The 2003 Missouri State Quarter, part of the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, was released in August 2003 to commemorate Missouri’s statehood.
While most of these quarters circulate at their face value of 25 cents, certain high-grade specimens have garnered significant attention from collectors, with some fetching prices as high as $4,313.
But what makes these particular coins so valuable? Let’s delve into the details.
Understanding the 2003 Missouri State Quarter
The 2003 Missouri State Quarter features a design that pays homage to the state’s rich history:
- Obverse: The standard depiction of George Washington, accompanied by the inscriptions “United States of America,” “Liberty,” “In God We Trust,” and “Quarter Dollar.”
- Reverse: An image of Lewis and Clark navigating the Missouri River with the Gateway Arch in the background, symbolizing the Corps of Discovery’s expedition. The design includes the text “Missouri 1821,” “Corps of Discovery 1804-2004,” and “E Pluribus Unum.”
Specifications:
- Diameter: 24.30 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Edge: Reeded
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Mint Marks: ‘P’ for Philadelphia and ‘D’ for Denver
Factors Influencing Value
The value of a 2003 Missouri State Quarter is primarily determined by:
- Condition (Grade): Coins in higher grades, especially MS68, are rare and highly sought after.
- Minting Errors: While no major errors have been documented for this quarter, any anomalies could potentially increase value.
- Special Editions: Silver proof versions, marked with an ‘S’ mint mark, are more valuable than their standard counterparts.
Record-Breaking Sale
A 2003-P Missouri State Quarter, graded MS68, achieved a record sale price of $4,313 at a Heritage Auctions event in December 2007. This exceptional price underscores the demand for coins in pristine condition.
Identifying Valuable Coins
To determine if your 2003 Missouri State Quarter might be valuable:
- Examine the Grade: Coins graded MS65 or higher are considered high quality.
- Check for Special Features: Look for silver content (indicated by an ‘S’ mint mark) or any unique characteristics.
- Consult Experts: Professional coin graders can provide accurate assessments of your coin’s value.
Estimated Values Based on Grade
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS60 | $0.25 |
| MS65 | $1.75 |
| MS68 | $4,313 |
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on market demand.
Where to Buy or Sell
If you’re interested in purchasing or selling a 2003 Missouri State Quarter:
- Reputable Coin Dealers: They can authenticate and appraise your coin.
- Auction Houses: Platforms like Heritage Auctions specialize in rare coin sales.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites such as eBay offer a vast marketplace for coin transactions.
While the 2003 Missouri State Quarter is commonly found in circulation, certain high-grade versions have become valuable collector’s items, with some reaching prices over $4,000.
If you suspect your quarter might be one of these rare specimens, consider having it professionally graded to determine its true value.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 2003 Missouri State Quarter is valuable?
Examine the coin’s condition and look for any unique features. High-grade coins (MS65 and above) are more valuable.
What does ‘MS68’ mean?
‘MS68’ refers to a coin’s grade, indicating it’s in mint state with minimal imperfections.
Are there any known errors on the 2003 Missouri State Quarter?
No significant errors have been documented for this coin.
How do I get my coin graded?
Send it to a professional grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).