Modern Quarters Worth Big Money – When most people think about valuable coins, they often imagine rare gold pieces or centuries-old silver dollars. However, some of the most surprising treasures in numismatics come from modern U.S. quarters—coins that were minted within the last few decades and may still be found in everyday circulation.
Thanks to the 50 State Quarters Program, D.C. and U.S. Territories Quarters, and the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, millions of Americans became coin collectors overnight. While most of these quarters are only worth 25 cents, a select few have become highly valuable collectibles, selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars due to minting errors, low mintages, or unique varieties.
Here’s a look at the Top 7 Modern Quarters Worth Big Money today—and what makes them so special.
1. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is one of the most famous modern error coins in U.S. history. As part of the State Quarters program, Wisconsin’s design features a cow and an ear of corn. But some quarters were struck with a tiny extra leaf on the cornstalk—either high or low.
While both varieties exist, the “Extra Leaf High” version is extremely rare. In MS-67 grade, this variety has sold for over $5,000, especially when certified by PCGS or NGC.
Collectors love this quarter because it was discovered by the public, not just die-hard numismatists, proving that anyone could find a treasure in their pocket change.
2. 2005 Minnesota State Quarter
The 2005 Minnesota State Quarter features a unique doubled die obverse, meaning the image of George Washington appears doubled in certain areas due to a misalignment during die production.
This variety is particularly noticeable in the word “IN GOD WE TRUST” and parts of Washington’s hair and facial features. It’s considered one of the strongest doubled dies in the entire State Quarters series.
Certified examples in MS-65 condition have sold for over $3,000, making this one of the most desirable modern quarters among variety collectors.
3. 2009 District of Columbia (D.C.) Quarters
In 2009, the U.S. Mint issued six new quarters honoring the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
These quarters had very low mintages, especially those from the Philadelphia Mint, since they were not released into general circulation. The 2009-D D.C. Quarter is the most common, but others like the 2009-P American Samoa Quarter are incredibly scarce in high grades.
Examples in MS-67 or higher have sold for up to $4,000, depending on the territory and grading service.
4. 2008 Oklahoma State Quarter
Another standout in the State Quarters series is the 2008 Oklahoma Doubled Die Reverse. This error is visible on the state motto “Labor Omnia Vincit,” which appears doubled on the reverse.
Unlike many minor doubling varieties, this one is easily seen with the naked eye, making it a popular find among casual collectors.
High-grade specimens (especially MS-66 and above) have sold for over $2,000, and the variety remains one of the top modern doubled die quarters ever discovered.
5. 2016-W Standing Liberty Centennial Quarter
The 2016-W Standing Liberty Quarter is not a regular circulation coin—it was issued as part of a special set to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original Standing Liberty Quarter design.
Struck at the West Point Mint and made of 90% silver, this quarter was included only in limited-edition proof sets and silver proof sets. With a mintage of under 100,000, it’s relatively scarce.
Certified examples in PR-70 Ultra Cameo have sold for over $1,000, and values continue to rise due to its commemorative nature and precious metal content.
6. 2017-S Enhanced Uncirculated San Francisco Mint Quarter
In 2017, the U.S. Mint released a special enhanced uncirculated quarter featuring George Washington on the reverse to honor the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint. These quarters were struck at the San Francisco Mint and marked with an “S” mint mark.
Though not a traditional error or variety, the Enhanced Uncirculated finish gives the coin a near-proof appearance with frosted devices and mirrored fields. They were only available in a special two-coin set with a Kennedy half dollar.
Because of their limited availability and unique finish, these quarters can fetch between $500 and $1,000, especially in top condition.
7. 2020-W “No S” Proof Type 1 George Washington Quarter
A rare and controversial modern quarter is the 2020-W “No S” Proof George Washington Quarter, which was mistakenly released without the expected “S” mint mark denoting its origin from the San Francisco Mint.
This coin was part of a special two-coin set commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence. Due to a production error, some proof versions were shipped without the mint mark.
Only a small number were discovered, making it a highly sought-after modern error. Certified examples have sold for over $1,200, and demand continues to grow among collectors who specialize in mintmark errors.
Modern Quarters Value Chart
| QUARTER | YEAR | MINT MARK | RARITY FACTOR | ESTIMATED VALUE (HIGH GRADE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Extra Leaf High | 2004 | P (Philadelphia) | Minting error – extra leaf on cornstalk | $5,000+ |
| Minnesota Doubled Die Obverse | 2005 | D (Denver) | Strong doubling on obverse (visible in text & portrait) | $3,000+ |
| D.C. & U.S. Territories Quarters | 2009 | P / D | Extremely low mintage; not released into circulation | $2,000–$4,000 depending on territory |
| Oklahoma Doubled Die Reverse | 2008 | P (Philadelphia) | Clear doubling on reverse motto “Labor Omnia Vincit” | $2,000+ |
| Standing Liberty Centennial Quarter | 2016 | W (West Point) | 90% silver commemorative issue; limited mintage | $1,000+ |
| San Francisco Enhanced Uncirculated Quarter | 2017 | S (San Francisco) | Special finish; limited edition set only | $500–$1,000 |
| “No S” Proof George Washington Quarter | 2020 | None (should be “S”) | Mint error – missing mint mark | $1,200+ |
What Makes a Modern Quarter Valuable?
Modern quarters aren’t typically valuable simply because they’re old—they gain value through:
- Mint Errors: Such as doubled dies, missing mint marks, or off-center strikes.
- Low Mintage: Coins produced in limited quantities, especially if not released into circulation.
- Special Finishes: Like enhanced uncirculated or proof finishes.
- Historical Significance: Commemorative issues or designs tied to major events.
- Varieties: Unique die differences that create collectible subtypes.
How to Find Valuable Modern Quarters
If you’re curious whether you might own one of these valuable quarters, here’s how to check:
- Check the Year and Design: Look up which states or territories are featured and the year it was minted.
- Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to examine for doubling, missing elements, or unusual markings.
- Look for Mint Marks: Some valuable varieties are linked to specific mints like Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S).
- Have It Graded: If you suspect you’ve found something rare, get it authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
- Stay Updated: New discoveries happen regularly in the world of modern coin collecting—join forums or follow auction results to stay informed.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to dig through ancient coin hoards or pay thousands for pre-20th century rarities to find valuable coins. Sometimes, all it takes is a close look at your pocket change—or a deep dive into your collection.
From the famous Wisconsin Extra Leaf to the rare 2020-W No S Quarter, these Top 7 Modern Quarters Worth Big Money prove that valuable treasures can still be found in recent U.S. coinage.
So next time you pick up a roll of quarters, take a second glance—you might just hold a modern numismatic gem worth far more than 25 cents.
