The 1999-P Delaware State Quarter is worth anywhere from its $0.25 face value in circulated condition to over $1,200 for rare high-grade specimens. While most quarters found in your pocket change won’t make you rich, specific mint errors and pristine conditions can command a significant premium from collectors.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $0.75 – $1.50 |
| Mint State 65 (MS65) | $5.00 – $12.00 |
| Mint State 67 (MS67) | $30.00 – $85.00 |
| Mint State 68+ (Rare) | $500 – $1,200+ |
The History and Significance of the 1999 Delaware Quarter
The 1999 Delaware State Quarter holds a special place in American numismatic history as the very first coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program. Launched by the U.S. Mint to commemorate each state’s admission to the Union, this coin honors the “First State.”
If you are just starting your collection, using the best coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a common pocket find and a valuable historical artifact. The Delaware quarter features Caesar Rodney on his historic 1776 ride to Philadelphia to cast a tie-breaking vote for independence.
Because it was the first of its kind, many people hoarded these coins when they first debuted. With a mintage of 370,120,000 from the Philadelphia Mint (marked with a ‘P’ mint mark), they are relatively common. However, finding one in “Gem” condition is a much harder task.
To get a better sense of what yours might be worth, you can check various 1999 quarter value guides online to see how different mint marks like ‘P’, ‘D’, and ‘S’ affect the price. Using tools like CoinHix can also provide real-time updates on what these coins are actually selling for on auction sites.
Determining the 1999-P Delaware Quarter Value by Grade
When assessing the price, “grade” is everything. Grading is the process of determining the physical condition of a coin, ranging from 1 (nearly smooth) to 70 (perfect). For the 1999-P Delaware quarter, most coins you find in circulation will be graded as “Circulated” or “About Uncirculated.”
For everyday Americans, a shiny quarter might look “new,” but to a professional, it might have tiny scratches called “bag marks.” Coins that have never been used in commerce are called Mint State (MS). For enthusiasts looking for the most accurate data, reviewing the 1999-P Delaware quarter MS prices can reveal why a grade difference of just one point can mean a jump of hundreds of dollars.
The Philadelphia Mint used a copper-nickel clad composition for these coins. Over time, these materials can tarnish or develop “toning.” Interestingly, some collectors pay extra for coins with beautiful rainbow toning, though most prefer the original brilliant luster.
| Sheldon Scale Grade | Description | Recent Sold Price |
|---|---|---|
| MS62 | Typical Uncirculated; some marks | $2 – $4 |
| MS65 | Choice Mint State; very few marks | $15 |
| MS67 | Superb Quality; eye appeal is high | $65 |
| MS69 | Almost Perfect; extremely rare | $1,000+ |
Valuable Errors to Look For in 1999-P Delaware Quarters
The real “money” in the 50 State Quarters series often lies in mint errors. During the high-speed striking process, things occasionally go wrong at the Philadelphia Mint. If you find a 1999-P quarter that looks unusual, don’t spend it!
One of the most famous errors for this year involves coins struck on the wrong planchet (the metal disc). For example, some 1999 quarters were accidentally struck on nickel planchets or even experimental “Saccawea alloy” planchets. These can be worth thousands of dollars.
Another common error is the “Die Crack.” As the metal dies strike thousands of coins per hour, they eventually crack. This leaves a raised line of metal on the coin’s surface. While small cracks don’t add much value, large or oddly placed cracks can intrigue collectors using apps like CoinHix.
Double dies are also highly sought after. This happens when the hub strikes the die twice at slightly different angles. Look closely at the lettering and the “1999” date; if you see clear doubling or “shadow” letters, you might have a valuable error.
| Error Type | What to Look For | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Center Strike | Design is missing on one side | $20 – $200 |
| Broadstruck | Coin is flatter and wider than normal | $15 – $50 |
| Wrong Planchet | Struck on a cent or nickel disc | $500+ |
Where to Sell Your Valued 1999-P Delaware Quarters
If you believe you have found a high-value 1999-P Delaware quarter, your next step is determining where to sell it. For coins worth only a few dollars, local coin shops or eBay are usually your best bet. These venues allow for quick transactions with minimal fees.
However, if you have a coin that looks like it could be worth $500 or more, you should consider professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC. A “certified” coin is much easier to sell because the grade is guaranteed. Once certified, major auction houses like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections become viable options.
Before you spend money on grading fees, use CoinHix to compare your coin to photos of high-grade specimens. This will give you a realistic expectation of whether the coin is worth the $20-$40 investment in professional grading. Most circulated 1999 quarters are unfortunately just worth their face value.
Why the Philadelphia ‘P’ Mint Mark Matters
The ‘P’ mint mark on your Delaware quarter signifies it was minted in Philadelphia. Historically, the Philadelphia mint did not always put mint marks on its coins, but by 1999, it was standard practice for quarters.
During the inaugural year of the State Quarters program, the Philadelphia Mint produced slightly fewer Delaware quarters than the Denver Mint (‘D’). While the difference of a few million coins is negligible in terms of scarcity, the “P” mint strike quality for 1999 is often scrutinized by collectors.
In many years, one mint produces higher quality strikes than the other. For 1999, finding a ‘P’ mint Delaware quarter with “Full Detail” on Caesar Rodney’s horse and clothing is a key factor for achieving a high grade. The better the strike, the higher the 1999-P Delaware States Quarter Dollar value will be.
| Mint Mark | Mintage | Rarity Scale |
|---|---|---|
| 1999-P (Philadelphia) | 370,120,000 | Common |
| 1999-D (Denver) | 401,424,000 | Common |
| 1999-S (Proof) | 3,713,359 | Uncommon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 1999-P Delaware quarter made of silver?
A: No, standard 1999-P Delaware quarters are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. The U.S. Mint did produce silver versions in 1999, but those were only minted in San Francisco (marked with an ‘S’) and were sold specifically in Silver Proof Sets to collectors.
Q: Why is my 1999 Delaware quarter “spitting horse” error worth money?
A: The “Spitting Horse” error is actually more common on the 1999 Delaware quarter than many realize. It is caused by a die crack that runs from the horse’s mouth. While a fun variety to find, it usually only adds $5 to $20 to the value of the coin unless it is in perfect condition.
Q: Can I find a valuable 1999-P quarter in my change today?
A: Yes, it is still possible! While most quarters in circulation are worn, people occasionally break open old jars or collection folders and spend them. Always look for coins that have a mirror-like finish or unusual “errors” like missing letters or off-center designs.
Q: How can I tell if my coin is worth sending to a professional grader?
A: Generally, you should only send a coin for grading if its estimated value is at least $50. For a 1999-P Delaware quarter, this means the coin must be in nearly perfect condition (MS67 or higher) or have a significant, verified mint error. Use a magnifying glass to check for any tiny scratches on Caesar Rodney’s face or the horse’s body.