Quarter coins have long been a staple of American currency, but some seemingly ordinary coins have become extraordinarily valuable due to rare minting errors. These errors can occur in a variety of ways, from double strikes to wrong planchets, making each error coin unique and highly sought after by collectors. In this blog post, we will explore the most valuable quarter error coins ever discovered, with some of these collector’s gems worth millions of dollars.
List of the Most Valuable Quarter Error Coins
| Rank | Coin Description | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Overstruck on 1941 Canadian Quarter) | 1970 | $100,000 |
| 2 | 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar/Washington Quarter Mule | 2000 | $150,000 |
| 3 | 1950-D/S Washington Quarter Overmint Mark | 1950 | $75,000 |
| 4 | 1932-D Washington Quarter Double Die Obverse | 1932 | $80,000 |
| 5 | 1943 Washington Quarter (Struck on Steel Planchet) | 1943 | $85,000 |
| 6 | 1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Planchet) | 1965 | $7,000 |
| 7 | 1999 Delaware State Quarter (Spitting Horse Error) | 1999 | $10,000 |
1970-S Proof Washington Quarter (Overstruck on 1941 Canadian Quarter) – $100,000
The 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter is one of the most fascinating error coins ever discovered. This quarter was accidentally struck on a 1941 Canadian Quarter, resulting in a coin that features elements from both American and Canadian designs. This overstrike error is extremely rare, with only a few known examples, making it highly valuable. One such coin was sold for around $100,000 at auction, making it one of the most sought-after error coins in the world.
2000-P Sacagawea Dollar/Washington Quarter Mule – $150,000
The 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar/Washington Quarter Mule is a remarkable error coin resulting from accidentally pairing a Sacagawea dollar obverse die with a Washington quarter reverse die. This error is known as a “mule,” where two mismatched dies are used to strike a coin. Only a few of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely valuable. In top condition, this coin can be worth up to $150,000, making it one of the most expensive quarter error coins ever discovered.
1950-D/S Washington Quarter Overmint Mark – $75,000
The 1950-D/S Washington Quarter is an example of an overmint mark error, where the “D” mintmark for Denver was stamped over the “S” mintmark for San Francisco. This error occurred during the minting process when the dies were improperly prepared. The result is a coin that shows both mintmarks, creating a unique and highly collectible piece. In high-grade condition, this coin can fetch up to $75,000 at auction.
1932-D Washington Quarter Double Die Obverse – $80,000
The 1932-D Washington Quarter Double Die Obverse is one of American numismatics’s most famous error coins. This coin features a noticeable doubling of the obverse design elements, including the date and lettering. A misalignment during the minting process led to the striking of the design elements twice, which was the error. Collectors highly seek after this coin, with pristine examples valued at around $80,000.
1943 Washington Quarter (Struck on Steel Planchet) – $85,000
The 1943 Washington Quarter is another rare and valuable error coin, struck on a steel planchet instead of the standard silver planchet. During World War II, the U.S. Mint experimented with using steel for various coins, including pennies, to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few quarters were mistakenly struck on steel planchets, making them extremely rare. One of these coins sold for $85,000, making it a highly prized piece among collectors.
1965 Washington Quarter (Silver Planchet) – $7,000
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to a copper-nickel-clad composition for quarters. However, some 1965 quarters were mistakenly struck on leftover silver planchets from the previous year. Collectors highly seek out these error coins for their rarity and historical significance. In top condition, a 1965 Washington Quarter struck on a silver planchet can be worth up to $7,000.
1999 Delaware State Quarter (Spitting Horse Error) – $10,000
The 1999 Delaware State Quarter is known for a unique die crack error, famously dubbed the “Spitting Horse” error. This error occurs on the obverse side of the coin, where a small die crack extends from the horse’s mouth, making it appear as if the horse is spitting. While not as rare as some of the other errors on this list, the Spitting Horse error is highly collectible, with high-grade examples fetching up to $10,000.
FAQ
What makes a quarter error coin valuable?
The value of a quarter error coin is determined by factors such as the rarity of the error, the coin’s condition, and collector demand. Coins with unique or significant errors are typically more valuable.
How can I determine if my quarter is an error coin?
You can determine if your quarter is an error coin by carefully examining it for any unusual features, such as doubling, overstrikes, or incorrect planchets. Having the coin graded by a professional service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) can also help confirm the error and determine its value.
Are all quarter error coins worth a lot of money?
Not all quarter error coins are worth significant amounts of money. The value depends on the rarity and significance of the error and the coin’s condition. Some minor errors may only be worth a small premium over face value.
What should I do if I think I have a valuable quarter error coin?
If you believe you have a valuable quarter error coin, it’s advisable to appraise it by a professional or submit it to a grading service for authentication. They can provide a more accurate assessment of its value and advise you on selling it.
Why are some quarter error coins worth millions?
Some quarter error coins are worth millions due to their extreme rarity, unique minting errors, and high demand among collectors. These factors combine to make certain error coins exceptionally valuable and sought after.
References
- “The Most Valuable Error Coins in U.S. History” – PCGS CoinFacts
- “Top 10 Most Valuable Quarters” – The Spruce Crafts
- “Error Coin Price Guide” – NGC Coin Explorer
- “Collecting Rare Coins: What You Need to Know” – CoinWeek
- “The Fascinating World of Mint Error Coins” – Heritage Auctions
