error Quarters?
You can sell through:
Coin dealers specializing in mint errors (e.g., Bullion Shark)
Coin shows or collector conventions
Third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC) for authentication
5. Are All Quarter Errors Valuable?
Not all errors have high value. Minor flaws like small die cracks are usually worth just a few dollars. However, rare or dramatic errors can command much higher prices.
