Launched by the U.S. Mint in 1999, the State Quarter Series remains one of American history’s most successful and widely collected coin programs. Each of the state quarters features a unique design representing one of the 50 states, igniting public interest and drawing millions of Americans into coin collecting.
While most state quarters still only hold their face value of twenty-five cents, a handful have become highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or rare variations, numerous state quarters worth money could be hiding in your pocket change right now.
Let’s dive into the most valuable quarters to look for and what makes them special.
Why State Quarters Remain Popular Among Collectors
The State Quarters Program produced over 50 designs, each reflecting a state’s history, landmarks, or cultural icons. Collectors are drawn to these coins not only for their artistry but also because:
- Errors and varieties—like double dies, missing clad layers, and die breaks—can significantly boost a coin’s value.
- Limited mintage and silver proofs make certain quarters harder to find and more desirable.
- Many rare quarters from this series are still circulating, making it an affordable entry point for new collectors and an exciting hunt for experienced numismatists.
Special Editions and Silver Proof State Quarters
Circulating state quarters were struck at the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) Mints. Meanwhile, proof coins, including those struck in 90% silver, were minted in San Francisco (S). These silver-proof quarters were never released into circulation. They were sold only as part of premium sets, giving them a higher collectible value.
Due to their purity and limited production, silver proof coins are among the most valuable state quarters and are frequently found in high-end collections.
Top State Quarters Worth Money
Here are ten of the most valuable quarters to look for, many of which are error coins or low-mintage varieties from the State Quarter Series:
1. 1999-P Delaware Quarter (Spitting Horse Error)
The Delaware quarter features Caesar Rodney on horseback, commemorating his historic ride for independence. The “Spitting Horse” error occurs due to a die crack, creating a line that appears as if the horse is spitting. This error is sought after for its unique visual appeal.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $0.50–$1 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $5–$10 |
| Mint State (MS65) | $20–$50 |
| Spitting Horse Error (MS65) | $100–$500+ |
- Error Type: Die crack in front of the horse’s mouth, appearing like the horse is spitting.
- Value: $100–$500+ in Mint State
- Why It Matters: The first state quarter is one of the most famous errors from the series.
2. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (High/Low Leaf Error)
The Wisconsin quarter showcases a cow, a wheel of cheese, and an ear of corn. Errors with an extra “high” or “low” leaf on the corn stalk were created by intentional die modifications, making these quarters rare and highly collectible.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $1–$2 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $10–$20 |
| Mint State (MS65) | $400–$1,500+ |
- Error Type: Extra “high” or “low” leaf on the corn stalk.
- Value: $400–$1,500+
- Why It Matters: Extremely rare and believed to result from intentional die modifications.
3. 2005 Minnesota Quarter (Extra Tree Error)
The Minnesota quarter depicts the state’s lakes and forests. Some coins show an additional tree in the design due to die doubling, a type of error that fascinates collectors.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $1–$2 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $5–$15 |
| Mint State (MS65) | $100–$600 |
- Error Type: Doubling creates the appearance of an extra tree.
- Value: $100–$600
- Why It Matters: Die doubling errors are highly collectible and visually interesting.
4. 1999-P Georgia Quarter (Clad Layer Missing Error)
The Georgia quarter features the state’s outline, a peach, and live oak branches. Some coins were struck with missing clad layers, exposing the copper core.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $2–$5 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $10–$20 |
| Missing Clad Layer | $200–$800+ |
- Error Type: Missing outer clad layer exposes the copper core.
- Value: $200–$800+
- Why It Matters: The 1999 Georgia quarter error is one of the State Quarter Series’s earliest and most dramatic errors.
5. 2005 Kansas Quarter (Humpback Bison Error)
The Kansas quarter showcases a bison. The “Humpback Bison” error, caused by a die break, gives the appearance of an extra bump on the bison’s back.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $1–$3 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $5–$15 |
| Error Coin (MS65) | $150–$500+ |
- Error Type: Die break distorts the bison’s shape.
- Value: $150–$500+
- Why It Matters: This lesser-known error is a hidden gem among state quarters worth money.
6. 2015 Homestead Quarter (Snow on the Roof Error)
The Homestead quarter depicts a pioneer home. Die chips on some coins create the “Snow on the Roof” error, which adds value due to its unique look.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $1–$3 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $5–$15 |
| Error Coin (MS65) | $100–$600 |
- Error Type: Die chips make it look like snow has settled on the house’s roof.
- Value: $100–$600
- Why It Matters: Small but distinctive error that adds unique value.
7. 2020-W Weir Farm Quarter
The Weir Farm quarter was part of the limited “W” mintmark series struck at the West Point Mint. Only 2 million of each design were minted, making these coins rare and collectible.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Fine (F) | $5–$10 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $15–$30 |
| Mint State (MS65+) | $20–$100 |
- Feature: West Point Mint “W” mintmark.
- Value: $20–$100+
- Why It Matters: Only 2 million of each 2020 design were minted at West Point, creating immediate scarcity.
Error Coin Values List at a Glance
| Coin | G (Fine) | VF (Very Fine) | XF (Extremely Fine) | AU (About Uncirculated) | MS (Mint State) |
| 1999-P Delaware Quarter (Spitting Horse Error) | $0.50–$1 | $5–$10 | $5–$10 | – | $20–$50 (Spitting Horse: $100–$500+) |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (High/Low Leaf Error) | $1–$2 | $10–$20 | $10–$20 | – | $400–$1,500+ |
| 2005 Minnesota Quarter (Extra Tree Error) | $1–$2 | $5–$15 | $5–$15 | – | $100–$600 |
| 1999-P Georgia Quarter (Clad Layer Missing Error) | $2–$5 | $10–$20 | $10–$20 | – | $200–$800+ |
| 2007 Idaho Quarter (Humpback Bison Error) | $1–$3 | $5–$15 | $5–$15 | – | $150–$500+ |
| 2015 Homestead Quarter (Snow on the Roof Error) | $1–$3 | $5–$15 | $5–$15 | – | $100–$600 |
| 2020-W Weir Farm Quarter | $5–$10 | $15–$30 | $15–$30 | – | $20–$100 |
Buying Valuable State Quarters on eBay
Buying valuable State Quarters on eBay can be a great way to grow your collection, especially if you’re searching for rarities, errors, or high-grade specimens. However, the online marketplace comes with both opportunities and risks. To ensure a safe and successful purchase, collectors should take a few key steps before clicking “Buy Now” or placing a bid.
Always buy from reputable sellers. Look for eBay sellers with high feedback scores and a long history of positive reviews. Check for sellers with high positive feedback (ideally 99% or higher) and read recent reviews to see how they handle issues like shipping delays, item descriptions, or customer service. Avoid sellers that ship from China or if there is any feedback involving disputes over authenticity or condition.
Quality images are essential when buying coins online. A good listing will include clear, close-up photos of both the obverse and reverse of the coin, ideally under good lighting so you can see any potential wear, toning, or damage.
The description should mention the mint mark, year, coin grade (if applicable), and any known errors or distinguishing features. Be wary of vague listings or stock images—those may indicate the seller doesn’t have the coin in hand or is hiding flaws.
Whenever possible, choose coins that are certified by PCGS or NGC. These coins have undergone an independent, professional assessment of authenticity and condition. Certified coins come in sealed holders (often called “slabs”) and include a label with the grade, year, and other key info.
Buying graded coins can help ensure you get exactly what you’re paying for, especially when shopping for high-value state quarters, such as those with well-known errors like the 1999 Georgia quarter error or the Wisconsin High Leaf variation.
Conclusion: Start Hunting for State Quarters Worth Money
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, the State Quarter Series offers a wide variety of collectible opportunities. From the 1999 Georgia quarter error to rare silver proofs and “W” mintmark rarities, there are plenty of valuable quarters to look for in your change, coin rolls, or local coin shop. With patience and research, collectors can find valuable coins like those listed here to enhance their collections and investments.
