The U.S. State Quarters Program ran from 1999 to 2008, introducing a series of quarters that showcase unique designs for each state. While billions of these coins were minted, a select few have become particularly valuable due to limited production runs, interesting errors, or unique variations.
10 Rarest State Quarters
1. 2008-D Oklahoma Quarter
The 2008-D Oklahoma quarter is one of the rarest, with a mintage of just 194.6 million. It was released during a tough economic period, making it less common in circulation. While worn coins usually hold face value, uncirculated versions can be worth about $1.25 or more.
2. 2004-P Iowa Quarter
Next is the 2004-P Iowa quarter, which features a charming one-room schoolhouse. With a mintage of 213.8 million, this coin is also sought after. Uncirculated examples can fetch over $1 due to their appealing design.
3. 2002-P Ohio Quarter
The 2002-P Ohio quarter has a higher mintage of 414.8 million, but pristine examples can be quite valuable, with some selling for over $3,500 at auctions. Its attractive design makes it a popular choice among collectors.
4. 1999-P Delaware Quarter
As the first state quarter released, the 1999-P Delaware quarter has a significant mintage of 774 million. However, its value can increase dramatically if you find one of the rare “Spitting Horse” error coins, which can sell for between $5 and $30 depending on the condition.
5. 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
The 2004-D Wisconsin quarter is notable for its error an extra leaf on the corn stalk design. With uncirculated versions selling for over $100, this quarter is a favorite among error coin collectors.
| Quarter | Mintage (Millions) | Typical Value (Uncirculated) |
|---|---|---|
| 2008-D Oklahoma | 194.6 | $1.25+ |
| 2004-P Iowa | 213.8 | $1.10+ |
| 2002-P Ohio | 414.8 | Up to $3,525 (auction) |
| 1999-P Delaware | 774.8 | $5–$30 (error coin) |
| 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” | N/A | $100+ (error coin) |
6. 2005-P Minnesota “Doubled Die” Quarter
The 2005-P Minnesota quarter features a “doubled die” error, where an extra tree appears in the design. While minor variations might be worth around $5, more prominent errors can reach up to $50.
7. 2008-D Alaska Quarter
With a mintage of 251.8 million, the 2008-D Alaska quarter showcases a grizzly bear with a salmon. Some coins from this series have missing details, which can boost their value to around $80.
8. 2002-D Indiana Quarter
The 2002-D Indiana quarter has a lower mintage of 327 million and features an Indy race car. Uncirculated examples can be valued at over $1, with exceptional specimens selling for as much as $3,700 at auction.
9. 2000-P South Carolina Quarter
Featuring the state bird and tree, the 2000-P South Carolina quarter has a high mintage of 742 million. Despite this, certain varieties in mint condition have fetched up to $3,525 at recent auctions.
10. 2000-P New Hampshire Quarter
Lastly, the 2000-P New Hampshire quarter is known for an error where the state name is missing from the reverse side. Coins exhibiting this error can sometimes sell for hundreds of dollars, making them highly collectible.
While many state quarters are worth just their face value, some can be highly prized based on errors, low production numbers, or their condition. Keeping an eye out for these special quarters might just lead you to a hidden treasure in your pocket change!
FAQs
What makes state quarters valuable?
State quarters gain value primarily due to limited production numbers, unique errors, and their overall condition.
How can I tell if my quarter is an error coin?
Look for unusual features such as extra details, missing elements, or doubled images. Consulting a coin grading expert can help determine authenticity and value.
Are all state quarters collectible?
While all state quarters are popular, only certain coins, especially those with errors or in mint condition, are considered more valuable.
What is the most valuable state quarter?
The 2002-P Ohio quarter is among the most valuable, with some uncirculated examples selling for over $3,500 at auctions.
How can I find rare state quarters?
Check your pocket change and examine state quarters carefully for unique features or errors. You can also visit coin shops, attend coin shows, or explore online marketplaces to find rare coins.
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