A Surprise in Your Change
A 2016 Shawnee National Forest quarter recently sold for $3,800 at auction due to a rare minting error called a reverse cud. This quarter, part of the America the Beautiful series, features Camel Rock and a red-tailed hawk. The reverse cud error, a raised bump on the coin’s edge, makes it stand out to collectors. Found in everyday change, this error turned a 25-cent coin into a treasure. With millions of these quarters in circulation, anyone could stumble upon a valuable error by checking their coins carefully.
Understanding the Reverse Cud Error
A reverse cud happens when a piece of the minting die breaks, leaving a gap that fills with metal during striking. On the 2016 Shawnee quarter, this error appears as a raised, irregular lump along the rim, often near the forest design or lettering. The $3,800 sale in 2024 was for a coin in near-perfect condition, graded MS-67 by PCGS, with a clear and large cud. Such errors are rare because the U.S. Mint has strict quality controls, but mistakes slip through, making these coins highly sought after by collectors.
Why This Quarter Is Valuable
The 2016 Shawnee quarter, minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, honors Illinois’s Shawnee National Forest. Over 300 million were produced, but only a few have errors like the reverse cud. The coin’s value comes from its rarity, condition, and the error’s visibility. For example, a cud near the hawk or Camel Rock is more striking and valuable. Other errors, like die chips or doubled dies, exist but are less dramatic. The $3,800 sale shows how a small flaw can turn a common coin into a collector’s prize.
| Error Type | Estimated Value (MS-65 to MS-67) |
|---|---|
| Reverse Cud | $500-$3,800 |
| Die Chip | $50-$150 |
How to Spot a Rare Shawnee Quarter
You don’t need to be an expert to find a valuable 2016 Shawnee quarter. Start by checking coins for a raised bump along the rim on the reverse side, where the forest or hawk is shown. Use a magnifying glass to spot subtle errors like small cuds or die chips. Compare the coin’s weight to the standard 5.67 grams, as errors can sometimes affect weight. Look at coins from Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) mints, as these were circulated. If you find something unusual, have it graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm its value.
| Where to Look | What to Check For |
|---|---|
| Coin Rolls | Raised bump on rim |
| Change Jars | Irregular edge near design |
Tips for Collectors and Beginners
Coin collecting is a fun hobby that can lead to big finds. Check quarters from 2016, especially those with the Shawnee design, in your pocket change or bank rolls. Visit coin shops or online platforms like eBay to learn about error coins. Social media posts on X show collectors sharing photos of cuds and other errors, which can help you know what to look for. Getting a coin graded can cost money, but it ensures authenticity. A simple glance at your change could reveal a coin worth hundreds or thousands.
The Thrill of the Hunt
The 2016 Shawnee quarter with a reverse cud proves that valuable coins are still out there. Stories like the $3,800 sale inspire people to start checking their change. Coin collecting is not just about money; it’s about the excitement of finding something rare. With millions of quarters in circulation, the next big find could be in your wallet. Keep your eyes open, and you might discover a small fortune hiding in plain sight.