Coin collecting is an exciting hobby, and one of the most interesting types of coins to collect are error state quarters. These coins were originally designed to represent each U.S. state but sometimes were made with minting mistakes that increased their value. Some of these error quarters are still out there in circulation, making it possible for collectors to find them in their change! In this article, we’ll explore ten of the most valuable state quarters with minting errors that are worth over $10,000. Keep reading to learn about the errors and how you can spot them.
Top 10 Error State Quarters Priced Over $10,000 That You Could Still Find
1. Delaware Quarter (Spitting Horse)
One of the most famous state quarter errors is the Delaware Quarter with the “spitting horse” design. A die crack in the horse’s mouth creates the illusion of the horse “spitting.” This rare error can make a quarter worth $10,000 or more.
2. Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf)
The Wisconsin Quarter has an error where an extra leaf appears on the corn stalk design. This mistake comes in two forms: a high leaf or a low leaf, both making the coin highly valuable. The value of this error can go as high as $12,000.
3. Minnesota Quarter (Extra Tree)
On the Minnesota Quarter, an extra tree appears due to die doubling, where the die used to strike the coin slightly shifts. This unusual mistake has made the coin a collector’s treasure, worth around $15,000.
4. Kansas Quarter (In God We Rust)
This humorous error happens because the die was filled with grease, causing the “T” in “Trust” to disappear, leaving “In God We Rust” instead. Its unique nature has made this quarter worth about $11,000.
5. Connecticut Quarter (Extra Branch)
In the Connecticut Quarter, an extra branch appears in the Charter Oak design due to die doubling. This flaw makes the coin more valuable, and collectors are willing to pay up to $10,500 for it.
6. Georgia Quarter (Weak Edge Lettering)
The Georgia Quarter features a rare error with weak or missing edge lettering. This mistake is not very common, which makes this coin highly valuable and sought after. The price can reach $10,000 or higher.
7. Nevada Quarter (Double Die)
The Nevada Quarter has a double die error, where the coin features doubled images or lettering. This error makes the coin worth $13,000, and it’s one of the more exciting finds for collectors.
8. Oregon Quarter (Trail Error)
On the Oregon Quarter, faint extra lines in the design create the appearance of a trail. This small, subtle error is highly prized among coin collectors, and some of these quarters have been valued at $10,500.
9. Arizona Quarter (Extra Cactus)
The Arizona Quarter has an extra cactus in its reverse design due to die doubling. This error makes it a rare and valuable find, with prices reaching up to $14,000.
10. South Carolina Quarter (Missing Letters)
This state quarter has missing or weakly struck letters due to minting problems. The missing letters make the coin rare and valuable, and collectors may be willing to pay over $10,000 for it.
What Makes an Error State Quarter Valuable?
The value of an error state quarter is determined by several factors. The rarity of the error is a huge factor—some errors are so rare that only a few coins exist. Additionally, the uniqueness of the error, like a “spitting horse” or an “extra cactus,” makes it more interesting and valuable. Lastly, the demand from collectors plays a major role in increasing a coin’s worth. If many collectors want the same coin, the price can rise significantly.
Where Can You Find Error State Quarters?
Finding these rare state quarters can be a challenge, but it is possible! Some error coins are still in circulation, meaning you might stumble upon one while going through your change. They can also be purchased from coin shops or online marketplaces that specialize in rare and collectible coins. Make sure to check trusted sites and dealers for authentic coins.
How Can You Verify the Authenticity of an Error Quarter?
It’s important to confirm that your error state quarter is genuine, as counterfeit coins can be difficult to spot. One way to verify a coin’s authenticity is by having it graded by a professional service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These services will evaluate the condition and authenticity of the coin. If you’re unsure about a coin you have, it’s always a good idea to seek expert advice.
Conclusion
Error state quarters, especially those with rare flaws like the “spitting horse” or “extra cactus,” are some of the most valuable coins for collectors. While these errors may seem small, they tell a big story about the minting process and are prized by numismatists for their rarity and historical significance. If you’re lucky enough to find one in circulation, it could be worth thousands of dollars. Always make sure to verify the authenticity of your coins and keep an eye out for these elusive treasures in your change!
FAQs
1. What is an error state quarter?
An error state quarter is a coin that was minted with a mistake, like an extra letter, design flaw, or doubled image. These errors make the coins rare and valuable to collectors.
2. Why are error state quarters valuable?
Error state quarters are valuable because they are rare and unique. The imperfections or mistakes in the design are highly sought after by collectors. Depending on the error, some of these coins can be worth over $10,000.
3. How can I find an error state quarter?
Error state quarters can still be found in circulation, which means you might come across them in your regular change. You can also find them in coin shops, online marketplaces, or at auctions.