10 Most Valuable State Quarter Coins: Collecting state quarters is more than a fun pastime; it’s a rewarding journey into discovering coins with values far beyond their face amount. While most quarters in circulation don’t hold additional monetary worth, some stand out due to their rarity, minting errors, or pristine condition. Below is a guide to the most valuable state quarters and why collectors treasure them.
1. 1999-P Experimental Delaware State Quarter
In 1999, the U.S. Mint conducted alloy tests for the Sacagawea dollar using Delaware and other state quarters. These experimental planchets were produced in extremely limited quantities, making them exceptionally rare.
One graded MS66 Delaware experimental alloy quarter fetched an impressive $4,888 at auction, cementing its status as one of the most valuable coins in the Statehood Quarters program.
2. 2003-D Maine State Quarter
The Maine quarter, released in 2003, is generally common, but examples in near-perfect condition are exceedingly rare.
In 2017, a high-grade MS68 Maine quarter sold for $2,300, highlighting the premium collectors place on pristine specimens.
3. 2000-P South Carolina State Quarter
The 2000 South Carolina quarter is another collectible rarity in mint-state condition. Coins graded MS68 or MS69 are particularly sought after.
In 2018, a South Carolina quarter in MS69 condition was valued at an astounding $8,000, showcasing its desirability.
4. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter is famous for its unique minting error involving an extra leaf on the corn husk. This error appears in two variations: “Low Leaf” and “High Leaf.”
In 2020, a Low Leaf Wisconsin quarter graded MS67 sold for $6,000, proving the significant value of error coins.
5. 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
Connecticut’s 1999 quarter is another experimental Sacagawea planchet coin, known for its gold hue, thicker structure, and smooth edges.
In 2018, an MS69 Connecticut quarter sold for a remarkable $10,500, ranking it among the most expensive state quarters ever.
6. 1999-P Delaware State Quarter
As the inaugural coin in the Statehood Quarters series, the Delaware quarter holds special historical significance. High-grade examples, such as an MS66 version, have sold for $4,888, making it a collector’s favorite.
7. 1999-P Pennsylvania MS67 Experimental Planchet
Pennsylvania’s 1999 quarter, like others from the same year, was struck on experimental planchets. Its rarity makes it highly desirable for numismatists.
An MS67 specimen of this type is valued at approximately $2,520, according to expert grading companies.
8. 2006-D North Dakota State Quarter
While common in circulated condition, the 2006 North Dakota quarter is rare in mint-state grades of MS67 and above.
In 2017, a flawless MS68 North Dakota quarter was auctioned for $3,760, reflecting its scarcity in premium condition.
9. 2004-P Texas State Quarter
The Texas quarter from 2004 is notable for a minting anomaly known as the “Grease Strike Through Error,” which results in missing design details due to grease on the die.
A perfect MS69 Texas quarter with no imperfections sold for an incredible $10,000, with even standard mint-state examples valued at thousands of dollars.
10. 2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
The Denver-minted New Mexico quarter is particularly sought after for its sharper features and superior finish compared to the Philadelphia-minted version.
High-grade examples (MS67 or higher) are exceedingly rare, making them valuable collectibles that command significant prices.
Final Thoughts
State quarters are more than everyday currency—they’re an opportunity to uncover hidden treasures. By understanding which coins to watch for and why they’re valuable, collectors can elevate their collections and potentially find coins worth thousands of dollars. Keep an eye out for these unique quarters, as they could turn a casual hobby into a lucrative pursuit!