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The 2001 S Kentucky States Quarter Dollar is worth anywhere from $1 in typical proof condition to over $100 for high-grade Deep Cameo specimens. While your everyday pocket change usually consists of Denver or Philadelphia strikes, finding an “S” mint mark from San Francisco often means you have a coin specially made for collectors.
Understanding the San Francisco Minted Kentucky Quarter
If you have found a 2001 Kentucky quarter with a small “S” next to George Washington’s ponytail, you have a Proof coin. Unlike the millions of quarters made for general circulation in Philadelphia and Denver, these were produced specifically for sets sold to collectors. They feature a mirror-like finish and sharp details that make the bluegrass state’s imagery pop. Identifying these correctly is the first step toward knowing if you’ve found a small treasure or just twenty-five cents.
Using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the two types of “S” mint quarters produced that year. Most people don’t realize that in 2001, the San Francisco mint released both a standard copper-nickel version and a 90% silver version. The silver version is naturally worth more due to its precious metal content, whereas the clad version’s value is driven primarily by its condition and eye appeal.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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When you use the CoinKnow app to scan your collection, you can quickly determine the metal composition. This is crucial because a silver 2001-S Kentucky quarter will always have a baseline value linked to the current price of silver, regardless of how many scratches it might have.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Distinguishing Between Clad and Silver Proofs
It is a common mistake to assume all “S” quarters are valuable for their silver. In 2001, the mint produced over 3 million clad Kentucky proofs and roughly 800,000 silver ones. The easiest way to tell them apart without expensive equipment is the “edge test.” Hold the coin up and look at the rim. If you see a solid silver-colored edge, it is likely the 90% silver variety. If you see a copper stripe, it is a standard clad proof.
The 2001 quarter value for these Proof strikes varies significantly based on this metal type. A clad proof might only be worth a few dollars, while a silver proof in pristine condition can fetch much higher premiums. Collectors look for “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations, where the frosted design contrasts sharply against a dark, reflective field.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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If you aren’t sure which one you have, the CoinKnow app provides a database of weights. Silver quarters weigh 6.25 grams, while clad quarters weigh 5.67 grams. This simple scientific check is the most reliable way for everyday Americans to verify their finds before heading to a coin shop.
Grading and Market Value Trends
The value of your 2001-S Kentucky quarter is heavily dependent on its “grade.” Grade refers to the physical condition, ranging from “Proof 60” (noticeable marks) to “Proof 70” (perfection). Even a single tiny hairline scratch can drop the price of a coin from $50 down to $5. Because these were never meant to circulate, any 2001-S quarter you find in your pocket will likely be “impaired,” meaning it has lost its mirror finish and is worth closer to its face value.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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For those looking at the higher end of the market, the 2001 States Quarter market data shows that demand remains steady for the 50 State Quarters series. Kentucky was the 15th state honored in the program, and its design featuring Federal Hill and a thoroughbred horse is a favorite among Kentucky residents and horse enthusiasts alike.
Prices for these coins are generally stable, but “Perfect 70” graded coins by services like PCGS or NGC can spark bidding wars at auction. For the average person, the most likely find is a Proof 65 to 69, which represents a nice little profit if found at face value.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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| Coin Variety & Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| 2001-S Kentucky Clad Proof (PR65) | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| 2001-S Kentucky Clad Proof (PR70 DCAM) | $25.00 – $45.00 |
| 2001-S Kentucky Silver Proof (PR65) | $8.00 – $12.00 |
| 2001-S Kentucky Silver Proof (PR70 DCAM) | $110.00 – $150.00 |
| 2001-S Kentucky Impaired Proof (Circulated) | $0.25 – $0.50 |
What Makes the Kentucky Quarter Special?
The design of the Kentucky quarter is iconic. It features a side view of a thoroughbred racehorse behind a white picket fence, with the historic mansion “Federal Hill” in the background. Federal Hill is the site where Stephen Foster supposedly wrote the state song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” For many, this coin isn’t just money; it’s a piece of Southern history.
When you’re sorting through your change, keep an eye out for any 2001 quarters that look exceptionally shiny. These “S” mint coins often escape from broken-up proof sets and end up in circulation. While they lose their “collector” grade quickly, they remain a fun find for hobbyists. Using CoinKnow helps you keep track of these finds so you can see your collection’s value grow over time as you find more states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a 2001-S Kentucky quarter real silver?
A: It could be. The San Francisco mint produced both copper-nickel clad versions and 90% silver versions. Check the edge of the coin; if you see brown copper, it’s clad. If it’s solid silver/white, it is the silver version.
Q: How much is a 2001-S Kentucky quarter worth?
A: Most clad proofs are worth $1 to $5. Silver proofs are usually worth $10 to $15 based on silver content, but perfect Mint State 70 specimens can sell for over $100.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Q: Can I find a 2001-S quarter in my pocket change?
A: While rare, it does happen. These are usually called “impaired proofs.” Because they have been scratched and touched, they generally only carry a value of 25 to 50 cents, but they are still a cool find!
Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2001 Kentucky quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the “heads” (obverse) side, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail, just below the “In God We Trust” motto.