Between 1999 and 2008, the U.S. Mint released the State Quarters series, celebrating the rich history and culture of all 50 states. While most of these quarters are worth their face value, a handful of error coins have become hot commodities among collectors. With some fetching $1,000 or more, these rare mistakes turn ordinary change into extraordinary finds. Here’s a breakdown of the top six State Quarter errors that could be hiding in your pocket.
1. 1999 Delaware Quarter – The “Spitting Horse” Error
What’s the Error?
On the Delaware quarter, which features Caesar Rodney on horseback, a die crack on some coins creates a raised line extending from the horse’s mouth, making it appear as though the horse is spitting.
Why It’s Valuable
As the first quarter in the State Quarters series, the “Spitting Horse” error holds special significance and is a favorite among collectors for its distinctive and amusing appearance.
Value Estimate
- Circulated: $20 to $75
- Uncirculated: $150 to $1,000+
How to Identify It
Check the reverse side under good lighting or with magnification. Look closely for a raised line near the horse’s mouth.
2. 2004 Wisconsin Quarter – Extra Leaf Error
What’s the Error?
On some Wisconsin quarters, a die gouge during minting added an extra high leaf or low leaf to the corn stalk on the reverse side.
Why It’s Valuable
These variations are incredibly rare, and their unique appearance makes them highly desirable to collectors.
Value Estimate
- Circulated: $50 to $300
- Uncirculated: $1,000+
How to Identify It
Examine the corn stalk closely. If you notice an additional leaf above or below the main leaves, you’ve found a winner.
3. 2005 Minnesota Quarter – Doubled Die Reverse
What’s the Error?
This error involves doubling in the trees on the reverse side, creating multiple tree images due to a misaligned die during minting.
Why It’s Valuable
The doubled tree lines are subtle but striking under magnification, making this error a fascinating and collectible piece.
Value Estimate
- Circulated: $50 to $100
- Uncirculated: $300 to $1,500
How to Identify It
Use a magnifying glass or microscope to inspect the trees near the horizon line. Look for overlapping or doubled images.
4. 1999 Georgia Quarter – Off-Center Strike
What’s the Error?
An off-center strike occurs when the coin isn’t properly aligned during minting, leaving part of the design incomplete or shifted to one side.
Why It’s Valuable
Off-center errors are eye-catching and rare. The Georgia quarter is one of the most commonly found off-center errors in the State Quarters series.
Value Estimate
- 10-20% Off-Center: $50 to $300
- 50%+ Off-Center: $1,000+
How to Identify It
Look for a noticeable misalignment in the design, with part of the coin blank where the die didn’t strike.
5. 2006 Colorado Quarter – “Cud” Error
What’s the Error?
A “cud” is a raised blob or area on the coin caused by a piece of the die breaking off during minting.
Why It’s Valuable
The Colorado quarter features one of the most prominent cud errors, often found on the rim or near the design on the reverse.
Value Estimate
- Circulated: $100 to $500
- Uncirculated: $1,000+
How to Identify It
Inspect the rim or edges of the design for raised, irregular blobs that disrupt the normal pattern.
6. 2000 New Hampshire Quarter – Missing Clad Layer
What’s the Error?
This error occurs when one or both layers of the coin’s outer metal cladding are missing, exposing the copper core beneath.
Why It’s Valuable
The visual anomaly of a missing clad layer makes these quarters rare and highly collectible.
Value Estimate
- One Side Missing: $500 to $1,200
- Both Sides Missing: $2,000+
How to Identify It
Look for a darker, coppery appearance on one or both sides of the coin. A coin scale can confirm weight differences caused by the missing layer.
How to Spot and Preserve Error Coins
Essential Tools
- Magnifying Glass or Microscope: For spotting fine details like doubling or die cracks.
- Coin Scale: To detect weight discrepancies for missing clad layer errors.
- Guidebooks: Use trusted resources to verify known errors and approximate values.
Handling Tips
- Always handle coins by their edges to prevent fingerprints or damage.
- Store coins in protective holders to preserve their condition.
- Never clean a coin, as this can reduce its value significantly.
Start Checking Your Quarters Today
These State Quarter errors prove that even the smallest mistakes can turn everyday change into a valuable collector’s item. Whether it’s a “Spitting Horse,” a doubled die, or a missing clad layer, these errors are more than quirks—they’re opportunities to own a piece of numismatic history.
So, the next time you come across a quarter, take a closer look. That little coin in your hand might just be worth thousands!