5 State Quarters Still in Circulation Worth Over $5,000 Each

Most state quarters are common and worth face value. A few rare varieties and error coins, however, have been confirmed to sell for thousands of dollars. This guide explains the five types you should know, how to identify them, and what to do if you find one in pocket change.

What makes a state quarter valuable?

Value comes from extreme rarity, collector demand, and condition. Error coins, unusual die varieties, off-metal strikes, and certain minting anomalies can create one-of-a-kind pieces that collectors will pay for.

1. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Varieties

The 2004 Wisconsin quarter has small, foliage-like die markings near the ear of the cow on the reverse. Two main varieties are known as “Extra Leaf High” and “Extra Leaf Low.” Collectors tracked these closely because they are rare die varieties found in circulation.

Why they matter: Several authenticated examples graded by major services have sold for thousands. If you find a clearly visible extra leaf near the ear, get it examined.

2. Doubled Die State Quarters

Doubled dies occur when the die impresses the design twice. On quarters this can show doubling on the date, lettering, or design lines. Doubled dies are a classic driver of premium prices when the doubling is strong and obvious.

How to spot one:

Look at the date and motto (e.g., UNITED STATES OF AMERICA) for doubled outlines.
Use a 10x loupe or smartphone macro to check edges.
Compare to a normal example online or via grading service photos.

3. Off-Metal and Transitional Strikes

These are quarters struck on the wrong planchet (for example, a copper-nickel quarter struck on a zinc or bronze planchet). They are rare because quality control usually catches them before public release.

Why they can reach $5,000+: An off-metal coin is an inherently one-off error in many cases. Collectors who specialize in mint errors prize them highly, particularly if the error is dramatic and the coin is otherwise uncirculated.

4. Mint Mark Anomalies and Proof Struck in Circulation

Occasional mint-mark mistakes or proof-quality strikes that were accidentally released into circulation can carry high premiums. Proof-like circulation strikes with heavy mirrors or business strikes accidentally bearing a proof finish are desirable.

Identification tips:

Check for unusual mint marks or missing marks (P, D, S).
Look for unusually sharp details and mirror-like fields.

5. Severe Off-Center and Broadstrike Quarters

Off-center strikes and broadstrikes produce dramatic visual errors. If a quarter appears incomplete because the image is cut off or is stretched dramatically outward, it might be a major error worth substantial money.

Grading and preservation matter: A well-preserved off-center or broadstrike found in circulation that remains uncleaned and intact will command the highest prices.

How to verify a potentially valuable quarter

Follow these practical steps before jumping to conclusions or selling:

Do a close visual inspection with a loupe or phone macro lens and compare to reference photos from trusted sources (PCGS, NGC).
Document the coin with clear photos of both sides, the date, and any anomaly.
Do not clean or alter the coin. Cleaning permanently reduces collector value.
Submit the coin for third-party grading if initial checks suggest real rarity. Grading gives credibility and can increase sale value.

Did You Know?

Some of the most valuable state quarters started as coins found in circulation. The 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf variety was first noticed by hobbyists pulling coins from change and later authenticated by grading services.

Real-world example

A collector reported finding a Wisconsin quarter in change that showed an unusual leaf-like die mark beside the cow. After photographing it and sending images to a specialist, the coin was submitted to a grading service and later sold to a dedicated error-coin collector for several thousand dollars.

Best practices if you find one

If you suspect you have one of the five types above, follow these steps:

Handle the coin by the edges and place it in a soft holder.
Take multiple high-resolution photos in good light.
Ask for opinions from reputable coin forums or local coin shops, but rely on third-party grading for sale-level proof.
Get multiple bids from dealers or auction houses if you plan to sell.

Where to get expert help

Trusted grading services such as NGC and PCGS provide authentication and grading. Local numismatic clubs, coin dealers with positive reviews, and regional auction houses can also advise on sale options.

Finding a rare state quarter in circulation is exciting. Use careful documentation, avoid cleaning, and seek professional grading to maximize value. Even if most quarters are common, knowing what to look for can turn a pocketful of change into a valuable find.