$30,000 State Quarter Errors
Can a State Quarter Really Be Worth $10,000 to $30,000?
It may sound unbelievable… but it’s true.
While most state quarters are worth only 25 cents, a small number of rare mint error state quarters have sold for $10,000 to over $30,000 at major auctions.
Even better?
Many of these error coins were released into circulation, meaning valuable examples could still be hiding in everyday change.
In this guide, you’ll discover the top 3 most valuable state quarter errors, learn how to identify them step by step, and find out where to look for hidden treasures 
Top 3 Most Valuable State Quarter Errors
2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” Quarter
Value: Up to $30,000+ (MS65–MS66)
Why It’s Valuable
- Features an extra leaf on the corn stalk
- Two varieties: High Leaf and Low Leaf
- One of the most famous modern U.S. coin errors
- Strong collector demand worldwide
Auction Record:
$32,900 (PCGS MS66, 2023)
This coin is considered the gold standard of modern state quarter errors.
2005-P Minnesota “In God We Rust” Quarter
Value: $15,000–$17,000+ (MS65+)
What Makes It Special
- Caused by a heavy die-grease error
- The word TRUST appears as “RUST”
- Extremely rare in high-grade condition
- Bold and easy-to-see mistake
Auction Record:
$18,800 (NGC MS66, 2022)
1999-P Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter
Value: $10,000–$12,000 (MS65)
Key Features
- Die crack creates a line from the horse’s mouth
- Looks like the horse is “spitting”
- First state quarter ever released
- Scarce in top condition
Auction Record:
$12,075 (PCGS MS65, 2024)
Step-by-Step: How to Identify Valuable State Quarter Errors
Step 1: Use Magnification
Use a 10× loupe or stronger and look for:
- Extra leaves
- Missing or altered letters
- Cracks, lines, or raised bumps
Step 2: Inspect the Edge & Rim
Check for:
- Rim breaks
- Collar cracks
- Uneven or distorted edges
Step 3: Check the Weight 
- Normal quarter weight: 5.67 grams (±0.10 g)
- Large differences may indicate a genuine mint error
Red Flags to Avoid
Watch out for:
Tool marks
Artificial scratches
Wrong metal color
Flattened or fake doubling
Many “errors” online are simply damaged coins.
Best Places to Find Rare State Quarters
Want to start hunting? Try these spots:
Bank Rolls – Buy rolls and search at home
U.S. Mint Sets (1999–2008) – Some contain hidden errors
CoinStar Reject Trays – Yes, people have found valuable coins here
True Story:
One collector found a 2004-D Extra Leaf Wisconsin quarter in pocket change and sold it for $28,000.
Why Professional Authentication Matters
Coins graded by PCGS or NGC:
- Sell for 3–5× more
- Attract serious buyers
- Cost about $25–$50 per coin
Proper attribution can dramatically increase demand.
Best Places to Sell Error Quarters
| Value Range | Best Platform | Typical Fees |
|---|---|---|
| $10,000+ | Heritage Auctions | ~15% |
| $1,000–$10,000 | GreatCollections | ~10% |
| Under $1,000 | eBay (certified only) | ~12.9% |
Selling Tip:
Use keywords like state quarter error, mint mistake, and rare quarter.
Final Thoughts
The State Quarter Program (1999–2008) created one of the greatest treasure hunts in U.S. coin history.
Rare errors from this series still sell for five-figure prices, and some are waiting to be discovered.
Before you spend your next quarter:
Check the design
Look for errors
Weigh the coin
That simple 25-cent piece could be worth $30,000
