The Kansas State Quarter, part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program released in 2005, is one of the more common coins in circulation. Featuring a buffalo and sunflower design, this quarter symbolizes the state’s rich history and natural beauty. Despite its commonality, certain errors and conditions can elevate its value beyond its face value of 25 cents.
Overview of the Kansas State Quarter
With a mintage of over 500 million coins, including 263,400,000 from the Philadelphia Mint and 300,000,000 from the Denver Mint, the Kansas State Quarter is widely available. This large mintage means that the coin, in its standard condition, is not considered rare. However, the Kansas State Quarter has become notable for the errors and variations that have been discovered on certain examples.
Factors Influencing Value
While most Kansas State Quarters are worth only 25 cents, some can fetch higher prices due to specific characteristics, such as:
- Mint Errors: Coins with distinctive mint errors are more valuable to collectors.
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or mint condition can be worth more.
- Proof Versions: Special proof versions, especially those minted in silver, are more valuable.
Notable Kansas State Quarter Errors
Several notable errors have been discovered on Kansas State Quarters, which have made certain examples more desirable among collectors:
- “In God We Rust” Error: A filled die error causes the phrase “In God We Rust” instead of the correct “In God We Trust.” This is a relatively rare mistake that can significantly increase the coin’s value.
- Humpback Bison Error: A die break causes the bison’s back to appear unnaturally humped, making this error highly collectible.
- Spitting Bison Error: A die crack near the bison’s mouth creates the illusion of the bison spitting, another unique error to look for.
Valuation of Error Coins
The value of error Kansas State Quarters can vary depending on the type of error and the coin’s condition. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:
- “In God We Rust” Error: Depending on condition, these coins are valued between $5 and $100.
- Humpback Bison Error: This error is typically worth between $5 and $25.
- Spitting Bison Error: Like the Humpback Bison error, these coins are valued between $5 and $25.
Kansas State Quarter Error Values
| Error Type | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| “In God We Rust” | $5 – $100 |
| Humpback Bison | $5 – $25 |
| Spitting Bison | $5 – $25 |
Assessing Your Kansas State Quarter
If you believe your Kansas State Quarter might be worth more than face value, follow these steps to assess its potential:
- Examine for Errors: Look closely for any of the specific errors mentioned above, such as the “In God We Rust,” Humpback Bison, or Spitting Bison errors.
- Evaluate Condition: Coins in better condition, especially those that are uncirculated, are more valuable.
- Seek Professional Appraisal: For an accurate valuation, consult a reputable coin dealer or professional grading service.
Conclusion
While most Kansas State Quarters are not worth more than their 25-cent face value, coins with mint errors or in exceptional condition can be highly valuable. If you come across a quarter with one of the noted errors or in mint condition, it could be worth significantly more to collectors. Always keep an eye out for these rare finds, as they could lead to an exciting discovery.
