In the world of numismatics, every coin tells a story. The 1999 quarter, part of the groundbreaking 50 State Quarters Program, is no exception. While many might overlook these seemingly ordinary coins, they can hold surprising value for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the world of 1999 quarters, exploring their history, varieties, and potential worth.
The Genesis of the 50 State Quarters Program
1999 marked a pivotal year in U.S. coinage with the launch of the 50 State Quarters Program. This ambitious initiative, authorized by Congress in 1997, aimed to honor each state in the order they joined the Union. The program's inception was met with unprecedented public enthusiasm, breathing new life into coin collecting across the nation.
The Pioneering Five: 1999's Commemorative Quarters
The inaugural year of the program saw the release of five distinct quarter designs:
- Delaware (January 4, 1999)
- Pennsylvania (March 8, 1999)
- New Jersey (May 17, 1999)
- Georgia (July 19, 1999)
- Connecticut (October 12, 1999)
Each design was minted for approximately 10 weeks, creating a sense of urgency among collectors and the general public alike.
Understanding 1999 Quarter Varieties
To truly appreciate the value of 1999 quarters, it's crucial to understand the different varieties produced:
- Regular Strike Coins: Minted for circulation in Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D)
- Proof Coins: High-quality collector versions minted in San Francisco (S)
- Clad Proofs: Composed of the same materials as circulating coins
- Silver Proofs: Struck in 90% silver, appealing to precious metal enthusiasts
Factors Influencing 1999 Quarter Value
Several key factors can significantly impact the value of a 1999 quarter:
- Mint Mark: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), or S (San Francisco)
- Condition: Uncirculated coins generally command higher prices
- Errors: Coins with minting errors can be highly sought after by specialists
- Proof vs. Circulation: Proof coins typically fetch premium prices
- Silver Content: Silver proofs have inherent value due to their precious metal content
- Rarity: Some varieties or error coins may be scarcer than others
Comprehensive 1999 Quarter Value Chart
Below is an expanded value chart for 1999 quarters in various conditions:
| Coin Type | Good (G4) | Fine (F12) | Extremely Fine (XF40) | MS (60) | MS (65) | PR (65) | PR (70) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 P Delaware | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 D Delaware | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $6 | / | / |
| 1999 S Delaware proof | / | / | / | / | / | $8 | $50+ |
| 1999 S Delaware silver proof | / | / | / | / | / | $13 | $100+ |
| 1999 P Pennsylvania | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 D Pennsylvania | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 S Pennsylvania proof | / | / | / | / | / | $8 | $50+ |
| 1999 S Pennsylvania silver proof | / | / | / | / | / | $7 | $80+ |
| 1999 P New Jersey | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 D New Jersey | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $7 | / | / |
| 1999 S New Jersey proof | / | / | / | / | / | $8 | $50+ |
| 1999 S New Jersey silver proof | / | / | / | / | / | $10 | $90+ |
| 1999 P Georgia | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 D Georgia | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 S Georgia proof | / | / | / | / | / | $8 | $50+ |
| 1999 S Georgia silver proof | / | / | / | / / | $7 | $80+ | |
| 1999 P Connecticut | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 D Connecticut | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $3 | $5 | / | / |
| 1999 S Connecticut proof | / | / | / | / | / | $8 | $50+ |
| 1999 S Connecticut silver proof | / | / | / | / | / | $12 | $95+ |
Note: Values are approximate and subject to market fluctuations. MS refers to Mint State, PR to Proof.
Rare and Valuable 1999 Quarters
While most 1999 quarters are worth their face value or slightly more, some rare specimens have fetched astounding sums at auction:
- 1999-S PR70 DCAM Delaware Silver Quarter: Sold for $17,250 in 2007
- 1999-P MS67 Pennsylvania Quarter: Achieved $10,200 in 2006
- 1999-S PR70 DCAM Georgia Silver Quarter: Reached $6,038 in 2007
- 1999-P MS66 Delaware Quarter: Sold for $4,888 in 2008
- 1999-P MS67 Connecticut Quarter: Fetched $4,362 in 2006
These exceptional sales underscore the potential value hidden within seemingly ordinary quarters.
Identifying Valuable Error Coins
Error coins are a fascinating subset of numismatics, often commanding premium prices. Here are some notable 1999 quarter errors to be aware of:
- Experimental Planchet Strikes: Worth $4,800 to $9,800
- Obverse Brockage Error (Connecticut): Can exceed $3,000
- Double Die Obverse (Pennsylvania): Clad versions around $2,500
- Mated + Bonded Pair Error: $2,000 to $3,000
- Multiple Strikes on Feeder Finger (Delaware): Up to $1,000
Source: Error-Ref.com, a leading authority on mint error coins
The Intricacies of Grading 1999 Quarters
Grading is a critical factor in determining a coin's value. Professional grading services use the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- MS60-MS70: Uncirculated condition
- MS60-62: Some bag marks or scuffs
- MS63-64: Fewer marks, better luster
- MS65-66: Exceptional luster, minimal marks
- MS67-70: Nearly perfect to perfect condition
- AU50-AU58: About Uncirculated
- Slight wear on high points, but retains most luster
- XF40-XF45: Extremely Fine
- Light wear on high points, some mint luster remains
- VF20-VF35: Very Fine
- Moderate wear, major design elements clear
- F12-F15: Fine
- Considerable wear, but major details still visible
- VG8-VG10: Very Good
- Well-worn, but major design elements still outlined
- G4-G6: Good
- Heavily worn, but date and lettering still visible
- AG3: About Good
- Very heavily worn, date may be barely legible
- FA2: Fair
- Nearly smooth, but date still visible
- PR1: Poor
- Barely identifiable as a coin
For the most accurate assessment, particularly for potentially valuable specimens, professional grading is recommended.
Advanced Collecting Strategies for 1999 Quarters
- Complete Set Collection: Aim to acquire all varieties from each mint for each state.
- Error Hunting: Develop expertise in identifying rare errors and die varieties.
- Condition Rarity: Focus on high-grade examples, particularly for circulated coins.
- Toning: Some collectors prize naturally toned silver proofs for their unique appearance.
- First Strike Coins: Collect coins certified as being among the first struck for each design.
Market Trends and Investment Potential
While most 1999 quarters remain close to face value, certain specimens have shown significant appreciation over time. According to data from the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), high-grade examples and rare errors have consistently outperformed more common varieties.
For instance, the value of MS67 1999-P Delaware quarters has increased by approximately 15% over the past decade, while PR70DCAM silver proofs have seen even more substantial gains, some appreciating by over 30% in the same period.
Preservation and Storage
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the condition and value of your 1999 quarters:
- Use non-PVC holders or albums to prevent chemical damage
- Store coins in a cool, dry environment to prevent toning or corrosion
- Handle coins by their edges to avoid leaving fingerprints or causing wear
- Consider using inert gas capsules for long-term storage of valuable specimens
Where to Buy and Sell 1999 Quarters
- Local Coin Shops: Offer personalized service and immediate transactions
- Online Marketplaces: eBay, Heritage Auctions, and APMEX provide wide selections
- Coin Shows: Excellent for networking and finding rare specimens
- Auction Houses: Ideal for high-value or rare coins
- Coin Forums: Connect with other collectors and potential buyers/sellers
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of 1999 Quarters
The 1999 quarter series, marking the beginning of the 50 State Quarters Program, holds a special place in American numismatics. While many of these coins remain in circulation at face value, the potential for discovering a rare error or high-grade specimen makes them perennially interesting to collectors.
Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious newcomer, the 1999 quarter offers an accessible entry point into the fascinating world of coin collecting. Each coin is not just a piece of currency, but a tangible connection to American history and artistry.
As we've explored, the value of these coins can range from a mere 25 cents to thousands of dollars, depending on factors like mint mark, condition, and the presence of rare errors. This wide spectrum of potential worth adds an element of excitement to collecting that few other modern coins can match.
Remember, the true value of coin collecting extends beyond monetary considerations. It's about the thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the preservation of history. So, the next time you receive change, take a moment to examine those quarters – you never know what treasures you might find.
