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The 1999-S Delaware Quarter Dollar is worth anywhere from $5 in standard Clad Proof condition to over $10,000 for rare Silver Proof errors. While most Delaware quarters found in your pocket change are only worth face value, those carrying the “S” mint mark were specially minted for collectors and hold a much higher premium.
| Coin Version | Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1999-S Clad Proof | PR69 Deep Cameo | $5 – $12 |
| 1999-S Silver Proof | PR70 Deep Cameo | $40 – $110 |
| 1999-S Die Error | Varies | $100+ |
Understanding the Historical Significance of the 1999 Delaware Quarter
The 1999-S Delaware Quarter marks a monumental moment in United States numismatics. It was the very first coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program, which lasted from 1999 to 2008. Because Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, it earned the “First State” title and the honor of leading the series. To identify if you have a winner, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the common circulation strikes and the more valuable San Francisco proofs.
The design on the reverse features Caesar Rodney’s historic 1776 horseback ride to Philadelphia. Rodney rode through thunder and rain to cast the deciding vote for Delaware in favor of American Independence. This imagery has made the Delaware quarter one of the most beloved designs in the entire series. For modern collectors, the “S” mint mark version is the “crown jewel” of the 1999 releases because these coins were never intended for circulation.
If you have found one of these in a collection or a “Proof Set,” you are looking at a coin struck with polished dies and planchets. Using the CoinKnow app, you can quickly snap a photo to verify the luster and strike quality. These proof versions come in two distinct metal compositions: copper-nickel clad and 90% silver. Knowing which one you have is the difference between a few dollars and a significant payday.
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Clad vs. Silver: Why the 1999-S Composition Matters
When examining a 1999-S Delaware Quarter, the first thing you must determine is the metal content. The San Francisco Mint produced both “Clad” proofs and “Silver” proofs. The Clad version is made of the same copper-nickel alloy as standard quarters, while the Silver version contains 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
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You can check the edge of the coin to tell them apart. If you see a copper stripe (orange/brown) along the edge, it is a Clad proof. If the edge is solid silver-white, you likely have the silver version. The 1999-S silver proof prices are significantly higher because of the precious metal content and lower mintage numbers.
| Metal Type | Mintage Quantity | Intrinsic Value |
|---|---|---|
| Copper-Nickel Clad | 3,713,359 | $0.25 |
| 90% Silver Proof | 804,565 | $5.00+ (Melv Value) |
Comparing these values in CoinKnow allows you to stay updated on the fluctuating price of silver, which directly impacts the floor price of the 1999-S Silver Quarter.
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The “Deep Cameo” Effect on 1999-S Quarter Value
Collector value for proof coins is largely driven by the “Cameo” effect. This is the visual contrast between the frosted, white-looking portrait and the mirror-like, shiny background (the fields). For a 1999-S Delaware Quarter to reach its maximum price potential, it must be graded as “Deep Cameo” or “Ultra Cameo.”
A coin that has lost this frostiness through mishandling or “fingerprinting” will drop in value significantly. Most 1999-S quarters are found in PR69 or PR70 condition. A PR70 (perfect) grade is exceptionally rare for the first year of the series and can fetch a massive premium at auction. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC are often required to prove a coin is a perfect 70.
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Understanding the current market value for 1999 State Quarters involves looking at recent auction realized prices. For example, a perfect Silver Proof might sell for $100 today, but if the market has a sudden influx of supply, that price could shift. Keeping a digital log of your collection in CoinKnow ensures you know exactly when to sell.
Rare Errors to Look For in the 1999-S Series
While the 1999-S proof quarters were subject to rigorous quality control at the San Francisco Mint, errors still happened. These “S” mint errors are some of the most sought-after items in the modern hobby. Because proofs are struck twice by the dies, errors like “Double Dies” or “Off-Center Strikes” are incredibly rare compared to the Philly or Denver business strikes.
One specific error to watch for is the “Mule” error, where the state quarter reverse is paired with a different obverse, though none have been officially confirmed for the 1999-S Delaware specifically. More common for proof coins are “Die Breaks” or “Hazing,” which actually devalues the coin. However, a “Struck Through” error, where a piece of debris gets caught between the die and the coin, can turn a $5 clad proof into a $200 treasure.
If you suspect you have an error, do not clean the coin! Cleaning a proof coin with a cloth will create “hairline” scratches that destroy its collector value instantly. Use a high-resolution camera or the zoom feature in CoinKnow to inspect the details of Caesar Rodney’s horse for any doubling or unusual marks.
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| Error Type | Rarity | Added Value |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die Obverse | Very Rare | $150 – $500 |
| Struck Through Wire | Rare | $50 – $150 |
| Broadstruck Proof | Extremely Rare | $1,000+ |
How to Sell Your 1999-S Delaware Quarter
If you’ve identified your coin as a 1999-S Silver Proof or a high-grade Clad Proof, your next step is finding a buyer. For coins worth under $20, local coin shops or eBay are your best bets. However, if you believe you have a PR70 (Perfect) grade coin, it is worth paying for professional certification. Selling a certified coin often results in a 30-50% higher price than selling an “unprocessed” or “raw” coin.
Online marketplaces are great, but be wary of fees. When listing your 1999-S Delaware Quarter, use keywords like “Deep Cameo,” “90% Silver,” and “Uncirculated.” Clear photos are the most important part of your listing. Collectors want to see that the “S” mint mark is crisp and that there are no scratches on the delicate proof surfaces.
FAQ
Q: Can I find a 1999-S Delaware Quarter in my pocket change?
A: It is very unlikely but possible. These coins were only sold in sets to collectors. If you find one in change, it is called an “impaired proof.” Because it has been circulated, its value drops significantly, usually to just a dollar or two for the clad version, or the silver melt value for the silver version.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Q: How can I tell if my 1999-S Delaware Quarter is silver?
A: The easiest way is the “Edge Test.” Look at the rim of the coin. If you see a solid silver color with no copper stripe, it is silver. Also, a silver quarter weighs 6.25 grams, while a clad quarter weighs 5.67 grams.
Q: What is the most expensive 1999-S Delaware Quarter ever sold?
A: High-grade Silver Proofs in PR70 Deep Cameo condition have sold at major auctions for over $500. However, rare error versions or those with unique “toning” (natural coloration) can occasionally exceed these amounts depending on collector demand.
Q: Is the 1999-P or 1999-D Delaware Quarter worth anything?
A: Quarters with “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) mint marks were made for general circulation. Unless they are in absolutely flawless, uncirculated condition or have a major error (like the famous “Spitting Horse” error), they are generally only worth their face value of 25 cents.