Modern U.S. quarters might seem like ordinary coins, but some are surprisingly valuable. Since 1965, a few quarters with unique errors, low mint numbers, or special designs have captured collectors’ interest and can be worth much more than their face value of 25 cents. This guide explores the 10 most valuable modern quarters, highlighting what makes each one special and how much they’re worth today.
Valuable Modern Quarters and What Makes Them Special
Let’s take a closer look at these rare coins and why they’ve become so sought-after.
1. 1965 Silver Washington Quarter Error
When the U.S. Mint stopped using 90% silver for quarters in 1965, they switched to a copper-nickel material. However, a few quarters from 1965 were accidentally made using the leftover silver planchets from 1964. These “error coins” are extremely rare.
- Value: These rare quarters can sell for $7,000 to $10,000, depending on their condition.
2. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Struck on 1941 Canadian Quarter)
A fascinating error happened in 1970 when a U.S. quarter was mistakenly struck on a 1941 Canadian quarter planchet, making it thinner and giving it unique markings.
- Value: One of these error coins sold for over $35,000 at auction, making it highly valuable.
3. 1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
The “Spitting Horse” quarter from Delaware has a noticeable die crack on the reverse side, making it look like the horse on the coin is “spitting.”
- Value: Depending on how visible the error is, these quarters can be worth between $20 and $50.
4. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
Some 2004 Wisconsin quarters show an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side, either pointing up or down. This unusual error was caused by a die mistake.
- Value: Collectors value these quarters between $50 and $300.
5. 2005 Minnesota Double Die Quarter
In 2005, a small batch of Minnesota quarters was produced with a “double die” error, resulting in an extra row of trees in the background.
- Value: Based on how prominent the doubling is, these quarters can sell for $50 to $100.
6. 1983-P Washington Quarter
Due to the lack of mint sets in 1982 and 1983, high-quality quarters from these years are rare. The 1983-P quarter is especially hard to find in excellent condition.
- Value: These high-grade coins are valued between $20 and $50.
7. 1982-P Washington Quarter
Similar to the 1983-P, the 1982-P quarter is rare in high grades since there were no mint sets produced that year, making pristine coins harder to come by.
- Value: These quarters can be worth between $10 and $30 if they are in uncirculated condition.
8. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error Varieties)
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter features a unique design to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary. Some of these quarters have error varieties, such as double strikes or off-center strikes, which make them especially valuable.
- Value: Depending on the type of error, these coins can range from $100 to $500.
9. 1999 Georgia State Quarter (Clad Layer Missing Error)
Some 1999 Georgia quarters were minted without an outer clad layer, giving one side a copper appearance. This missing clad layer error is rare and valuable.
- Value: These coins typically sell for between $200 and $500.
10. 2001-P Double Struck New York Quarter
In 2001, some New York quarters were double-struck, with the second strike appearing off-center. This dramatic error makes them highly collectible.
- Value: These rare error coins can sell for between $1,000 and $2,500.
Overview Table of the Most Valuable Modern Quarters
| Year | Mint Mark | Error/Variety | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | None | Silver Planchet Error | $7,000 – $10,000 |
| 1970 | S | Struck on 1941 Canadian Quarter | Over $35,000 |
| 1999 | P | Spitting Horse Die Crack | $20 – $50 |
| 2004 | D | Extra Leaf Error | $50 – $300 |
| 2005 | None | Double Die (Extra Trees) | $50 – $100 |
| 1983 | P | High-Grade Scarcity | $20 – $50 |
| 1982 | P | High-Grade Scarcity | $10 – $30 |
| 1976 | None | Bicentennial Error Varieties | $100 – $500 |
| 1999 | P | Clad Layer Missing Error | $200 – $500 |
| 2001 | P | Double Struck Error | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Conclusion
While most quarters are worth only 25 cents, a few carry extraordinary value due to errors, low mintage, or unique designs. These coins, often still found in circulation, are exciting for collectors and even casual coin enthusiasts. By learning to recognize key characteristics and following current market trends, you could discover a hidden treasure among your spare change. Keep an eye on the quarters you come across—one of them might be worth a small fortune!
FAQ’s
Why are some modern quarters worth more than others?
Some modern quarters become valuable due to unique errors, such as being struck on the wrong metal or showing unusual design flaws. Low mintage numbers and special editions also increase a coin’s rarity and value.
What does “mint mark” mean, and how does it affect value?
A mint mark is a small letter on the coin indicating the U.S. Mint location where it was made (e.g., “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver). Certain mint marks are rarer in specific years, which can make a quarter more valuable to collectors.
How can I get my quarter appraised?
To have a quarter appraised, you can visit a coin dealer, a coin show, or a professional coin grading service. An appraisal will help confirm the coin’s authenticity and estimated value, especially if you suspect it has a rare error or is in excellent condition.