State quarters may seem like common coins, but some are worth far more than their face value. These highly sought-after quarters are rare due to minting errors, low mintage, or experimental designs, making them coveted by collectors. While most state quarters are only worth 25 cents, a few can be worth thousands of dollars.
Here’s a list of the 10 most valuable state quarters that every collector should know about.
Table of Contents
- 1 1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
- 2 2003-D Maine State Quarter
- 3 2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
- 4 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter: Extra Leaf Low
- 5 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
- 6 1999-P Delaware State Quarter
- 7 1999-P Pennsylvania State Quarter (Struck on Experimental Planchet)
- 8 2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
- 9 2004-P Texas State Quarter (Grease Strike Through Error)
- 10 2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
- 11 FAQs
1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
In 1999, the U.S. Mint conducted tests with state quarters made from different alloys to determine the best metal for the upcoming Sacagawea dollar. Delaware was one of five states involved in this experiment.
These experimental alloy quarters were produced in small quantities, making them extremely rare and valuable. A graded MS66 Delaware experimental alloy quarter sold for $4,888 at auction, setting a record for this coin.
2003-D Maine State Quarter
Released on June 2, 2003, the Maine state quarter was minted at the Denver Mint. While circulated Maine quarters are common, finding one in mint condition—especially MS67 or higher—is very rare.
In 2017, a 2003-D Maine state quarter graded MS68 sold for $2,300 at Heritage Auctions.
2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
The 2000-P South Carolina state quarter is one of the most valuable in high grades. While most of these coins are worth face value, finding an MS69 specimen is incredibly rare.
In 2018, an MS69 South Carolina state quarter sold for $8,000, making it one of the most expensive state quarters ever sold.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter: Extra Leaf Low
The 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarters are legendary among error coins. These quarters were mistakenly struck with an extra leaf on the left side of the corn husk—one version with a low leaf and another with a high leaf.
In 2020, a low-grade MS67 example sold for $6,000, making it one of the most valuable minting errors in the state quarter series.
1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
The 1999-P Connecticut state quarter was also part of the Sacagawea experimental alloy tests. These quarters are distinguishable by their heavier weight and golden color, unlike regular Connecticut quarters.
An MS69 example of this rare quarter sold for an impressive $10,500 in 2018.
1999-P Delaware State Quarter
The 1999-P Delaware state quarter was the first coin released under the Statehood Quarter Program, honoring Delaware as the first state to join the Union. Many collectors saved these quarters when they were first issued, making mint-state examples difficult to find today.
In 2008, a graded MS66 Delaware state quarter sold for $4,888 at auction.
1999-P Pennsylvania State Quarter (Struck on Experimental Planchet)
Like the Delaware and Connecticut quarters, the 1999-P Pennsylvania state quarter was struck on a Sacagawea planchet during the experimental phase. This makes it a rare and valuable collectible.
A graded MS67 example sold for $2,520, according to the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC).
2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
The 2006-D North Dakota state quarter, issued on August 28, 2006, is rare in high grades. While circulated coins are common, finding one graded MS68 is nearly impossible.
In 2017, an MS68 North Dakota quarter sold for $3,760 at auction.
2004-P Texas State Quarter (Grease Strike Through Error)
The 2004-P Texas state quarter features an interesting grease strike-through error, which happens when grease clogs the die, causing parts of the design to disappear. This makes these quarters highly collectible.
An example graded MS69 sold for $10,000, while other MS69 Texas quarters without errors are valued at around $3,055.
2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
The 2008-D New Mexico state quarter is known for its high-quality strike and superior finish compared to its Philadelphia counterpart. While circulated coins are worth face value, high-grade examples are rare.
An MS68 New Mexico quarter sold for $3,500 in 2017, making it a highly sought-after coin among collectors.
Collecting state quarters is a fun and rewarding hobby, but observing one of these rare and valuable coins can make it even more exciting. Keep an eye out for mint errors, experimental planchets, and high-grade specimens—you never know what you might find!
FAQs
What is the most valuable state quarter?
The 1999-P Connecticut experimental alloy quarter sold for $10,500.
What is a grease strike-through error?
It occurs when grease clogs the die, hiding parts of the coin design.
What makes a state quarter valuable?
Rarity, mint errors, low mintage, and high-grade condition.
What is the Wisconsin Extra Leaf quarter?
A 2004-D quarter with an extra leaf error on the corn husk.
Are circulated state quarters worth collecting?
Most are worth face value, but rare errors and high grades are valuable.
