State quarters are more than just pocket change—they can be hidden treasures worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Introduced between 1999 and 2008, the 50 State Quarters Program captured the interest of collectors and the general public alike. But what makes some of these coins worth up to $3,055? It’s the rare minting errors that turn ordinary state quarters into valuable collector’s items.
From doubled dies to missing clad layers, these fascinating flaws make certain quarters stand out in the numismatic world. If you enjoy coin collecting or simply want to know if the change in your jar could be worth more than face value, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll highlight 8 rare state quarter errors, explain what to look for, and how much they’re worth. With a little knowledge and attention to detail, you could discover a small fortune hiding in plain sight.
1. 1999 Delaware State Quarter – Spitting Horse Error
One of the most well-known and valuable state quarter errors is the 1999 Delaware “Spitting Horse” quarter. This error features a die crack that appears to come from the horse’s mouth, making it look like the horse is “spitting.” This unique visual error was caused during the minting process when the die used to stamp the design began to crack.
These cracks can form due to wear and tear or pressure, resulting in a raised line on the coin. Collectors love this variety because it is both visible and humorous, making it stand out among other mint errors. In circulated condition, it might be worth a few dollars, but uncirculated examples or those in mint state condition can fetch up to $150.
If you happen to find one in high grade with a prominent die crack, collectors may be willing to pay a premium price for this unusual and sought-after error.
2. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter – Extra Leaf (High and Low)
The 2004 Wisconsin state quarter is famous for two error varieties known as the “Extra Leaf High” and “Extra Leaf Low.” These coins show an extra leaf on the left side of the ear of corn that shouldn’t be there. The additional leaf was likely the result of a gouge or foreign object on the die used during minting, possibly caused by accidental or intentional damage.
These quarters were minted at the Denver Mint, and not all coins show the extra leaf—only a small number of them do, making them highly collectible. The “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” varieties can be worth hundreds of dollars depending on their condition.
In circulated grades, they often sell for $100 to $300, while uncirculated versions can command prices as high as $500 or more. Some rare, high-grade certified examples have even been sold for up to $1,000 or more in online auctions and coin shows.
3. 2005 Kansas State Quarter – “In God We Rust” Error
This error on the 2005 Kansas state quarter is both famous and unusual. Due to grease or debris clogging the die during the minting process, the letter “T” in the word “TRUST” was not fully stamped, making the coin appear to say “In God We Rust.” These quarters were also minted at the Denver Mint and are part of the fun and bizarre side of error collecting.
Though the mistake may seem minor, it’s highly visible and amusing, which makes it appealing to collectors of all levels. Circulated examples can fetch $10 to $50 depending on condition, while uncirculated or mint-state coins can reach up to $100 or more.
Since this error was produced due to a filled die, it is technically a die-failure type of error, but its comic appearance has given it widespread popularity in the coin collecting community.
4. 2001 New York State Quarter – Off-Center Strike
Off-center strike errors occur when the coin blank (or planchet) is not properly aligned with the dies during the minting process. On the 2001 New York state quarter, some examples were struck significantly off-center, resulting in a coin that is missing part of its design.
These off-center errors can vary in how much of the design is affected—some might be just slightly misaligned, while others can be missing 50% or more of the image. The more extreme the off-center strike, the more valuable the coin tends to be.
Minor off-center examples might only be worth $10 to $50, but well-struck errors that still show the full date and state name can be worth $200 to $500 or more. Quarters with over 50% off-center strikes, especially in uncirculated condition, have been known to sell for over $1,000 at auction.
5. 2000 New Hampshire State Quarter – Misaligned Die Clash
The 2000 New Hampshire state quarter sometimes appears with a dramatic misaligned die clash. A die clash happens when the two dies strike each other without a coin blank in between, causing an impression of each die to be transferred to the other. When coins are then struck using those damaged dies, parts of the design from one side may appear faintly on the opposite side of the coin.
On some New Hampshire quarters, you may see parts of the design from the reverse appear faintly on the obverse and vice versa. This type of error is more subtle and requires close inspection under light or magnification.
Depending on the visibility and severity of the clash, such an error coin might sell for $50 to $150. Coins with strong, clear clash marks in mint condition are of greater interest to error collectors and can command even higher prices.
6. 2002 Ohio State Quarter – Double Die Reverse
Doubling errors occur during the die creation process and can lead to letters or images appearing twice on the same coin. In the case of the 2002 Ohio state quarter, some specimens show doubling on the reverse side—particularly on the lettering or on the image of the astronaut and Wright Flyer.
This variety is known as a doubled die reverse (DDR). Though not extremely common, these quarters are highly desirable to collectors who specialize in die varieties. To identify this error, a magnifying glass is helpful. Look closely at the words “Ohio” or “Birthplace of Aviation Pioneers” for signs of doubling.
The value of a DDR Ohio quarter depends on the clarity and extent of the doubling, as well as the coin’s condition. Circulated pieces may sell for $25 to $75, while mint state or certified examples could bring in $150 to $300 or more, especially if graded MS65 or higher.
7. 2003 Maine State Quarter – Missing Clad Layer
Another fascinating error found on some 2003 Maine state quarters involves a missing clad layer. U.S. quarters are normally made from a copper-nickel clad composition, with an inner copper core. If one of the outer layers of nickel is missing, it results in a coin that has a reddish or coppery appearance on one side.
These types of errors occur during the blanking process when a planchet fails to receive the nickel cladding before being struck. Missing clad layer errors are easy to identify by their color and texture differences. The side missing the clad layer will appear duller and may feel different to the touch.
Such error coins are quite collectible and can fetch between $100 and $300 in the current market. If both sides are missing the clad layer or if the coin is in excellent condition, it could be worth up to $500 or more depending on rarity and demand.
8. 1999 Georgia State Quarter – Broadstrike Error
Broadstrike errors happen when a coin is struck outside the retaining collar that normally keeps the blank in place during minting. This results in a coin that looks wider and flatter than normal, with no reeded edge. The 1999 Georgia state quarter has been found with broadstrike errors, making it a unique piece for collectors.
Since the design is not fully contained within the proper borders, it may appear stretched or distorted. These errors are more noticeable and are generally sought after by collectors of minting anomalies. Values for broadstrike Georgia quarters can range from $50 to $150 in circulated condition, while those in uncirculated or near-perfect condition can command up to $300 or more.
Like most mint errors, the more dramatic and clearly visible the mistake, the more valuable the coin tends to be on the numismatic market.
Bottom Line
Rare state quarter errors are not just collector’s items—they can be valuable assets worth up to $3,055. Coins like the “Spitting Horse” Delaware quarter or the Wisconsin quarter with an “Extra Leaf” show how minting mistakes can make everyday coins extraordinary.
Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious about your change, learning to spot these rare errors could pay off. Always check your quarters carefully, especially those from the early 2000s. A magnifying glass, patience, and a little know-how can turn spare change into surprising profit. Keep hunting—you might already have one of these rare gems.
FAQs
What is the most valuable state quarter error?
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter with the “Extra Leaf High” or “Extra Leaf Low” error is among the most valuable, with some selling for over $1,000 in top condition.
How do I know if my state quarter has an error?
Look closely for unusual features like missing letters, doubled images, extra design elements, or off-center strikes—often visible with a magnifying glass.
Are state quarter errors rare?
Yes, error coins are relatively rare, which is why they’re valuable. Most were produced in small numbers due to accidental die flaws or misalignment.
Where can I sell rare state quarter errors?
You can sell them online on platforms like eBay, through coin dealers, or at coin shows—especially if your coin is authenticated and graded.