How Much Is a Full Set of State Quarters Worth?
Learn the essential factors impacting the value of a full State Quarters set. Understand what makes your collection worth more than face value.
The U.S. Mint’s State Quarters Program, launched in 1999, introduced a unique series of commemorative quarters. Each quarter featured a distinct design honoring one of the 50 states, released over a ten-year period. This initiative transformed ordinary pocket change into collectible items, leading many to wonder about the monetary value of a full set. The worth of these quarters extends beyond their face value, depending on factors that appeal to numismatists and casual collectors alike.
Defining a Full Set
A “full set” of State Quarters encompasses more than just the 50 state designs. The U.S. Mint issued quarters for all 50 states from 1999 through 2008. In 2009, six additional quarters were released as part of the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program, featuring designs for the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Northern Mariana Islands. A comprehensive collection typically includes these 56 unique designs.
Beyond the distinct state and territory designs, a truly complete set considers the mint marks. Quarters were produced at Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints. Proof versions, specially struck for collectors with a higher quality finish, were produced at the San Francisco Mint (S). A collector aiming for a full set often seeks all available P, D, and S mint varieties for each of the 56 designs.
Primary Value Determinants
The value of individual State Quarters, and a full set, is influenced by several factors. The coin’s physical condition, commonly referred to as its grade, is important. Coins are graded on the 70-point Sheldon Scale, where a higher number indicates better preservation. For instance, a coin graded MS-70 (Mint State 70) is considered perfect. Professional grading can impact a coin’s value, especially for higher-grade or rarer specimens.
Mint marks also determine a quarter’s value. P (Philadelphia) and D (Denver) mint marked quarters were produced for circulation. S (San Francisco) mint marked quarters were primarily issued as proof coins for collectors. These proof issues often have lower mintages and a superior strike, contributing to higher collector value. Silver proof versions, typically bearing the “S” mint mark, contain 90% silver and are valued for their metal content and numismatic appeal.
Minting errors and rare varieties can increase a quarter’s worth. These imperfections occur during production and include doubled dies, off-center strikes, or planchet errors. For example, the 2004-D Wisconsin quarter is known for its “Extra Leaf” varieties. The 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” quarter, a grease error obscuring the “T” in “TRUST,” is another well-known example. The rarity of such errors, combined with collector demand, can elevate a common coin’s value.
Practical Valuation and Market Realities
When assessing the value of a State Quarters set, consult current market resources. Reputable coin price guides, numismatic websites, and recent auction results offer up-to-date valuations for individual coins and sets. These resources provide a realistic understanding of what collectors are willing to pay, which can fluctuate based on market demand and economic conditions.
Most State Quarters found in circulation are worth only their 25-cent face value, even when collected as a full set. This is due to immense mintage numbers, with over 34 billion produced between 1999 and 2008. The widespread circulation means most coins have experienced wear and are not rare. Collector value differs from face value, driven by condition, rarity, and errors.
Specific State Quarters that command a premium include certain proof issues and error coins. The 2004-D Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” quarters can sell for $45 to over $1,200 in uncirculated condition. The 2005-P Kansas “In God We Rust” quarter, a grease-filled die error, can fetch between $5 and $50. Silver proof State Quarters can be worth $30 to $35 each due to their 90% silver content and limited mintages. Options for selling valuable sets include coin dealers, online numismatic marketplaces, and auction houses.