1999 Delaware State Quarter Found In Grandma’s Old Purse Brings $36,000 At Auction
In a remarkable turn of events, a seemingly ordinary 1999 Delaware State Quarter discovered in a grandmother’s old purse has fetched an astonishing $36,000 at auction.
This unexpected windfall has captured the attention of coin collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, highlighting the hidden treasures that may lie unnoticed in everyday places.
The 1999 Delaware State Quarter: A Brief Overview
The 1999 Delaware State Quarter holds the distinction of being the first coin released in the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program. Its reverse design features Caesar Rodney on horseback, commemorating his historic 70-mile ride to cast Delaware’s vote for independence in 1776.
This coin not only marks a significant moment in American history but also initiated a decade-long series celebrating each state’s unique heritage.
The Unexpected Discovery
The quarter in question was stumbled upon by a family member while sorting through their grandmother’s belongings. Initially overlooked as just another coin, its unique characteristics soon caught the eye of a keen observer.
Upon closer inspection and subsequent professional evaluation, the coin was identified as a rare variant, leading to its impressive auction price.
What Makes This Quarter So Valuable?
Several factors contributed to the coin’s exceptional value:
- Minting Errors: Some 1999 Delaware Quarters are known to have minting anomalies, such as the “spitting horse” error, where a die crack appears to show the horse spitting. Such errors are highly sought after by collectors.
- High-Grade Condition: Coins graded MS68 or higher are rare and command premium prices. The coin’s pristine condition significantly boosted its value.
- Limited Mintage: While millions of these quarters were produced, only a fraction remain in uncirculated, high-grade condition, making them rare finds.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin | 1999 Delaware State Quarter |
| Design | Caesar Rodney on horseback |
| Mint | Philadelphia (P) |
| Minting Error | Possible “spitting horse” die crack |
| Grade | MS68 |
| Auction Price | $36,000 |
| Discovery Location | Found in grandmother’s old purse |
| Significance | First coin in the 50 State Quarters Program |
The discovery of a 1999 Delaware State Quarter worth $36,000 serves as a compelling reminder of the hidden treasures that may reside in our everyday lives.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious novice, it’s worth taking a closer look at the coins in your possession—you might just uncover a valuable piece of history.
FAQs
How can I identify if my 1999 Delaware Quarter is valuable?
Look for minting errors like the “spitting horse” die crack or have the coin professionally graded. High-grade coins (MS68 or above) are particularly valuable.
Where can I get my coin appraised?
Professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC offer appraisal and grading services. Local coin dealers or numismatic societies can also provide evaluations.
Are other state quarters valuable too?
Yes, certain state quarters with minting errors or in high-grade conditions can be valuable. Notable examples include the 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf and 2005 Kansas “In God We Rust” errors.