Hidden Treasures in Your Change
Coin collecting can feel like a treasure hunt, and some coins in your pocket might be worth a lot more than their face value. In 2025, state quarters from five states are catching collectors’ eyes because of rare errors or limited production. Quarters from Wisconsin, Delaware, Minnesota, Kansas, and Wyoming with mistakes like extra designs or misprints can sell for hundreds or even thousands. For example, a Wisconsin quarter with an extra leaf on the corn stalk can go for $500 to $2,500. Keep an eye on your change, as these quarters are still out there in circulation.
| State | Error Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | Extra Leaf | $500-$2,500 |
| Delaware | Spitting Horse | $150-$900 |
The Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Another coin to watch for is the Susan B. Anthony dollar with a specific error that makes it incredibly valuable. This coin, minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly in 1999, honors the women’s rights pioneer. A rare version with a “clear S” mint mark from 1979, produced in San Francisco, can be worth over $500,000. The “S” should look sharp and distinct, not blurry. These dollars are hard to find because many were melted down or mistaken for quarters due to their similar size. Check old coin rolls or your loose change for this hidden gem.
Why These Coins Are So Special
What makes these coins worth so much? It comes down to rarity and collector interest. Errors like the extra leaf on Wisconsin quarters or the clear S on Susan B. Anthony dollars happened by mistake during minting, so only a few exist. Coins with low production numbers, like some state quarters, are also prized because fewer were made. In 2025, coin collecting is booming, thanks to online forums and social media, driving up prices for rare finds. If you spot one of these coins, you could cash in big by selling to collectors or at auctions.
How to Spot These Valuable Coins
You don’t need special tools to find these treasures, just a good eye. For state quarters, check the designs closely. Wisconsin quarters might have an extra leaf on the corn, while Delaware quarters could show a “spitting horse” error, with a line near the horse’s mouth. For Susan B. Anthony dollars, look for the “S” mint mark on coins from 1979. It should be crisp and clear, not fuzzy. A magnifying glass can help, but you can often spot these details without one. Keep a small guide or use a phone app to compare your coins to known errors.
| Coin | Key Feature | Years to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Susan B. Anthony Dollar | Clear S Mint Mark | 1979 |
| Minnesota Quarter | Extra Tree | 2005 |
Selling Your Rare Finds
If you think you’ve found a valuable coin, don’t spend it. First, check it against pictures online or in coin books to confirm the error or feature. Then, visit a trusted coin dealer or get it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC. Grading proves the coin’s condition and authenticity, which can increase its value. You can sell through auction houses, online sites like eBay, or to collectors directly. Be careful to avoid scams and only work with reputable buyers. A coin worth hundreds or thousands needs careful handling to get the best price.
Start Hunting for Coins Today
Coin collecting is a fun way to turn spare change into serious money. With state quarters from places like Wisconsin or Minnesota and rare Susan B. Anthony dollars still in circulation, anyone could find a fortune. Check your change, old coin jars, or even rolls from the bank. In 2025, the excitement around rare coins is growing, making it the perfect time to start looking. You never know when a quarter or dollar coin might be worth hundreds or even half a million dollars.