A seemingly ordinary 2004 Wisconsin state quarter could be worth significantly more than its 25-cent face value due to a rare minting error. Some quarters from this year feature an extra leaf on the corn depicted on the coin’s reverse side, making them highly sought after by collectors.
The Error That Matters: The Extra Leaf
The key to identifying a potentially valuable coin lies in examining the corn stalk illustration on the quarter’s tail side. Specifically, look for an additional leaf protruding from the corn – either a “high extra leaf” or a “low extra leaf.” This anomaly occurs because of a die variation during the minting process.
Value Ranges: From $30 to $6,000
The price of these error quarters varies drastically based on condition and grading. A circulated coin with the error may fetch around $50, while an uncirculated specimen could sell for $130. However, professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC can dramatically influence value.
- Graded Coins: A high-quality graded coin (MS67) with a high extra leaf might be listed at $3,200 by PCGS. Though actual auction results often fall lower, some specimens have sold for as much as $6,000.
- Low Extra Leaf: A coin with a low extra leaf could be valued up to $5,500 in pristine condition (MS67) according to grading guides.
- Common Quarters: If your 2004 Wisconsin quarter lacks the extra leaf, it’s worth its face value.
Why This Matters
This phenomenon highlights the unpredictable nature of numismatic value. While most quarters are just currency, these rare errors demonstrate that even small imperfections can transform a coin into a collectible item worth thousands. The market for error coins is driven by scarcity, condition, and collector demand.
Where to Learn More
TikTok user @coinhub has shared a helpful video explaining how to identify the error. Coin grading services like PCGS and NGC provide price guides, though actual auction results may differ. Always verify values from multiple sources before making decisions.
