You might be carrying a small fortune in your wallet without even knowing it. In 2025, coin and bill collectors are hunting for specific state quarters from five U.S. states and 2017A $5 bills with a rare microprinting flaw. These everyday items could be worth thousands, or even tens of thousands, to the right buyer. Whether it’s a quarter from your state or a $5 bill you got as change, checking for certain details could lead to a big payday. Here’s what to look for to spot these hidden treasures.
State Quarters That Could Pay Big
The U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, which ran from 1999 to 2008, produced some coins that are now worth far more than 25 cents. Quarters from Wyoming, Ohio, Arizona, Iowa, and Arkansas are especially valuable due to rare errors or limited minting. For instance, the 2007-D Wyoming quarter with a “bison on a stick” error, where an extra line appears on the bison, can sell for up to $1,200. The 2002-P Ohio quarter with a doubled die error, where the design looks doubled, can fetch $600 to $900.
Arizona’s 2008-P quarter with a cactus misalignment error is valued at around $400, while Iowa’s 2004-D quarter with an extra cornstalk can go for $300 or more. Arkansas quarters from 2003-P with a rice stalk error can bring in $200 to $500. Look for these specific errors, and check the coin’s condition. Quarters in uncirculated condition, with no scratches or wear, are worth the most. Don’t clean your coins, as that can lower their value significantly.
| State | Quarter Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | Bison on Stick (2007-D) | Up to $1,200 |
| Ohio | Doubled Die (2002-P) | $600-$900 |
| Arizona | Cactus Misalignment (2008-P) | ~$400 |
| Iowa | Extra Cornstalk (2004-D) | $300+ |
| Arkansas | Rice Stalk Error (2003-P) | $200-$500 |
2017A $5 Bills: The Microprinting Flaw Jackpot
The 2017A $5 bill is making waves in the collector world because of a rare microprinting flaw. These bills, featuring Abraham Lincoln, have a tiny printing error in the microtext on the left side of the bill. Normally, microprinting says “USA FIVE” repeatedly, but flawed bills might show smudged or missing letters, making them highly sought after. A 2017A $5 bill with this flaw in crisp, uncirculated condition can sell for $25,000 to $48,000 at auction.
To spot a valuable 2017A bill, use a magnifying glass to check the microprinting near Lincoln’s portrait. Look for smudged, incomplete, or missing text. Also, check the serial number for other rare features, like a star symbol, which can add value. Star notes with the microprinting flaw can fetch up to $30,000. The bill’s condition matters a lot—unfolded, crisp bills are worth more. Avoid folding or damaging the bill, and don’t try to clean it, as this can hurt its value.
| Feature | What to Look For | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Microprinting Flaw | Smudged/Missing “USA FIVE” | $25,000-$48,000 |
| Star Note | Star symbol in serial | Up to $30,000 |
| Condition | Crisp, uncirculated | Higher value |
How to Turn Your Finds Into Cash
If you think you’ve found a rare quarter or 2017A $5 bill, don’t spend it. Start by researching its value online or with a local coin dealer. For quarters, check the mint mark (P or D) and look for the errors listed above. For bills, use a magnifying glass to confirm the microprinting flaw and note the serial number. Professional grading services like PCGS for coins or PMG for bills can certify authenticity and condition, boosting their appeal to buyers. You can sell through coin shops, online marketplaces like eBay, or auction houses like Stack’s Bowers.
Why These Items Are Worth So Much
Rare quarters and flawed 2017A $5 bills are valuable because of their scarcity and collector demand. Minting errors, like extra designs or doubled dies, make quarters unique, while the microprinting flaw on 2017A bills is a rare mistake that slipped through quality control. Collectors love these quirks because they tell a story about U.S. currency history. In 2025, these items are still out there, hiding in change jars, old wallets, or family collections. Take a moment to check your coins and bills—you might be sitting on a small