Collecting state quarters has become a popular hobby among numismatists (coin collectors) and enthusiasts alike since the 50 State Quarters program was launched by the United States Mint in 1999. This initiative, which ran until 2008, featured unique designs for each of the 50 U.S. states on the reverse (tails side) of the quarters. While most of these coins are easily available at face value, some have grown in value due to errors, rarity, or other unique characteristics. Here is a countdown of the top 10 state quarters that are worth more than just their nominal 25 cents.
#10 – 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” Error Quarter
Due to a mint error, some of the Kansas state quarters have the phrase “In God We Trust” misspelled as “In God We Rust.” This error occurred when grease filled the ‘T’ in the word “Trust” during the minting process. Although these quarters can still be found in circulation, their unique error has made them more valuable to collectors.
#9 – 2005 Minnesota Doubled Die Quarter
The doubled die variety is a well-known error among state quarters, and the 2005 Minnesota quarter is one of these prized items. These quarters exhibit doubling in the tree line or in other parts of the design on the reverse of the coin. The value of a Minnesota doubled die quarter can vary depending on how dramatic the doubling is and the coin’s condition.
#8 – 2000-P South Carolina Off-Center Error Quarter
Off-center error coins occur when the coin blank is not properly seated in the coining press, resulting in a coin that is not perfectly round. A significant off-center error can make a coin like the 2000-P South Carolina quarter worth more than its face value, especially if the error is dramatic and if the coin’s key details remain visible.
#7 – 2001-P New York Quarter with Double Struck Error
A double struck coin is the result of the coin not ejecting properly from the die and getting struck again. The 2001-P New York quarter has been found with this type of error. Double struck coins with the second strike being off-center are particularly sought-after by collectors, as they are rarer and visually striking.
#6 – 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarters
The 2004-D Wisconsin quarter has a unique variation where an extra leaf – either an “Extra High Leaf” or “Extra Low Leaf” – appears on the ear of corn in the design. This is one of the more well-known errors in the state quarter series. Both variations increase the value of the coin, with the ‘Extra High Leaf’ typically commanding a higher premium than the ‘Extra Low Leaf.’
#5 – 2008-P Arizona Extra Cactus Leaves Error Quarter
The 2008-P Arizona quarter sometimes features extra cactus leaves to the right of the main cactus image on the reverse side. This error is the result of a die break, and coins exhibiting this feature are considered quite collectible. Their value depends on the size of the die break and the condition of the coin.
#4 – 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter
A broadstruck quarter is one that was struck outside of the retaining collar. As a result, the coin is not restricted by the collar and spreads outwards, appearing larger and misshapen. The 1999-P Connecticut broadstruck quarters are some of the earliest state quarter errors, making them an exciting find for collectors.
#3 – 2006-P Nevada Pooping Horse Error Quarter
This humorous error coin from the Nevada series shows what looks like an extra spurt of water coming from the rear end of one of the galloping horses. This pooping horse error is caused by die breaks or cuds (dislodgements of metal from the die itself) and has become a popular collectible. While not the most dignified, it demonstrates the range of quirky errors found in the state quarters series.
#2 – 2004-P Florida Quarter with a Missing Clad Layer
The 2004-P Florida quarter sometimes can be found with a missing clad layer (the copper-nickel jacket that covers the copper core of the coin) on one side of the coin. These errors occur during the layering process before the coin is struck. Quarters missing a clad layer look dramatically different from regular coins – either the copper core is exposed or missing, resulting in a lighter weight and off-color appearance, enhancing its collectible value.
#1 – 2005-P “Speared Bison” Jefferson Nickel
While not a state quarter, this nickel deserves the top spot due to its high-profile error and value. The 2005-P Jefferson nickel with the American bison on the reverse mistakenly shows a significant die gouge that creates the impression of the bison being speared through its back. This error garnered substantial attention and has become an iconic coin among collectors, often fetching significant amounts on the market.
Though these represent a selection of the state quarters (and a bonus nickel) worth money, the true value of any collectible coin hinges on factors such as rarity, condition, demand, and the specific details of any given error or variety. Collecting these coins can be a delightful hobby, offering a combination of historical intrigue, artistic appreciation, and the thrill of the hunt for those exciting and unusual pieces that stand out from the crowd.
Please note that the market for collectible coins can fluctuate, and values can change over time. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional numismatist or a reputable coin dealer to get the most accurate and up-to-date information when determining the worth of any collectible coin.