9 Rare Error Quarters Worth Up to $300 Million Still in Circulation : For coin collectors and everyday people alike, finding a rare and valuable coin in circulation is like striking gold. Error quarters, in particular, are among the most sought-after coins in numismatics. These rare and valuable coins can be worth thousands or even millions of dollars due to their unique mistakes during the minting process. Some of these error quarters have been valued at up to $300 million, and the best part is that they could still be hiding in your pocket change!
In this article, we’ll explore nine rare error quarters that are still in circulation and how you can identify them. If you’re lucky enough to come across one, you might just find yourself with a life-changing discovery.
1. 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Overstruck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter)
One of the most famous error quarters, the 1970-S proof Washington quarter, was mistakenly struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter. This unique blend of two different countries’ coins makes it incredibly rare and valuable. Look closely at the coin under magnification, and you may spot remnants of the underlying design.
2. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
The 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter features an unusual minting error an extra leaf on the corn stalk. There are two known variations of this error: the “high leaf” and the “low leaf.” These quarters can fetch thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.
3. 1999-P Connecticut Quarter (Broadstruck Error)
A broadstruck error occurs when a coin is minted without a properly seated collar die, resulting in a coin that is wider and lacks a fully defined rim. Some 1999-P Connecticut quarters with this error have sold for significant amounts at auctions.
4. 1983-P Washington Quarter (Double Die Reverse)
The 1983-P Washington quarter has a noticeable double die error on the reverse, causing letters and designs to appear doubled. These rare error coins are highly sought after by collectors and can sell for thousands of dollars if found in mint condition.
5. 2005-P Minnesota Quarter (Double Die Error)
Some 2005-P Minnesota quarters exhibit a double die error on the reverse, particularly in the trees near the outline of the state. This rare variation has been sold at auctions for impressive sums, making it a valuable find in circulation.
6. 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Composition Error)
The U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver quarters to copper-nickel clad coins in 1965, but a few 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on silver planchets. If you find a 1965 quarter that weighs around 6.25 grams instead of the standard 5.67 grams, you may have discovered a rare silver error quarter worth a fortune.
7. 2000-P South Carolina Quarter (Struck on Experimental Planchet)
During the early 2000s, the U.S. Mint experimented with different materials for state quarters. Some 2000-P South Carolina quarters were accidentally struck on experimental planchets, resulting in coins with unusual color and texture. These quarters have fetched tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
8. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse)
The Bicentennial quarter, issued in 1976, is popular among collectors, but some of these quarters feature a double die obverse error, creating a doubling effect on the inscriptions. These error coins can be worth thousands, especially in high-grade condition.
9. 1995-P Washington Quarter (Misaligned Die Error)
A misaligned die error happens when the coin is struck off-center due to improper alignment of the dies. Some 1995-P Washington quarters have been found with severe misalignments, making them highly collectible and valuable.
How to Identify Error Quarters
If you want to start searching for these rare quarters in your pocket change, follow these steps:
- Use a Magnifying Glass: Many error details are small and require magnification to spot.
- Check for Doubling: Look for overlapping or double inscriptions.
- Weigh Your Coins: Some errors involve coins struck on the wrong metal, so a precision scale can help.
- Examine the Edge: Some errors involve missing or incorrect reeding (the grooves on the edge of the coin).
- Compare with Standard Coins: Keep a reference of regular quarters to compare potential errors.
Where to Sell Your Rare Error Quarter
If you think you’ve found a rare error quarter, consider getting it appraised by a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC. You can sell your valuable coin at:
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections)
- Local coin shops
- Coin shows and collector conventions
Final Thoughts
Rare error quarters are hidden treasures that could be in circulation today. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual observer, checking your spare change could lead to an incredible discovery. Keep an eye out for these nine rare error quarters, and who knows you might just find a coin worth millions!
