Wisconsin Quarter : It may be pocket change to most people, but one 2004 Wisconsin state quarter could be worth thousands — all thanks to a tiny but significant minting error that collectors are scrambling to find. If you’ve got one with the right “extra leaf,” you could be looking at the down payment for a new car — or more.
A Quarter That’s Anything But Ordinary
The 2004 Wisconsin state quarter, part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, features a cow, a round of cheese, and an ear of corn. But among the millions minted, a few contain an unusual flaw: an extra leaf on the corn stalk.
This error appears in two known varieties — the “Extra Leaf High” and “Extra Leaf Low” — referring to the position of the additional leaf extending from the left side of the corn. The error was discovered shortly after the coin’s release and has since become one of the most sought-after modern coin errors.
How Valuable Is It?
Depending on condition and market demand, the extra leaf error quarter can fetch anywhere from $200 to over $6,000. In mint-state condition (graded MS-65 or higher), the rarer varieties have sold for $3,000 to $6,500 at auction. That’s enough to cover a solid used vehicle — or even the down payment on a new one.
In 2024, a collector paid $6,300 for a graded “Extra Leaf Low” variant in pristine condition, proving that interest remains strong even two decades after its discovery.
What Causes the Error?
The origin of the extra leaf is still debated among experts. Most believe it was caused by a die gouge — accidental damage to the die used to strike the coins — possibly from human error during mint preparation. The added detail looks like a small leaf protruding unnaturally from the corn’s left side.
Because the leaf doesn’t appear on the official design and is only present in select quarters struck at the Denver Mint (marked with a “D”), the coins with the error are rare and collectible.
Where to Look
If you’re checking your change or digging through a coin jar, focus on the following:
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Mint Mark: Look for a 2004 Wisconsin quarter with a “D” mint mark (for Denver).
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Corn Stalk Detail: Examine the base of the corn’s left side for an unusual extra leaf — either pointing higher or lower than the others.
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Condition: While circulated coins still hold value, uncirculated or mint-state coins are worth significantly more.
A jeweler’s loupe or a basic magnifying glass will help spot the error more easily.
Still Out There
Thousands of these error coins are believed to be still in circulation or hidden away in drawers and coin collections, waiting to be discovered. Unlike some ultra-rare coins that were never released to the public, the extra leaf Wisconsin quarters made it into everyday use.
That means you could find one in your pocket change today.
A Modern Coin Collecting Phenomenon
The extra leaf quarter is a favorite among collectors not only because of its rarity, but also because it represents the unpredictable, exciting nature of mint errors.
“It’s one of those coins that got people really interested in modern error collecting,” says coin expert Susan Headley. “People realized that even newer coins could be worth serious money.”
Check Your Quarters
As the market for rare coins continues to grow, small errors like this can translate into big paydays. If you come across a 2004 Wisconsin quarter, don’t spend it just yet — take a close look. That tiny extra leaf could mean the difference between spare change and a shiny new ride.
Bottom line: One man’s quarter is another man’s car payment. Don’t underestimate the power of a tiny mistake.
Wisconsin Quarter Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
Q1: What is the 2004 Wisconsin quarter error?
A: The error involves an extra leaf on the ear of corn depicted on the reverse side of the 2004 Wisconsin state quarter. There are two known variations: the “Extra Leaf High” and “Extra Leaf Low”, based on the position of the additional leaf.
Q2: How much is the extra leaf quarter worth?
A: Depending on the condition and type of error, these coins have sold for anywhere from $200 to over $6,000. Uncirculated or high-grade examples are typically worth the most.
Q3: Where were the error quarters minted?
A: All known extra leaf error quarters were struck at the Denver Mint. Look for a “D” mint mark on the obverse (front) of the coin under the year.
Q4: How can I tell if I have one?
A: Examine the corn stalk on the reverse side of the coin. On the left side of the main ear of corn, look for an unusual protruding leaf, either pointing downward (Low Leaf) or upward (High Leaf). A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe is helpful for spotting the detail.
Q5: How many of these coins exist?
A: The exact number is unknown, but estimates suggest thousands were released into circulation. They are considered rare but not unique, and more are likely still out there.