Think your spare change is just pocket filler? Think again. Some state quarters with minting errors are turning up in circulation—and they’re worth a small fortune. In fact, a few have sold for as much as $30,000 at auction. Here’s how to identify these hidden treasures and what makes them so valuable.
Top 3 State Quarter Errors Worth Big Money
1. 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
- Estimated Value: $30,000+ (Grade: MS65)
- What to Look For: An extra leaf on the corn stalk—comes in two varieties: High Leaf and Low Leaf
- Rarity: Estimated 50,000 or fewer in existence
- Recent Sale: $32,900 (PCGS MS66, sold in 2023)
Tip: Use a 10x magnifier to spot the leaf just above the cheese wheel.
2. 2005-P Minnesota “In God We Rust” Quarter
- Estimated Value: $17,000+ (MS65)
- Error Type: Die grease error causing the “T” in “TRUST” to disappear
- Why It’s Special: Rare in high grades, very popular with collectors
- Record Auction: $18,800 (NGC MS66, 2022)
Tip: Check the motto closely. If “TRUST” looks like “RUST,” you’ve got something special.
3. 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
- Value Range: $10,000–$12,000 (MS65)
- What It Is: Die crack from the horse’s mouth looks like it’s “spitting”
- Significance: First state quarter released; only a few high-grade examples exist
- Latest Sale: $12,075 (PCGS MS65, 2024)
Tip: This error is often subtle—look under strong light or use angled photos.
How to Identify Valuable Quarter Errors
Step-by-Step Checklist:
- Use a Loupe (10x+): Spot extra elements or missing letters
- Inspect the Edge: Check for collar cracks or off-center strikes
- Weigh It: A standard quarter should weigh 5.67g ±0.10g
Watch for Fakes:
- Tool marks or engraving lines
- Incorrect weight
- Unnatural-looking doubling or re-punching
Where to Find Error Quarters
- Bank Rolls: Grab $10 rolls of quarters and hunt at home
- U.S. Mint Sets (1999–2008): These can contain untouched errors
- CoinStar Reject Trays: Hidden gems often end up in reject slots
Real Story: A lucky collector pulled a 2004-D Extra Leaf from change—and sold it for $28,000!
Why You Should Get Your Quarter Certified
Certified = More $$$
- Coins graded by PCGS or NGC often sell for 3–5x more
- Authentication boosts credibility and value
- Grading also provides a rarity report
Cost to Grade: Typically $25–$50 per coin
Best Places to Sell Rare Quarters
| Value Range | Best Selling Platform | Typical Seller Fees |
|---|---|---|
| $10,000+ | Heritage Auctions | ~15% |
| $1,000–$10,000 | GreatCollections | ~10% |
| Under $1,000 | eBay (certified only) | 12.9% |
Selling Tip: Include keywords like “state quarter error,” “mint mistake,” or “rare variety” in your listing title.
Free Evaluation – Is Your Quarter Worth Thousands?
Got a suspicious-looking state quarter? We’ll take a look—for free.
Send Clear Photos To:
Email: quarters@pennyverse.info
Subject Line: “STATE QUARTER ERROR”
You’ll Receive:
Expert error attribution- Current market valuation
- Advice on selling for top dollar
Start checking your change—your next big payday could be in your pocket. 
