The U.S. Mint’s State Quarter Program brought a renewed enthusiasm to collecting coins as designs would highlight the heritage of each state from 1999 through 2008. The vast majority of state quarters have only their face value, though there are several errors that can command huge prices for the error. In fact, a few examples sell for upwards of $150 million. Let’s review some of the most fantastic errors and why they’re so special.
Delaware “Spitting Horse” Quarter (1999)
The 1999 Delaware Quarter, the first in the State Quarters series, features Caesar Rodney on horseback. However, a minting error resulted in what collectors call the “Spitting Horse” variety, where a die crack creates a line extending from the horse’s mouth, resembling spit.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Error | Die crack near the horse’s mouth |
Value | Estimated up to $150 million (high grade) |
Collector Appeal | Unique and recognizable error |
This quirky mistake has captured collectors’ attention, making it one of the most sought-after State Quarter errors.

Wisconsin’s “Extra Leaf” Quarter (2004)
The 2004 Wisconsin Quarter commemorates the state’s agricultural heritage with a cow, a cheese wheel, and a corn stalk. A mint error added an extra leaf to the corn stalk, with two variations:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Error Variants | High extra leaf and low extra leaf |
Value | Significant premiums over face value |
Collector Appeal | Highly desirable due to unique design error |
Both variants of the extra leaf error are prized by collectors, with values climbing significantly based on condition and rarity.
Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter (2005)
The 2005 Kansas Quarter featuring a bison and the state motto was infamous for its “In God We Rust” error.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Error | Missing “T” in “TRUST” due to a grease-filled die |
Value | Significant premiums for uncirculated examples |
Collector Appeal | Popular for its humorous and ironic error |
However, such a variety of error type has made it very popular for all and widely discussed in the numismatic world.

Other notable State Quarter errors include the following:
Some more State Quarter errors have also gained value
State | Error | Estimated Value |
---|---|---|
Connecticut (1999) | Broad strike (expanded coin size) | Over $1,000 |
New Hampshire (2000) | Die crack through the design | Over $500 |
Minnesota (2005) | Extra tree in the design | Over $1,000 |
Georgia (1999) | Missing mint mark | Over $700 |
These are reminders that change in the pocket can have a good value as well .
Factors determining value:
The value of error quarters depends on several key factors:
- Rarity: The fewer coins with the error, the higher the value.
- Condition: Coins in pristine condition fetch premium prices.
- Error Type: Unique or dramatic errors, like extra design elements or missing letters, are more desirable.
- Collector Demand: Popularity of the coin series and error type impacts market value.
How to Spot Valuable Error Quarters

If you’re looking for error State Quarters in your rolls or loose change, here’s what to look for:
- Observe the Design: Look for peculiarities, such as extra things or missing features.
- Pay close attention to the following states: Delaware (1999), Wisconsin (2004), and Kansas (2005).
- Use Good Lighting: Sometimes errors are only apparent under good lighting.
- Compare Your Coin: Look at known images of valuable errors.
Selling Valuable Quarters
If you think you’ve found a valuable error coin:
- Handle with Care: Do not clean the coin; this reduces its value.
- Store in Protective Holders: Prevents damage.
- Authenticity: Have the coin professionally graded through services like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult Dealers: Deal with respectable coin dealers or auction houses when getting the coin valued and sold.
Why Collect Error State Quarters?
The State Quarters program provides a fascinating view of U.S. history and regional pride. The excitement of error coins adds to the thrill of collecting. These rare mistakes are not only valuable but also unique artifacts of the minting process, revealing the human side of America’s coinage.
Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or just a casual enthusiast, hunting for error quarters adds an exciting dimension to coin collecting. While finding a $150 million “Spitting Horse” quarter might be rare, the search itself is a rewarding experience—and who knows, you just might know a hidden gem in your loose change.
FAQs:
What is the ‘Spitting Horse’ error?
A die crack on the 1999 Delaware Quarter creates a line near the horse’s mouth.
What makes the Wisconsin ‘Extra Leaf’ quarter valuable?
An added leaf on the corn stalk design is a unique mint error.