The 1999 Delaware quarter is worth money primarily due to rare minting errors and its historical significance as the inaugural coin in the highly popular United States Mint's 50 State Quarters Program. While most 1999 Delaware quarters are only worth their face value, specific error varieties can command significant prices among collectors.
Understanding Its Value
The value of a 1999 Delaware quarter hinges on whether it possesses a rare minting error and its overall condition (grade).
Rare Minting Errors
Certain anomalies that occurred during the minting process can transform a common quarter into a valuable collectible. These errors are highly sought after by numismatists.
One of the most famous and valuable errors associated with the 1999 Delaware quarter is the "Spitting Horse" variety. This error features a small die crack that creates the appearance of the horse on the reverse (Caesar Rodney's horse) "spitting" from its mouth area.
Key characteristics of valuable error coins:
- Die Cracks: These are breaks in the coin die that transfer onto the coin itself, like the "Spitting Horse."
- Doubled Dies: Occur when the coin's design is struck twice, slightly misaligned, creating a blurred or doubled effect on letters or images.
- Off-Center Strikes: When the coin blank is not perfectly centered when struck, resulting in part of the design being missing and the blank planchet showing.
- Missing Planchet: Though rare, coins struck on the wrong type of metal or without a core (for clad coins) can be extremely valuable.
High-grade examples of these error coins, particularly those in uncirculated (MS-60 and above) or Proof (PR-60 and above) condition, can fetch substantial amounts. Some rare 1999 Delaware State Quarter error varieties have been reported to be worth nearly $1 million, demonstrating the potential for significant value in these unique pieces.
Historical Significance
Beyond minting errors, the 1999 Delaware quarter holds historical importance that contributes to its general appeal and collectibility.
- First in Program: As the very first coin released in the groundbreaking 50 State Quarters Program, it holds a special place in numismatic history. The program ran from 1999 to 2008, honoring each U.S. state in the order of its ratification into the Constitution or admission into the Union.
- "First State" Motif: Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution (on December 7, 1787), a fact proudly displayed on the quarter with a depiction of Caesar Rodney on horseback, symbolizing his urgent ride to cast the deciding vote for independence. This historical narrative resonates with collectors.
- Collector Demand: The popularity of the 50 State Quarters Program created a new generation of coin collectors, and the initial releases, including Delaware, often see sustained interest.
Factors Influencing Value
The value of any 1999 Delaware quarter can be summarized by these key factors:
| Feature | Common 1999 Delaware Quarter | Rare 1999 Delaware Quarter (Error Variety) |
|---|---|---|
| Value Range | Face value ($0.25) to a few dollars (for uncirculated) | Hundreds, thousands, or potentially nearly $1 million (for specific rare errors in high grade) |
| Primary Reason for Value | General circulation, commemorative design | Specific, verifiable minting errors (e.g., "Spitting Horse") combined with high condition |
| Condition (Grade) | Circulated condition has minimal premium | Uncirculated (MS-65+) and Proof grades are crucial for high value |
| Rarity | High mintage, not rare | Extremely rare due to specific error types and low survival rates in top condition |
To assess the potential value of a specific 1999 Delaware quarter, it is recommended to consult with professional numismatists or reputable coin grading services. Learn more about coin collecting and valuation from trusted numismatic resources.
