Have you ever considered that the loose change jingling in your pocket could be worth far more than its face value? For coin collectors and numismatists, 2022 has proven to be an exciting year, particularly when it comes to quarter errors. These tiny imperfections, often invisible to the untrained eye, can transform a common 25-cent piece into a prized possession worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let's delve into the intriguing realm of 2022 quarter errors and explore their potential value.
Understanding the 2022 American Women Quarters Program
Before we examine specific errors, it's crucial to understand the context of these coins. The 2022 quarters are part of the American Women Quarters Program, a four-year initiative honoring influential women in U.S. history. From 2022 to 2025, the U.S. Mint is releasing five different quarter designs annually, each showcasing a notable woman on the reverse side.
The 2022 honorees include:
- Maya Angelou (writer and civil rights activist)
- Dr. Sally Ride (astronaut and physicist)
- Wilma Mankiller (first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation)
- Nina Otero-Warren (suffrage leader and educator)
- Anna May Wong (first Chinese American Hollywood star)
Common Features of 2022 Quarters
All 2022 quarters share these characteristics:
- Obverse Design: A right-facing portrait of George Washington, designed by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1932
- Composition: Cupro-nickel (91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel)
- Dimensions: 24.26mm diameter, 1.75mm thickness
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Edge: Reeded with 119 reeds
- Mintage: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mints
Notable 2022 Quarter Errors and Their Values
1. Maya Angelou Quarter Errors
Drooling Washington Error
- Description: A die gouge creates the appearance of drool on Washington's chin
- Value: Up to $1,900
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 100,000 quarters
Wart on the Nose / Cold Sore Error
- Description: Die marks appear on Washington's face, prominently on his nose
- Value: $100-$300, depending on condition
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 50,000 quarters
Nesting Bird Error
- Description: A die crack on the reverse resembles a twig carried by an eagle
- Value: $480-$1,000
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 75,000 quarters
2. Dr. Sally Ride Quarter Errors
Ghost Comet Tail Error
- Description: A line appears behind Ride's neck and shoulder, also visible next to Earth
- Value: $300-$1,250
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 60,000 quarters
Double Die Obverse Error
- Description: Doubling of design elements on the obverse side
- Value: $50-$200, depending on severity
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 25,000 quarters
3. Wilma Mankiller Quarter Errors
Retained Die Break Error
- Description: A raised portion at the corner of the rim on the obverse side
- Value: Up to $1,200
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 80,000 quarters
Vertical Die Crack Error
- Description: A prominent vertical raised line on the reverse
- Value: When combined with the retained die break, up to $1,500
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 100,000 quarters
Scarface and Deformed C Error
- Description: Die marks on Mankiller's face and a filled-in "C" in the Native American writing
- Value: Up to $1,500
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 90,000 quarters
Misprint in the Star Error
- Description: A misprint in the star design
- Value: Up to $1,000
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 70,000 quarters
4. Nina Otero-Warren Quarter Errors
Drooling George Error
- Description: Similar to the Maya Angelou quarter error
- Value: $300-$400
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 50,000 quarters
Drooling George with Flowers in Hair Error
- Description: Combines the drooling effect with additional die marks resembling flowers
- Value: Up to $500
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 75,000 quarters
Nose Scars Error
- Description: Die marks appearing as scars on Otero-Warren's nose
- Value: Up to $350
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 40,000 quarters
Double Die Crack Error
- Description: Two prominent die cracks, one on obverse and one on reverse
- Value: A record-breaking $8,300 on eBay
- Rarity: Extremely rare, approximately 1 in 500,000 quarters
5. Anna May Wong Quarter Errors
Teardrop Error
- Description: A die chip mark resembling a teardrop on Wong's right cheek
- Value: $90-$100
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 30,000 quarters
Doubled Die Reverse Error
- Description: Doubling of design elements on the reverse side
- Value: $75-$150, depending on severity
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 35,000 quarters
How to Identify 2022 Quarter Errors
To spot these valuable errors, follow these expert tips:
- Use a 10x to 20x magnifying glass or loupe to examine the coin's surface closely
- Look for raised lines, bumps, or unexpected textures
- Compare your coin to high-resolution images of known errors
- Pay attention to both the obverse and reverse sides
- Check the mint mark (P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, S for San Francisco)
- Examine the coin under different lighting conditions to reveal subtle imperfections
- Use a digital microscope for more detailed analysis
Factors Affecting Error Coin Values
Several factors influence the value of error coins:
- Rarity of the error
- Condition of the coin (grade)
- Demand among collectors
- Overall eye appeal
- Certification by professional grading services (e.g., PCGS, NGC)
- Historical significance of the error
- Media coverage and public interest
Error Coin Grading Scale
Professional coin grading services use a 70-point scale to assess the condition of coins, including error coins. Here's a simplified version:
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| MS-70 | Perfect uncirculated condition |
| MS-65 to MS-69 | Choice uncirculated with minimal imperfections |
| MS-60 to MS-64 | Uncirculated with some marks or blemishes |
| AU-50 to AU-58 | About uncirculated, slight wear on high points |
| XF-40 to XF-45 | Extremely fine, light wear, all details sharp |
| VF-20 to VF-35 | Very fine, moderate wear, all major details clear |
| F-12 to F-15 | Fine, considerable wear, major details visible |
| VG-8 to VG-10 | Very good, heavy wear, outline of design visible |
| G-4 to G-6 | Good, heavily worn, major details faint but visible |
Where to Sell 2022 Quarter Errors
If you've discovered a valuable error coin, consider these options for selling:
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy, Heritage Auctions)
- Reputable coin dealers and shops
- Coin shows and conventions (e.g., ANA World's Fair of Money)
- Auction houses specializing in numismatics (e.g., Stack's Bowers, Goldberg Coins & Collectibles)
- Online coin forums and collector groups
Preserving Your Error Coins
To maintain the value of your error coins:
- Handle coins by their edges using cotton gloves
- Store in non-PVC holders or albums (e.g., Dansco, Whitman)
- Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this can damage the coin's surface
- Keep coins in a cool, dry place with stable humidity
- Consider professional conservation for valuable specimens
The Future of 2022 Quarter Errors
As the American Women Quarters Program continues, more errors may be discovered. Collectors should stay informed about new findings and market trends. While current values are high, it's important to note that prices may fluctuate over time.
Expert Insights on Collecting 2022 Quarter Errors
According to John Dannreuther, professional numismatist and co-founder of Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), "The 2022 quarter errors represent a unique opportunity for collectors. The combination of a new design series and various minting errors has created a perfect storm for numismatic interest."
David J. Camire, error coin specialist and NGC grader, adds, "We're seeing an unprecedented level of attention to these 2022 quarter errors. It's reminiscent of the excitement surrounding the 2004-D Wisconsin state quarter with the extra leaf, which still commands premium prices today."
Comparative Analysis: 2022 Quarter Errors vs. Other Recent Error Coins
To put the value of 2022 quarter errors in perspective, let's compare them to other recent notable error coins:
| Error Coin | Year | Highest Known Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Nina Otero-Warren Double Die Crack | 2022 | $8,300 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter | 2004 | $6,000 |
| 2007 "Godless" Presidential Dollar | 2007 | $3,000 |
| 2019-W Quarter with Wrong Mint Mark | 2019 | $5,000 |
| 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | 1955 | $18,000 |
This comparison illustrates that while 2022 quarter errors are valuable, they haven't yet reached the heights of some historical error coins. However, their recency and the ongoing nature of the American Women Quarters Program suggest potential for future appreciation.
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Error Coins
The 2022 quarter errors offer an exciting opportunity for both seasoned numismatists and casual collectors. These minting mistakes have transformed ordinary quarters into highly sought-after treasures, with some fetching thousands of dollars. The combination of historical significance, rarity, and the thrill of the hunt makes these error coins particularly appealing.
As we've explored, the values of these coins can vary widely, from under $100 to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific error and condition. The rarity estimates provided offer a glimpse into just how uncommon these errors are, with some occurring in as few as 1 in 500,000 quarters.
For collectors, the key to success in error coin collecting is patience, knowledge, and a bit of luck. By familiarizing yourself with these errors and keeping a keen eye on your change, you might just stumble upon a small fortune. Remember to handle potential finds with care and consider professional grading for valuable specimens.
As the American Women Quarters Program continues through 2025, it's likely that new errors will be discovered, potentially creating even more valuable numismatic treasures. Stay informed, keep searching, and who knows – you might be the one to discover the next record-breaking error coin!
