Collecting coins isn’t just about filling an album—it can also uncover some serious value. Many state quarters that look ordinary at first glance actually have rare minting errors or design quirks that make them highly sought after. If you’ve got a stash of coins lying around, it might be worth giving them a closer inspection.
This list highlights 11 state quarters that collectors are willing to pay a premium for. Each one has a unique feature or flaw that sets it apart, making it far more valuable than its face value.
1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Error Quarter
The Delaware quarter was the very first release in the 50 State Quarters Program, and while millions were minted, a small number featured an unusual flaw. Known as the “Spitting Horse” error, it shows a die crack that makes it appear as though the horse on the reverse is spitting. This odd detail transformed an otherwise common coin into one of the most talked-about error quarters among collectors.
Because of its place as the first state quarter and the rarity of the error, the Spitting Horse coin has steadily increased in desirability. Collectors enjoy its unique appearance and the fact that it is easy to identify, making it one of the most collectible coins of the entire series.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf High Quarter
In 2004, Wisconsin quarters with a striking mint error made headlines. Some coins showed an additional leaf on the ear of corn in the design—positioned higher than normal. This “Extra Leaf High” variety likely came from a die gouge during minting and was released in very limited numbers. The mistake is easy to spot, making these quarters particularly fun for collectors to hunt.
Because they were discovered only after entering circulation, these coins became instant rarities. Their value has continued to climb, and they now stand among the most famous error quarters produced during the state series.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Low Quarter
The Wisconsin quarter also has another variation—this time with an extra leaf appearing lower on the ear of corn. Known as the “Extra Leaf Low” error, it is separate from the “High Leaf” variety and just as collectible. These small differences in the design are what make error coins fascinating to numismatists.
Like its counterpart, the Extra Leaf Low was only produced in small numbers and quickly gained recognition in the collecting community. Together, the two errors make the 2004 Wisconsin release one of the most important state quarter finds.
2005 Minnesota Extra Tree Quarter
This Minnesota state quarter features an unusual “phantom tree” error. Caused by die breaks, the extra lines appear in the background among the trees, giving the illusion of another tree in the design. The mistake is subtle but highly sought after, especially because it is clearly visible once pointed out.
Collectors prize this coin not only for its rarity but also for the creativity it inspires—it looks almost like a hidden detail waiting to be discovered. As error coins grow in popularity, the Extra Tree quarter has secured a place on many collectors’ wish lists.
2005 Kansas ‘In God We Rust’ Quarter
Few state quarters have generated as many chuckles as the Kansas “In God We Rust” variety. Due to a grease-filled die, the “T” in “Trust” didn’t strike clearly, leaving some coins with the phrase “In God We Rust.” It’s an amusing error that gained quick attention both from serious collectors and casual hobbyists.
Beyond its humor, the coin is a legitimate minting error and has become increasingly collectible. Its popularity ensures steady demand, and it remains a conversation piece for anyone lucky enough to find one in their change.
2005 Oregon Cracked Earth Quarter
The Oregon state quarter is known for its beautiful design, but some coins carried an extra feature: a die crack running across the bottom. Dubbed the “Cracked Earth” error, it gives the coin an appearance of a fracture in the landscape. This striking flaw has made it a standout among error coins.
Collectors appreciate that the crack is unique on each coin, giving every piece a slightly different appearance. That individuality has added to their collectibility and long-term value.
2006 Colorado Cud Error Quarter
The Colorado quarter introduced another type of mistake known as a “cud error.” This happens when part of the coin die breaks away, leaving a raised blob of metal on the finished coin. While it may look like a random flaw, cud errors are extremely collectible because they clearly show the minting process went wrong.
Many casual collectors pass over these coins, but experts know their value is climbing. With more people focusing on error coins, the Colorado cud variety is now seen as a worthy find.
2008 Arizona Extra Cactus Leaves Quarter
The Arizona quarter is known for an unusual flaw near the cactus. Extra lines caused by a die break created what looks like additional cactus leaves at the bottom of the design. These are not easy to find, which only adds to their appeal.
Collectors have been paying increasing attention to this error, and its market value has responded accordingly. As more people search for error coins, the Extra Cactus Leaves quarter has become a prime target.
2008 Alaska Extra Claw Quarter
The Alaska quarter shows a grizzly bear, but on some coins, the paw appears to have an extra claw. This striking error was the result of a die flaw and gave the bear an unusual appearance. The mistake is clear enough that it became one of the more popular errors spotted by collectors.
Because it’s so distinctive, the Extra Claw variety is particularly fun to collect. It’s one of those coins that tells a story at first glance, and its rarity ensures it will remain valuable for years to come.
2008 Hawaii Weak Strike Quarter
A weak strike occurs when a coin doesn’t receive a strong enough impression from the die, leaving details faint or missing. Some 2008 Hawaii quarters show this flaw, and while it may seem like a subtle difference, collectors know it can greatly increase value.
Weak strike coins are always intriguing because each one has a different level of incompleteness, making every coin unique. That individuality has made the Hawaii weak strike quarter a favorite for error coin enthusiasts.
2008 Oklahoma Extra Wing Quarter
The Oklahoma quarter features a scissortail flycatcher, but some coins show an extra feather on its wing caused by a die break. This “Extra Wing” error is one of the more visually striking mistakes, making it stand out among the state quarter series.
Collectors prize this coin both for its rarity and for its beauty. It’s not only an error but also an elegant design detail that draws attention, ensuring its continued demand among numismatists.
