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The 2006-S North Dakota State Quarter is worth anywhere from $0.50 in used condition to over $50 in high-grade silver proof condition. Whether you found one in your pocket or a velvet box, this coin celebrates the “Peace Garden State” with a design that collectors still admire today.
| Condition / Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Clad Proof (S Mint) | $0.50 – $4.00 |
| Silver Proof (S Mint) | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Deep Cameo PR70 | $25.00 – $65.00 |
Identifying the 2006-S North Dakota Quarter Variation
Before you get too excited about your find, you need to determine exactly which 2006-S North Dakota quarter you are holding. In 2006, the San Francisco Mint produced two distinct types of quarters for collectors: the copper-nickel “clad” proof and the 90% silver proof. Both carry the “S” mint mark, which is located on the right side of George Washington’s bust on the obverse.
If you aren’t sure which one you have, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the mirror-like finishes and the metallic composition. The North Dakota design itself is quite striking, featuring two American Bison grazing in front of the badlands with the sun setting in the background. It was the 39th coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program.
For a quick check, look at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver stripe with no copper (orange/brown) showing, you likely have the silver version. If you see a sandwich of copper and nickel, it’s the standard clad proof. CoinKnow users often find that the silver version is the one that really holds its value over time compared to standard circulation strikes.
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Value of 2006-S North Dakota Clad Proof Quarters
The Clad Proof version was made for the mass market and included in standard annual proof sets. While these coins were never intended for circulation, they occasionally find their way into change jars when someone breaks open a set. In PR65 to PR68 condition, these coins are very affordable, usually trading for just a few dollars.
Collectors who want the absolute best seek out “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations. This refers to the high contrast between the frosty buffalo design and the mirror-like field. According to current 2006 quarter value guides, a perfect PR70 specimen of the clad variety can fetch upwards of $30.
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Most “raw” (un-graded) clad proofs sell for about $1 to $2. They are beautiful coins, but because millions were made, they aren’t considered rare. If you have a collection of these, the CoinKnow app can help you track their appreciation as part of your overall portfolio.
| Grade | Price (Clad Proof) |
|---|---|
| PR65 | $1.25 |
| PR67 | $3.50 |
| PR69 | $8.00 |
| PR70 | $32.00 |
What Makes the 2006-S Silver Proof More Valuable?
If your North Dakota quarter is the Silver Proof version, you have something with inherent “melt value” as well as numismatic value. These were struck in 90% silver and 10% copper. Because the price of silver fluctuates, these coins will always be worth significantly more than 25 cents, even if they are scratched or damaged.
The market price for silver state quarters generally starts around $8 to $10 based on silver content alone. However, a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo North Dakota Silver Proof is a prize for any collector, often selling for $50 to $75 at major coin auctions.
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When evaluating your silver coins, check for “toning.” Some silver quarters develop a rainbow-like patina over the years if they were stored in certain types of paper or albums. This unique coloration can actually increase the value to the right buyer. CoinKnow features a high-resolution identification tool that can help you determine if your coin’s toning is natural or artificially induced.
| Grade | Price (Silver Proof) |
|---|---|
| PR65 | $11.00 |
| PR68 | $16.00 |
| PR70 | $65.00 |
The Design History of the North Dakota Quarter
The reverse of the 2006 North Dakota quarter was designed by Donna Weaver and sculpted by John Mercanti. It prominently displays two American Bison, which were once near extinction but found a sanctuary in the North Dakota badlands. The design was chosen by Governor John Hoeven after a statewide contest that saw thousands of entries from students and residents.
The bison symbolize the rugged heritage of the state and its commitment to conservation. In the background, the distinctive buttes and canyons of the badlands are visible, specifically referencing Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This park is significant because it was in North Dakota that Roosevelt developed the conservation policies he later implemented as President.
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While the design is beautiful, it is also highly detailed. On “S” mint proof coins, these details should be incredibly sharp. If you notice any blurring or unusual bumps on the buffalo’s fur, you might be looking at a die variety or an error coin, which could significantly boost the value.
Key Error Varieties to Watch For
While 2006-S proofs are generally well-inspected by the Mint, errors do occasionally slip through. The most common errors found in the State Quarter series include “doubled dies” and “struck through” errors. A doubled die occurs when the hub strikes the die twice at slightly different angles, creating a ghosting or doubling effect on the lettering or the bison.
“Struck through” errors happen when a foreign object—like a piece of cloth or a drop of grease—gets between the die and the coin blank. This leaves an indentation or a “mushy” look to part of the design. Errors on proof coins are extremely rare because quality control at the San Francisco Mint is much stricter than at the Philadelphia or Denver mints.
If you think you’ve found an error on your 2006-S North Dakota quarter, don’t clean it! Cleaning a coin can destroy its collectors’ value instantly. Instead, use a magnifying glass or the zoom feature on CoinKnow to get a closer look at the suspected error and compare it to known examples in numismatic databases.
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Where to Buy and Sell Your 2006-S Quarter
If you’re looking to sell your coin, your best bet depends on its grade. For common clad proofs, local coin shops or eBay are usually the easiest routes. However, keep in mind that shipping costs might exceed the coin’s value if it’s only worth $2. Bundle them together to make a sale more worthwhile.
For high-grade PR70 or silver versions, professional auction houses or specialized coin dealers are better options. These buyers understand the premium associated with perfect condition and silver content. Always check current “sold” listings on auction sites rather than “asking” prices to get a realistic idea of the market.
Whether you are a casual hunter or a serious collector, the 2006-S North Dakota quarter is a fantastic piece of American history. It represents a state of immense beauty and a successful era in US coinage. By keeping your coins in protective holders and monitoring their value, you ensure that this “pocket change” remains a valuable part of your collection for years to come.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 2006-S North Dakota quarter is silver?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If the edge is solid silver/white with no visible layer of copper (brown/orange), it is likely the 90% silver proof. You can also weigh it; the silver proof weighs 6.25 grams, while the clad version weighs 5.67 grams.
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Q: Is the 2006-S North Dakota quarter rare?
A: It is not “rare” in the sense that millions were minted. However, it is much less common than the P or D mint versions found in everyday change, as the S mint coins were only sold in special collectors’ sets by the US Mint.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 2006-S North Dakota quarter?
A: While most sell for under $20, “perfect” PR70 Deep Cameo Silver Proofs have been known to sell for over $100 at specific auctions when two collectors are competing for a registry set piece.
Q: Can I find a 2006-S quarter in my pocket change?
A: It is rare, but possible. These are called “proofs in the wild.” Usually, they will look a bit scratched or dull (impaired proofs) because they were handled like normal money, which significantly lowers their value to about face value or slightly more for the copper-nickel version.