The 1999 Delaware State Quarter is a part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program and has become one of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world.
Collectors are now on the hunt for this rare quarter, as some versions of it are valued at nearly $1 million.
This coin, which was initially introduced to honor Delaware’s statehood, holds immense value due to rare minting errors and its historical significance.
Many factors contribute to the staggering value of this coin, such as specific errors, production variations, and its overall rarity.
Identifying whether you possess this special quarter could turn a simple coin into a life-changing treasure.
1999 Delaware State Quarter
The Delaware State Quarter was minted in 1999 as the first coin in the U.S. Mint’s State Quarters series. It features Caesar Rodney, a key figure in Delaware’s history, riding his horse on the coin’s reverse.
The date “1787” is inscribed, signifying the year Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. While millions of these quarters were produced, only a select few hold exceptional value.
Collectors are primarily interested in quarters with minting anomalies, such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, and other rare errors.
These flaws make the coins exceedingly rare and highly valuable in the numismatic community.
1999 Delaware Quarter With Errors
A significant reason behind the extraordinary value of this coin is the existence of minting errors. Some 1999 Delaware quarters exhibit a rare “spitting horse” error, where a visible die crack appears to extend from the horse’s mouth.
This minor detail is enough to make the coin a prized possession for collectors.
Additionally, variations in mint marks, such as those from the Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco Mints, can further impact the value.
Uncirculated quarters with mint condition quality fetch much higher prices compared to those that show wear and tear.
Condition Matters For 1999 Delaware Quarters
The condition of the 1999 Delaware quarter significantly affects its value. Coins in uncirculated condition, especially those graded MS-65 or higher by professional services like PCGS or NGC, tend to attract premium prices.
Quarters with mint luster and sharp strike details are the most desired among collectors.
On the other hand, even circulated versions of the rare Delaware quarter with distinct errors can command impressive prices.
It is essential to assess the coin’s condition thoroughly and consult experts to determine its true market value.
| Feature | Description | Value Range | Notable Errors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1999 | Up to $1 Million | Spitting Horse Error |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco | Varies | Doubled Die |
| Coin Program | 50 State Quarters Program | Collectible | Off-Center Strike |
| Key Design Feature | Caesar Rodney on Horseback | Historical Value | Die Cracks |
| Material | Copper-Nickel Clad | Base Metal | Minting Variations |
| Grading Importance | MS-65 or Higher | Premium Price | Uncirculated Condition |
| Circulated vs Uncirculated | Both Valuable with Errors | High Demand | Limited Circulation |
The rare 1999 Delaware State Quarter is much more than just a piece of currency.
Its errors, historical value, and growing demand in the numismatic market make it a coin worth searching for in your spare change.
Whether you are a collector or someone intrigued by rare finds, owning this quarter could unlock significant financial opportunities.
What makes the 1999 Delaware State Quarter valuable?
The coin’s value comes from minting errors like the “spitting horse” die crack, doubled dies, and off-center strikes. Its rarity further adds to its high value.
How can I identify the spitting horse error on the quarter?
Look for a small die crack extending from the horse’s mouth on the coin’s reverse side. This unique detail is a key indicator of the error.
Where was the 1999 Delaware quarter minted?
The coin was minted at three locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Quarters with unique mint marks are often more valuable.
