State quarters from the U.S. Mint’s 1999–2008 program were made in huge numbers, but a few errors and rare varieties can be surprisingly valuable. This guide lists seven of the most valuable state quarters collectors look for, how to identify them, and what to do if you find one in your change.
7 Most Valuable State Quarters to Look For
Below are seven types and specific state quarter varieties that often carry premium values. Each entry explains what to inspect, why the coin is valuable, and a realistic value range based on condition and rarity.
1. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf (High and Low)
What to look for: Examine the ear of corn on the Wisconsin quarter. There are two known “extra leaf” varieties — a high leaf and a low leaf — showing a tiny additional leaf to the right of the ear.
Why it’s valuable: The extra leaf errors are striking and were produced in limited quantities, making them among the most sought-after state quarter varieties.
- Typical value range: $50–$2,500 depending on variety and grade.
- Where to inspect: Use a 10x loupe and compare to a standard image to spot the tiny extra leaf.
2. Proof and Silver Proof State Quarters (S Mint Mark)
What to look for: Proof coins struck at the San Francisco mint (marked with an S) and silver proof versions are struck on different planchets and often have frosted devices with mirrored fields.
Why it’s valuable: Proofs and especially silver proofs are produced in lower numbers and appeal to collectors. Uncirculated proofs in original packaging can command premiums.
- Typical value range: $10–$150 for common proofs; rare proof errors can be higher.
- Tip: Check mint packaging or the S mint mark on the obverse.
3. Doubled Die State Quarters
What to look for: Doubling shows as clear, repeated outlines on letters, numerals, or design elements. Check the date, mint mark, and legend with a magnifier.
Why it’s valuable: Doubled die errors are noticed immediately by collectors and can raise a quarter’s value substantially when striking is dramatic.
- Typical value range: $25–$2,000 depending on severity and demand.
- Example areas: Look at the date and STATE name for duplicated impressions.
4. Off-Center and Broadstrike Errors
What to look for: Off-center strikes will show part of the design missing or cut off, while broadstrikes lack a full rim and appear stretched.
Why it’s valuable: Large, dramatic errors are uncommon and draw collectors who pay premiums for bold examples.
- Typical value range: $20 for minor offsets to several hundred or more for dramatic strikes.
- Inspection tip: Any coin missing a significant portion of the design should be examined by a dealer or grader.
5. Clipped Planchet and Planchet Errors
What to look for: A clipped planchet will have a curved or straight missing section from the coin edge. Planchet laminations or wrong-metal planchets are rarer and more valuable.
Why it’s valuable: Minting mistakes with the metal blank are less common and can be highly desirable.
- Typical value range: $10–$1,000+, depending on the error type and eye appeal.
6. Rare Mint Mark Varieties
What to look for: Some quarters were produced in different mints (P, D, S). Occasional repunched mint marks (RPM) or missing mint marks are collectible.
Why it’s valuable: Mint mark anomalies and repunching are collectible because they are unusual and verifiable varieties.
- Typical value range: $20–$1,500 depending on the variety and grading.
7. High-Grade Circulated and MS-graded State Quarters
What to look for: Coins with sharp details, no wear, and full luster are much more valuable. Mint State (MS) graded coins by PCGS or NGC get the best prices.
Why it’s valuable: Even common dates in MS65 or higher can be worth multiples of their face value to collectors.
- Typical value range: $20–$5,000 for especially scarce high-grade examples.
- Tip: Submit candidate coins to a reputable grading service for a reliable value.
How to Spot Valuable State Quarters
Finding a valuable state quarter is often a matter of careful inspection and practice. Use these practical tips to evaluate coins quickly.
Tools and quick checks
- 10x loupe or magnifying glass to inspect small details.
- Good lighting and a flat surface to view the entire rim and fields.
- Reference images or a coin guide to compare known varieties.
- Digital scale and calipers if you suspect wrong-metal or altered coins.
Steps to evaluate a suspect coin
- Compare the coin to a standard example, focusing on the date, mint mark, and any design oddities.
- Photograph both sides under consistent lighting for documentation.
- Ask a local coin dealer for a quick opinion or submit to an online collector forum for crowd input.
- For high-value suspects, consider professional grading before selling.
Real-world Example
A small-town cashier found a 2004-D Wisconsin quarter with a distinct extra leaf while counting daily register coins. She had it authenticated by a coin dealer and sold it to a collector for over $1,000 after verification. The example shows how careful inspection can turn common pocket change into a profitable find.
What to Do If You Find One
If you find a potential rarity, document the coin with clear photos and avoid cleaning or altering it. Consult a reputable coin dealer or submit it to a grading service for authentication. For small finds, online collector marketplaces and local coin clubs are good places to get multiple opinions before selling.
With a loupe and a bit of knowledge, you might already have a small fortune hiding in your change. Start inspecting thoughtfully and you could uncover one of the valuable state quarters listed above.