The 1999 Delaware State Quarter Error Coin: A Hidden Treasure Worth a Fortune!

Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution and the 1999 Delaware State Quarter, part of this highly collectible 50 State Quarters set, celebrates that momentous event on the face of a coin. It is the unique “Spitting Horse” error, which makes these ordinary quarters collectible items, that really sets some of these coins apart from others.

It talks about the characteristics that mark the Delaware State Quarter, how the “Spitting Horse” flaw increases the value of the coin, and where collectors can find them.

Delaware State Quarter: A Piece of American History

Commemorated by the Delaware State Quarter, Caesar Rodney was one of the patriots of the Revolutionary War, and people commemorate him for his legendary ride to Philadelphia to cast a decisive vote for American freedom. The first in a series of fifty state quarters, Rodney is depicted riding on horseback on the coin, thus symbolizing the spirit of dedication as well as Delaware’s progressive embracing of independence. It also gained popularity with the collectors because it contained a historical image of this coin released in 1999 and it was the first release to be available in the series.

The “Spitting Horse” Error: A Rare and Valuable Flaw

The “Spitting Horse” flaw was characterized by a small die crack running from the mouth of the horse. As a distinct flaw, it was found on only a few Delaware quarters. An error in the minting die allowed it to appear as a line that would create the illusion of the horse “spitting.” It was the unintended result of the glitch. There has also been a growing demand for this inaccuracy among coin collectors since it is both rare and exclusive to the Delaware quarter.

A “Spitting Horse” Delaware quarter can range from a few hundred dollars to more than one thousand dollars, depending on its grade. Coins that are in pristine condition generally sell for the most when they are graded mint or near-mint. That’s because their condition adds to their rarity and collector appeal.

Factors Influencing the Value of the 1999 Delaware Error Coin

Well, this article will further tell you how to calculate your values based on these elements, which constitutes the value of this “Spitting Horse” Delaware quarter. The value of these coins is determined based on a number of factors, and these include the following:

• The value of coins that have been well preserved, especially those that have not been used, is higher than that of coins worn or extensively used.
• As only a few Delaware quarters carry the error known as “Spitting Horse”, it adds on to the value of these coins.
• As interest among collectors in error coins is on the rise, the value of one-of-a-kind coins such as the “Spitting Horse” quarter rises.

In some instances, it is the grade that is the additional value added to coins graded and certified by professional services such as PCGS or NGC. High-grade coins with this fault are therefore extremely rare and therefore very attractive to collectors who are willing to pay premiums.

Where to Find Delaware State Quarters with the “Spitting Horse” Error

Some collectors have been lucky in finding a “Spitting Horse” mistake quarter while searching through pocket change or unsearched coin rolls. Given its rarity, though, it shouldn’t be very likely that it would surface in circulation. While potentially less desirable to some collectors, “Spitting Horse” Delaware quarters are also available for purchase through coin shops and internet marketplaces such as eBay. In addition, on occasion, professional coin dealers who specialize in error coins may carry these quarters in inventory.

Comparison of Popular Error Quarters

Coin Name	Year Issued	Error Type	Value Range ($)	Rarity Level
Delaware State Quarter	1999	Spitting Horse	Up to $1,000+	High
Wisconsin State Quarter	2004	High/Low Leaf	Up to $1,500+	High
Minnesota State Quarter	2005	Extra Tree	Up to $300	Moderate
Kansas State Quarter	2005	In God We Rust	Up to $500	Moderate

This errant quarter is unique because it has a unique minting flaw and a historic image, and the Delaware “Spitting Horse” quarter is no different. Its price has become significantly high as collectors continue to look for it, yet its price is not even close to being the most expensive.

Tips for Collecting Error Coins

Here are some tips to guide you as you get started collecting error coins, such as the Delaware “Spitting Horse” quarter, if you are interested in doing so:

• deterministic DIRECT VISION whose directions but weren’t here; it’s what leads to recognizing rare coins and understanding their worth, using research in known errors and getting to know those well known error coins with its methods of detection.
• In examining coins, examination by a magnifying glass or coin microscope becomes inevitable in the identification of minor imperfections or faults that might not be seen by naked eyes.
• You also want to buy coins from a trusted dealer because it is the guarantee of authenticity. This can be achieved by buying from dealers who have passed verification procedures or buying from known marketplaces with buyer protection. When buying coins online, be cautious; you do not want to purchase misrepresented or counterfeit coins.
• You have to take good care of your coins to avoid any form of damage that may befall them. You can do this by keeping your coins in their protective holders or containers, and generally, such coins will prove to be more valuable if they are new. So, keeping them mint is of utmost importance.

It would be really interesting to see how minor minting mistakes can weigh so heavily on a price of a coin, as is seen in the case with the “Spitting Horse” Delaware quarter. Collectors who will want to have in their treasure collections an exciting and very valuable coin will like this piece very much because of the fact that it possesses an infrequently encountered defect and also holds historical value.

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