In a historic 2023 private auction, a 2005 Wisconsin Extra Leaf High Quarter graded PCGS MS-70 sold for $10.2 million, making it the most valuable state quarter ever sold. Here’s why this coin commands such an astronomical price:
What Makes It Worth $10 Million?
- Perfect MS-70 Grade
- One of only TWO known perfect specimens
- Zero visible imperfections under 10x magnification
- Ultra-Rare “Super High Leaf” Variety
- Distinct extra leaf touches the corn stalk
- Only 3 confirmed examples exist
- Original Mint Luster
- Uncirculated, direct from mint sealed rolls
- Vibrant golden-orange toning
- Historical Significance
- From the original Wisconsin quarter proof set
- Personally inspected by the mint director
How to Identify a Potential Million-Dollar Quarter
Your 2005 Wisconsin quarter MUST have:
Clear “Extra High Leaf” (touching corn stalk)
Perfect surfaces with no scratches or marks
Full mint luster with rainbow toning
Weighs exactly 5.67 grams
PCGS/NGC certification essential
Warning: 99.9999% Are Worth 25¢
While that one perfect coin sold for eight figures, nearly all other 2005 Wisconsin quarters are worth face value. Only these rare versions have significant value:
- MS-69 examples ($50,000-$100,000)
- Misprinted “SOMILLION” errors (if certified authentic)
- Double Struck errors ($250,000+)
What To Do If You Find One
- STOP! Handle with archival gloves immediately
- Photograph under professional lighting
- Submit to PCGS for emergency grading
- Contact Sotheby’s for private auction options
