Most people think of state quarters as everyday pocket change, but did you know that some of them could be worth a fortune? Thanks to minting errors, low production numbers, and rare variations, certain state quarters have become incredibly valuable to collectors—with some commanding prices as high as $6.7 million in auctions and private sales.
Yes, you read that right. Here’s a look at five state quarters that might still be floating around in circulation—and could make you a millionaire if you find one.
1. 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error) – Worth Up to $6,700,000
This is perhaps the most famous and valuable state quarter ever minted. The Wisconsin quarter, released in 2004, features a cow, cheese wheel, and an ear of corn. However, a small number were struck with an extra leaf on the corn stalk—either a “High Leaf” or “Low Leaf” variety.
Why It’s Valuable:
- It’s a major mint error
- Very limited number exist
- Highly desired by collectors
How to Spot It:
- Look for a 2004 “D” mint mark
- Check the corn stalk for an additional leaf near the bottom
Value:
- Regular: 25¢
- Error: $2,000 to $6.7 million (depending on condition and buyer interest)
2. 1999-P Delaware State Quarter (Spitting Horse Error) – Worth Up to $4,500
This was the first state quarter released in the 50 State Quarters Program. On some coins, there’s a die crack that makes it look like the horse (Caesar Rodney’s mount) is spitting.
Why It’s Valuable:
- A unique and visible die crack error
- Highly collectible as a first-year release
How to Spot It:
- Look near the horse’s mouth for a raised line extending forward
Value:
- Common: 25¢
- Error: $100 to $4,500
3. 2000-P South Carolina Quarter (Off-Center Strike) – Worth Up to $3,000
Off-center errors occur when the coin isn’t properly aligned during the minting process. The 2000-P South Carolina quarter has been found with major off-center strikes.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Off-center errors are rare and can vary greatly
- The more off-center, the more valuable
How to Spot It:
- Look for a coin where part of the design is missing or pushed to one side
Value:
- Minor off-center: $50–$100
- Major off-center: $500 to $3,000
4. 2001-P Vermont Quarter (Double Die Reverse) – Worth Up to $1,000
Double die errors happen when a coin is struck twice by a misaligned die, leading to doubling on the text or images. The 2001-P Vermont quarter has some rare examples with doubling on the reverse.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Doubling is highly prized in numismatics
- Only a few confirmed examples
How to Spot It:
- Look for doubling in “Freedom and Unity” or the trees on the reverse
Value:
- Common: 25¢
- Double die: $300 to $1,000
5. 2005 Minnesota Quarter (Extra Trees Error) – Worth Up to $600
Some 2005 Minnesota quarters were struck with extra tree-like lines due to die gouges or clashing, making the forest on the coin appear more crowded than it should.
Why It’s Valuable:
- A fascinating visual error
- Many collectors specifically hunt for it
How to Spot It:
- Look at the area to the right of the state outline—extra “trees” will appear as raised lines
Value:
- Regular: 25¢
- Error: $50 to $600
Final Thoughts: Check Your Change—You Could Be Rich
Rare and valuable coins aren’t just hiding in collector’s albums—they’re out there in circulation right now. Millions of Americans never take a second look at their quarters, and that’s exactly why hidden treasures can go unnoticed for years.
If you find one of these state quarters:
- Don’t clean it—this lowers the value
- Store it in a safe place
- Have it appraised by a reputable coin dealer or grading service
Who knows? That quarter you got in change for your morning coffee might just be your $6.7 million ticket.