1999-S Connecticut State Quarter Value — Collector’s Guide

The 1999-S Connecticut State Quarter is worth anywhere from $3 in standard Clad Proof condition to over $600 for exceptional Silver versions in high grades. Whether you found one in a dusty drawer or inherited a collection, these shiny San Francisco-minted coins are distinct from your everyday pocket change.

Coin Version	Condition	Estimated Value
1999-S Clad Proof	PR69 Deep Cameo	$3 – $7
1999-S Silver Proof	PR70 Deep Cameo	$40 – $65
1999-S Silver (Rare Error)	Gem Uncirculated	$500+

Understanding the 1999-S Connecticut Quarter Mint Mark

When you look at a 1999 Connecticut quarter, the first thing to check is the small letter next to George Washington’s ponytail. If you see an “S,” your coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) quarters you spend at the grocery store, “S” quarters were never intended for circulation.

They were produced as “Proof” coins specifically for collectors. If you aren’t sure how to tell the difference between a proof and a business strike, using the top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the various mint marks and finishes instantly.

Proof coins are struck twice using polished dies, giving them a mirror-like background and frosted details. Because they were sold in protective plastic sets, finding one in your pocket is rare. Finding a 1999-S Connecticut quarter usually means someone broke open a collector set to spend the money. While these coins are beautiful, their value depends heavily on whether they are made of copper-nickel or 90% silver.

The Difference Between Clad and Silver Proof Values

The 1999-S Connecticut quarter comes in two distinct metal compositions. The “Clad” version is made of the same copper-nickel alloy as standard quarters. The “Silver” version is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. Identifying which one you have is the most important step in determining its worth.

One easy trick is the “edge test.” Look at the rim of the coin. If you see a brownish-copper stripe, it is a clad coin. If the edge is solid silver-white, you likely have the silver version. You can also weigh them: clad coins weigh 5.67 grams, while silver quarters weigh 6.25 grams.

The current market price for the 1999 Connecticut quarter in silver is significantly higher because of its precious metal content. Even if the coin is scratched, it will always be worth at least its “melt value” in silver.

Metal Type	Weight	Mintage Population
Clad Proof (S)	5.67g	3,713,000
Silver Proof (S)	6.25g	804,500

Grading Your 1999-S Connecticut Quarter

Condition is everything in the world of coin collecting. Professionals use a 70-point scale to grade coins. A “PR70” (Proof 70) is a perfect coin with no visible flaws even under magnification. A “PR65” might have tiny hairline scratches.

Most 1999-S quarters found in original packaging will grade at least PR68 or PR69. However, if the coin has been handled or carried in a pocket, it may lose its “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) contrast. This is the sharp difference between the white frosted design and the black mirror-like background.

By using the CoinKnow app, you can take a high-resolution photo of your coin to get a rough idea of its grade. If your silver quarter grades a perfect PR70, its value can jump from a few dollars to over $50. Collectors pay a premium for perfection, especially for the inaugural year of the State Quarters program.

The Historical Significance of the “Charter Oak” Design

The 1999 Connecticut quarter was the fifth coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program. It features the famous “Charter Oak,” an incredibly large white oak tree that played a major role in American colonial history.

According to legend, in 1687, Captain Joseph Wadsworth hid the Connecticut Charter inside a cavity in this tree to prevent British agents from seizing it. This act of defiance preserved the colony’s right to self-government.

The design by T. James Ferrell captures the grandeur of this tree. Because this was the first year of the program, many people saved these coins, thinking they would be worth a fortune. While they aren’t worth millions, the 1999 proof set values remain steady because of the historical interest in the Charter Oak design.

Rare Errors to Look For in 1999-S Quarters

While proof coins are usually inspected more strictly than regular coins, errors still happen. One of the most famous (and valuable) errors is the “mule” error or a coin struck on the wrong planchet.

For example, if a 1999-S Connecticut design was accidentally struck on a experimental gold-tinted planchet intended for the Sacagawea dollar, that coin could be worth thousands of dollars. Another common error to look for is a “doubled die,” where the lettering or the tree design appears to have a shadow or second image.

If you suspect you have a unique error, check the CoinKnow database to see if similar errors have been reported. Even minor “die cracks” on a proof coin can make it a one-of-a-kind item for specialized collectors who focus on anomalies rather than perfection.

Potential Error Type	Visual Clues	Estimated Rarity
Doubled Die Obverse	Blurry or thick lettering on “Liberty”	Very Rare
Wrong Planchet	Off-color or wrong weight	Extremely Rare
Die Break (CUD)	Raised blob of metal on the rim	Rare

How to Sell Your 1999-S Connecticut Quarter

If you’ve identified that you have a valuable silver version or a high-grade clad proof, you might be wondering how to turn it into cash. Local coin shops are the fastest option, but they will usually offer you “wholesale” prices so they can resell the coin for a profit.

For maximum value, online marketplaces like eBay or Heritage Auctions are your best bet. Make sure to take clear photos of both sides and the edge of the coin. If the coin is in a professional slab from PCGS or NGC, it will sell much faster and for a higher price.

Before listing your coin, use CoinKnow to track recent auction results. This ensures you don’t list your silver proof Connecticut quarter for $5 when it might be worth $40 or more on a good day.

Conclusion: Is the 1999-S Connecticut Quarter Worth Keeping?

Whether you are a serious numismatist or just someone who found a shiny coin in a change jar, the 1999-S Connecticut quarter is a piece of American history worth examining. While the clad versions are common, the silver proofs and error coins represent significant value.

The State Quarters program changed the way Americans looked at their money. The Connecticut release remains a favorite due to its intricate tree design and the legendary story behind it. Keep your “S” mint marked coins in a cool, dry place to prevent toning, and you may find their value grows as the years go by.

FAQ

Q: Why is my 1999-S quarter more shiny than a regular quarter?

A: Your coin is a “Proof” coin. These are made with special polished dies and planchets at the San Francisco Mint specifically for collectors. They have a mirror-like finish that is much more reflective than the coins used in daily commerce.

Q: How can I tell if my 1999-S Connecticut quarter is silver?

A: Check the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver color with no copper stripe, it is likely the 90% silver version. You can also weigh it; a silver quarter weighs 6.25 grams, while a regular clad quarter weighs 5.67 grams.

Q: Can I find a 1999-S Connecticut quarter in my pocket change?

A: It is rare, but possible. Sometimes people spend proof coins by mistake or after breaking open a proof set. If you find one, it is usually “impaired,” meaning it has scratches from being in circulation, which lowers its collector value.

Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1999-S Connecticut quarter?

A: While standard silver proofs sell for $30-$60, rare “perfect” specimens graded PR70 by PCGS can occasionally fetch hundreds of dollars at auction, especially if they feature exceptional “Deep Cameo” toning.