If you’ve ever tossed a handful of change into a jar and forgotten about it, you might want to take a second look. Some quarters minted more than 20 years ago are now worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. These valuable coins, mostly part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, have become hot items in the world of coin collecting due to their rarity and mint condition.
Below, we highlight five rare state quarters that were released in the year 2000 and are now highly sought after by collectors.
1. Massachusetts 2000-P Quarter – Sold for $3,760
The Massachusetts quarter, released in 2000, was one of the early entries in the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program. While millions were produced, a few Philadelphia-minted (indicated by the “P”) quarters achieved an exceptionally rare Mint State grade of MS69—almost flawless under magnification.
One such MS69 specimen sold for $3,760, making it one of the most valuable in its category. These coins are not only judged by their rarity but also by the perfection of their strike, shine, and preservation.
2. Maryland 2000-P Quarter – Sold for $1,495
Another quarter from the same year that caught the attention of collectors is the Maryland 2000-P. It may not have reached the near-perfect MS69, but one in MS65 still fetched a noteworthy $1,495 at auction.
What makes this quarter interesting is the demand for high-grade coins in the 50 State Quarters collection. Collectors often seek to complete a full set in pristine condition, driving up prices for the best examples available.
3. South Carolina 2000-P Quarter – Sold for $3,525
South Carolina’s entry in the 2000 series also turned out to be a hidden gem. A Philadelphia-minted version of this coin graded MS69 sold for a whopping $3,525.
This quarter features the state outline with a palmetto tree, the state bird (Carolina Wren), and the state flower (Yellow Jessamine). Though millions were circulated, it’s the immaculate condition of the few MS69 coins that make them so valuable.
4. New Hampshire 2000-D Quarter – Sold for $633
A Denver-minted New Hampshire quarter from 2000 (marked with a “D”) also joins this elite list. Graded MS68, it managed to sell for $633—a strong return on a coin with a face value of just 25 cents.
The coin design features the state motto “Live Free or Die” alongside the iconic “Old Man of the Mountain” rock formation. For collectors looking to own top-tier examples, even a single grade can significantly impact the value.
5. Virginia 2000-P Quarter – Sold for $400
Rounding out the list is the Virginia 2000-P quarter, which commemorates the Jamestown settlement’s 400th anniversary. A coin graded MS68 sold for $400, making it a solid contender for those starting out in the world of coin collecting.
As with the others, condition is everything. Quarters in lower grades, even from the same year and design, are typically worth only face value unless they have other unique characteristics like minting errors.
Why These Quarters Are Valuable?
The 50 State Quarters Program, initiated by the United States Mint in 1999 and continuing through 2008, was designed to honor each state with a unique quarter design. It became one of the most successful numismatic programs in U.S. history, sparking interest among both seasoned collectors and the general public.
While the vast majority of these quarters remain common, certain ones have skyrocketed in value due to:
- Limited pristine examples (high Mint State grades like MS68 or MS69)
- Strong collector demand for complete high-grade sets
- Auction results setting new benchmarks for prices
MS (Mint State) grades are determined by professional grading services such as PCGS or NGC. These services evaluate coins based on criteria like luster, surface preservation, strike sharpness, and eye appeal.
How to Check If You Have One
If you’ve held onto any quarters from around the year 2000, especially those minted in Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D), it’s worth examining their condition. Look for:
- Minimal scratches
- Sharp, detailed designs
- Mirror-like finishes
To verify potential value, you can submit your coins for grading through PCGS or NGC or consult with a trusted local coin dealer.
Final Thoughts
These five rare quarters show that even modern coins can turn into valuable collectibles over time—especially if kept in mint condition. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting out, checking your spare change might reveal more than just pocket money.
With interest in collectible coins rising, now is a great time to dive into the world of coin collecting. Who knows? That jar of quarters on your shelf could be hiding a small fortune.
Vikas is a seasoned finance writer with a keen eye for unraveling complex global financial systems. From government benefits to energy rebates and recruitment trends, he empowers readers with actionable insights and clarity. When he’s not crafting impactful articles, you can find him sharing her expertise on Social Media. You can connect with him via email at [email protected].
