Coin collecting may appear to be a past-oriented activity; however, the reality is that some of the most valuable coins were produced by chance. Sometimes, a seemingly commonplace coin can be transformed into a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item as a result of a simple minting error.
An unexpected error has resulted in the value of two such quarters, which were produced as a result of a minting error. The following is the story of how these two quarters became some of the most valuable coins in history as a result of a minor error.
1. The 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter
One of the most renowned instances of a minting error is the 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter. The dies used to strike the quarters were not properly aligned during production, resulting in a “doubled” image on the obverse side of the coin (the front). This led to the development of two distinct collections of information regarding the coin’s date and other components.
The error was uncommon, but it was not promptly identified, and the coins were subsequently released into circulation. In the present day, a 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter in excellent condition can be sold at auction for up to $200,000. Collectors are anxious to acquire this valuable error due to its historical significance and scarcity.
2. The 1970-S “Filled S” Quarter
The 1970-S “Filled S” Quarter is another valuable quarter that was produced as a result of a minting error. The reason for this error was that the mintmark on the coin, which signified that it was produced at the San Francisco mint, was filled with metal, resulting in a distorted, “filled” appearance.
The coin’s subtle defect distinguished it from standard 1970 quarters, and although many were initially disregarded, they were subsequently highly sought after by collectors. A 1970-S “Filled S” Quarter in pristine condition is currently valued at up to $100,000. It is exceedingly uncommon to encounter one of these quarters in circulation; however, it is prudent to verify your coins.
Both the 1937 Doubled Die Obverse Quarter and the 1970-S “Filled S” Quarter are examples of how a simple minting error can lead to a coin becoming incredibly valuable. These two quarters transitioned from being commonplace coins in circulation to becoming some of the most sought-after collector’s artifacts in the numismatic world. If you come across a quarter from these years, be sure to thoroughly examine it for any indications of a minting error—it may be worth more than you realize!
Also See: Rare Dimes That Look Normal But Are Worth a Small Fortune!
FAQ’s:
1. What is a minting error?
A minting error is the result of an inaccuracy that occurs during the fabrication of a coin. This can lead to the use of the incorrect metal, incorrect mintmarks, double images, or misprints. The coin frequently becomes significantly more valuable as a result of these errors.
2. How do I know if a quarter is worth something?
Inspect the design for any unusual features, such as duplicated images, indistinct mintmarks, or misalignments. If you discover a quarter with a discernible error, it may be worth considerably more than its nominal value.
3. How can I check the value of a rare coin?
To determine the value of a coin, you may consult a reputable coin merchant or utilize online numismatic guides and databases. Professional grading can also assist in determining the value of a coin.
4. Are minting errors common?
The value of a coin increases as the number of errors decreases, and minting errors are relatively uncommon. The desirability of a specific error is augmented by its rarity among collectors.
