In 2004, a small mistake at the U.S. Mint created a rare coin that’s now a treasure for collectors. The Wisconsin state quarter, part of the 50 State Quarters program, has a unique error known as the “Extra Leaf” variety. This tiny flaw makes some of these quarters worth over $120,000. If you have loose change lying around, it’s time to check your wallets, piggy banks, or old coin jars. You might be holding a fortune without even knowing it.
What Makes the Extra Leaf Quarter Special?
The Wisconsin quarter features a cow, a wheel of cheese, and a corn stalk on its reverse side. The error happened when some quarters were struck with an extra leaf on the corn stalk. There are two types: the “High Extra Leaf” and the “Low Extra Leaf.” The High Extra Leaf has an additional leaf curving upward, while the Low Extra Leaf has one pointing downward. These errors were likely caused by a damaged die at the Denver Mint, making these coins rare and valuable.
How Much Are They Worth?
The value of an Extra Leaf Wisconsin quarter depends on its condition and type. In top condition, known as Mint State, these coins can fetch incredible prices. According to recent auction records, a High Extra Leaf quarter sold for $126,500 in 2024, while a Low Extra Leaf brought in $103,000. Even in circulated condition, they can sell for $1,500 to $6,000. Collectors love these coins because they’re a rare mistake from a popular coin series.
| Type | Circulated Value | Mint State Value |
|---|---|---|
| High Extra Leaf | $1,500 – $4,000 | Up to $126,500 |
| Low Extra Leaf | $1,200 – $3,500 | Up to $103,000 |
How to Spot One in Your Change
Identifying an Extra Leaf quarter is simple if you know what to look for. Grab a magnifying glass and check any 2004 Wisconsin quarters with a “D” mint mark (for Denver). Look at the corn stalk on the left side of the coin’s reverse. If you see an extra leaf above or below the main leaves, you might have a winner. Compare it to images online or in coin guides to confirm. Be careful—some people try to fake the error by altering regular quarters, so professional grading is a smart move.
Why Collectors Are Crazy About It
The Extra Leaf quarter is a big deal because mint errors like this don’t happen often. The 50 State Quarters program, which ran from 1999 to 2008, got millions of people into coin collecting. Finding a rare error from this series feels like striking gold. Stories of everyday people finding these coins in their change add to the excitement. One collector found a Low Extra Leaf quarter in a vending machine and sold it for $2,300, turning pocket change into a windfall.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found an Extra Leaf quarter, handle it carefully to avoid scratches or wear. Store it in a coin holder or plastic sleeve. Take it to a reputable coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication. They’ll confirm if it’s real and grade its condition, which can boost its value. Even if it’s not an Extra Leaf, checking your coins is a fun way to explore the world of numismatics. So, dig through your change—you might be sitting on a small fortune.