Detailed close-up of a US quarter and penny highlighting currency texture.

7 State Quarters That Could Make You a Small Fortune

If you’ve ever collected or casually held onto state quarters, you might be surprised to learn some of them could be worth far more than their 25-cent face value. While most state quarters are common and only worth pocket change, a select few rare versions have gained significant value due to unique features or minting errors.

I found it fascinating how ordinary coins can sometimes hide unexpected value. This article will introduce you to seven state quarters that have the potential to make you a small fortune if you happen to have one in your collection or wallet.

the united states of america quarter dollar
Photo by Chris Briggs

2000 Delaware “In God We Trust” Error Quarter

I came across talks about the 2000 Delaware quarter having an “In Cod We Trust” error, but that’s actually a fake or altered coin. Genuine error coins from that year don’t include this kind of motto mistake.

The real valuable errors come from doubled dies or missing elements on the coin. If you find a quarter with weird text or altered designs, it’s likely not an official mint error.

I always check carefully to avoid buying fakes since genuine 2000 Delaware quarter errors are rare and mostly tied to die mistakes, not motto changes.

2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter

I recently learned about a rare 2004 Wisconsin quarter that caught my attention. This coin has a small extra leaf near the corn stalk on its design. It’s surprising how such a tiny detail can make the coin special to collectors.

There are two versions of this extra leaf: a high leaf and a low leaf. Depending on which one you have, the coin’s value can vary quite a bit.

These quarters sometimes show up in everyday change. I find it exciting to check my coins for this little difference because it might be worth more than just 25 cents.

2005 Minnesota ‘Extra Tree’ Quarter

I find the 2005 Minnesota quarter with the “extra tree” error pretty fascinating. This mistake shows a small, extra tree on the reverse side, near the regular trees. It’s a subtle detail that makes the coin stand out for collectors.

From what I’ve seen, these quarters can sell for about $150 to $300, depending on the condition. They were part of the popular 50 State Quarters Program, so spotting one feels like finding a little treasure. If you stumble upon one, it’s worth getting it checked out!

1999 Georgia ‘P’ Mint Mark Quarter

I find the 1999 Georgia quarter from the Philadelphia Mint pretty interesting. It features a peach, oak leaves, and the state motto “Wisdom, Justice, Moderation.” Over 939 million of these were made, so most are just regular circulation coins.

However, some rare error versions can be worth a lot more. I’ve seen reports of a few reaching values in the thousands, but those are very uncommon. For most people, the coin is a nice piece of history rather than a fortune.

2000 Maine Variety Quarter

When I first heard about the 2000 Maine Variety Quarter, I was intrigued by its unique design. This coin features a lighthouse and pine trees, which makes it stand out from other quarters in the series.

What caught my attention is the lower mintage of this quarter compared to others. Because of that, it can be worth a bit more than the standard 25 cents, especially if it’s in great condition.

I keep an eye out for these quarters when sorting through my change. Finding one in uncirculated condition could potentially add a little value to my collection.

2003 Nevada ‘Extra Tree’ Quarter

One of the quarters I find really interesting is the 2003 Nevada quarter with the ‘Extra Tree’ error. This coin shows a small, extra tree behind the main design, which was not supposed to be there. It’s a neat little mistake that makes the coin stand out.

Collectors look for these errors because they are uncommon and add unique value. While most Nevada quarters are just worth 25 cents, the ‘Extra Tree’ versions can be worth more to the right buyer. It’s fun to think a simple variation like this could catch someone’s eye.

1999 North Carolina Double-Digit Quarter

I find the 1999 North Carolina quarter fascinating because of a unique error known as the “Double-Digit.” This mistake shows the number “21” twice on the coin’s edge, which makes it stand out from regular quarters.

Collectors often look for such minting errors since they are rarer than normal coins. While not extremely valuable, this quarter can still fetch a higher price than face value, especially if it’s in good condition.

I would keep an eye out for this quarter if I were hunting for coins with interesting quirks. It’s a neat piece of history from the early days of the State Quarters program.

More from Decluttering Mom: