Discover which state quarters have exploded in value since 1999! Full 11-year price tracker, rare errors, top 10 most valuable list + tips to find gems in circulation today.
What Are State Quarters Exactly?
Launched in 1999, the 50 State Quarters program released five new quarter designs each year until 2008. Over 34 BILLION were minted – yet some are now rare coins worth hundreds or thousands.
The Wild History Behind the 50 State Quarters Program
The U.S. Mint wanted to get people excited about coins again. The plan worked TOO well – circulation jumped, kids started collecting, and grandma’s jar suddenly became treasure.
Why Are Some State Quarters Suddenly Worth So Much?
Low mintages for certain years, die errors, and proof/silver versions created instant rarities. Plus, nostalgia is driving 90s kids (now adults with money) to hunt childhood collections.
Top 10 Most Valuable State Quarters in 2025
| Rank | State & Year | Variety / Error | Avg. 2025 Value (MS65+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wisconsin 2004-D | Extra Leaf High/Low | $1,200 – $6,000 |
| 2 | Minnesota 2005-P | Extra Tree | $400 – $2,500 |
| 3 | Kansas 2005-D | In God We Rust | $100 – $1,200 |
| 4 | Delaware 1999-P | Off-center strike (50%+) | $500 – $2,000 |
| 5 | Arizona 2008-P | Extra Cactus | $300 – $1,800 |
| 6 | 2004-D Michigan | Reverse doubled die | $200 – $1,100 |
| 7 | 1999-P Connecticut | Broadstrike error | $400 – $1,500 |
| 8 | 2003-P Illinois | Silver proof (PR70 DCAM) | $250 – $900 |
| 9 | 2005-P California | Doubled die obverse | $150 – $850 |
| 10 | 2007-P Wyoming | Missing clad layer | $300 – $1,400 |
Rare Error Coins That Make Collectors Lose Their Minds
The “Extra Leaf” Wisconsin and “Extra Tree” Minnesota quarters are the holy grails. A single roll of 2004-D Wisconsin quarters with the error once sold for $28,000!
How to Start Collecting (or Cash In) Today
- Grab a folder or album ($10 on Amazon)
- Check all your change – errors still circulate!
- Look at eBay “sold” listings for real prices
- Join r/coins or Facebook state quarter groups – free advice everywhere
Expert Tips to Spot a Valuable Quarter Fast
- Hold the coin at an angle under good light – look for doubling or extra details
- Weigh it: silver proof quarters are 6.25g instead of 5.67g
- Use a 10x loupe ($5) – you’ll spot errors instantly
- Never clean coins! It destroys value
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are state quarters from circulation still worth money?
A: Yes! Many $500+ errors have been found in pocket change as recently as 2024.
Q: What’s the best state quarter to hunt right now?
A: 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf – still the king.
Q: Should I get my quarters graded?
A: Only if they look perfect. Grading costs $20–$50 per coin.
Final Thoughts – Your Pocket Change Could Be Gold
Eleven years after the program ended, state quarters keep surprising us. A roll you saved in 2005 could now pay a car payment. Dig out those old jars, check the dates, and who knows – your next coffee change might just buy dinner. Happy hunting, and let me know in the comments if you ever found a winner!