If you have a jar of old coins sitting at home, you might want to take a closer look. One quarter, in particular, could be worth way more than twenty-five cents—up to $14,000, in fact. It is the 1999 Delaware quarter, and if you have the right one, you might be holding onto a small fortune without even knowing it.
What makes the 1999 Delaware quarter so special
The 1999 Delaware quarter was the very first coin released in the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters program. It features Caesar Rodney on horseback—a tribute to his historic ride to sign the Declaration of Independence.
But what really makes some of these coins valuable is not just the design. It is their condition and how they were minted that matter.
Which 1999 Delaware quarter is worth $14,000
Not every Delaware quarter from 1999 is worth thousands. You need to look for a few very specific things. Here is what to check:
- Mintmark: Look for a “P” mintmark, meaning it was made at the Philadelphia Mint. These are the ones collectors look for.
- Grade: A coin’s grade tells you how perfect its condition is. The highest grades mean the coin is almost untouched.
- The jackpot coin:
According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), a 1999-P Delaware quarter graded MS-69 (which is nearly perfect) can be worth up to $14,000.
Here is what the coin might be worth based on its condition:
- MS-62: Up to $3
- MS-63: Up to $4
- MS-64: Up to $5
- MS-65: Up to $5
- MS-66: Up to $12
- MS-67: Up to $30
- MS-68: Up to $1,250
- MS-69: Up to $14,000
How to know the condition of your quarter
You might be wondering, “How do I even know if my coin is MS-69?” That is where grading comes in. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can look at your coin and tell you exactly what it is worth.
But before you spend money on grading:
- Look for visible wear. If your coin has scratches or marks, it might not be worth grading.
- Check online images. Compare your coin with high-quality photos of graded coins.
- Talk to a local coin dealer. Many will take a quick look and give you free advice.
How to safely sell a valuable coin
If you think your 1999 Delaware quarter is the real deal, do not rush to sell it at a pawn shop. Here are some better options:
- Auction houses that specialize in coins
- Online coin marketplaces with trusted buyer reviews
- Direct sales to collectors if you connect through coin clubs or forums
Make sure you get your coin authenticated first if it seems valuable. That little step could be the key to unlocking thousands of dollars.
Where to look for old coins at home
Still wondering if you might have one? Start by checking:
- Old coin jars
- Spare change drawers
- Junk drawers in the kitchen
- That box of coins your grandparents saved
You never know what you might find lying around your home.
