1999-S Connecticut State Quarter Value: Price Guide
The 1999-S Connecticut State Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 in typical proof condition to over $1,200 for rare high-grade silver versions. While most of these coins found in change are worth exactly 25 cents, those minted in San Francisco (the “S” mint mark) were specifically made for collectors and can hold significant premium value.
| Coin Version | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1999-S Clad Proof | PR69 Deep Cameo | $5 – $10 |
| 1999-S Silver Proof | PR69 Deep Cameo | $15 – $25 |
| 1999-S Silver Proof | PR70 Deep Cameo | $75 – $1,200+ |
Understanding the 1999-S Connecticut Quarter Variations
If you’ve just found a shiny quarter from 1999 featuring the Charter Oak tree, the first thing you need to check is the mint mark. Unlike the standard quarters minted in Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) for everyday circulation, the 1999-S version was struck at the San Francisco Mint. These coins were never intended to be spent at the grocery store. Instead, they were issued in special sets for hobbyists.
Because these coins were handled with care from the moment they were born, they usually look much nicer than a “pocket change” quarter. If you aren’t sure which version you have, utilizing a free coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the two types of “S” quarters: the Copper-Nickel Clad and the 90% Silver version.
To determine the exact 1999 quarter value, you must first confirm the metal content. The silver version is heavier and has a bright white edge, whereas the clad version shows a copper stripe on the rim. For everyday collectors, using CoinKnow is a great way to log your finds and keep track of current market trends for these specific proof issues.
The Difference Between Clad and Silver Proofs
The San Francisco Mint produced two distinct varieties of the 1999-S Connecticut Quarter. The first is the Clad Proof, which is made of the same composition as standard quarters (copper and nickel). These are beautiful coins with a mirror-like finish, but they are very common. Over 3.7 million of these were minted, meaning most are only worth a few dollars today.
The second variety is the 90% Silver Proof. These are much more desirable because they contain actual bullion value and were minted in lower numbers (about 800,000 sets). Even in poor condition, the silver content ensures they are worth more than their face value. If you have a high-grade specimen, the Connecticut quarter market price can skyrocket, especially if it achieves a perfect grade from a service like PCGS or NGC.
| Feature | Clad Proof (S) | Silver Proof (S) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 5.67 grams | 6.25 grams |
| Edge Appearance | Brown/Copper Stripe | Solid Silver/White |
How Condition and Grading Affect Value
In the world of coin collecting, condition is everything. A “Proof” coin is already expected to be in excellent shape, but collectors look for “Cameo” or “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations. This refers to the contrast between the frosted design elements (like the Charter Oak) and the mirror-like background fields.
Most 1999-S quarters that come straight from a government-issued United States Mint set will grade at least a PR68 or PR69. However, the price jump from a PR69 to a perfect PR70 can be hundreds of dollars. Because the 1999 State Quarters were the first in the series, many people saved them, but very few have survived in flawless condition without any microscopic scratches or “milk spots.”
If you think you have a perfect specimen, using an app like CoinKnow can help you compare your coin’s luster to high-resolution photos of graded coins. This helps you decide if it is worth the fee to send your coin to a professional grading service.
Rare Errors to Watch For
While proof coins are struck with higher pressure and undergo more quality control than circulation coins, errors can still happen. Collectors are always on the hunt for “mule” errors or strikes through grease that might have occurred in the San Francisco Mint.
One rare thing to look for is the “S over S” mint mark or doubled die features on the reverse. On the Connecticut quarter, check the leaves of the Charter Oak tree particularly closely. If you see visual doubling on the branches or the lettering, you might have a coin worth significantly more than the standard proof price.
Many people who find these coins in “the wild” (general circulation) wonder how they got there. Usually, it happens when someone breaks open a mint set to spend the money. If you find a 1999-S in your change, it is likely “impaired,” meaning it has scratches and wear. Even so, if it’s the silver version, it’s a great find!
Current Market Prices for 1999-S Connecticut Quarters
The market for State Quarters fluctuates, but the 1999 issues remain popular because they represent the “First Year of Issue” for the 50 State Quarters Program. Prices for the 1999-S Silver Proof have remained relatively stable because of the intrinsic value of the silver.
As of late 2023 and early 2024, auction results show that perfect PR70 Deep Cameo Silver Connecticut Quarters can sell for as much as $1,200, though $500 to $800 is a more common range for recent sales. The Clad versions, even in PR70, usually top out around $30 to $50.
| Grade | 1999-S Clad Value | 1999-S Silver Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 | $1.00 | $12.00 |
| PR69 | $7.00 | $22.00 |
| PR70 | $45.00 | $750.00+ |
Tips for Selling Your Connecticut Quarter
If you decide to sell your 1999-S Connecticut Quarter, your best bet is to avoid pawn shops, as they rarely pay full collector value. Instead, consider listing the coin on specialized auction sites or visiting a local coin shop. If you have a large collection of State Quarters, putting them into an inventory tool like CoinKnow makes it much easier to show a dealer exactly what you have.
Remember that for the silver version, the price of silver (the “spot price”) will act as a floor for the value. If silver is up, your coin is worth more! For the clad version, without a perfect grade, the value is mostly sentimental or a small premium for the effort of finding it. Always keep your proof coins in protective capsules to prevent oils from your skin from damaging the delicate mirror finish.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 1999-S Connecticut Quarter is silver?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If it has a solid silvery-white edge, it is likely the 90% silver version. If you see a copper or brown stripe running through the middle of the edge, it is a standard copper-nickel clad coin. You can also weigh it; silver quarters weigh 6.25g, while clad quarters weigh 5.67g.
Q: Why is the “S” mint mark important?
A: The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints which produce coins for everyday use, the San Francisco Mint primarily produces proof coins for collectors. These have lower mintages and are usually struck with higher quality standards.
Q: Is a 1999-S Connecticut Quarter found in my pocket change worth much?
A: If it’s a clad version found in change, it’s likely “impaired” and worth only face value or slightly more (maybe $0.50) to a casual collector. If it’s a silver version found in change, it’s still worth at least its weight in silver, which is usually around $4 to $6 depending on the current silver market.
Q: What is a “Deep Cameo” proof?
A: A Deep Cameo (or Ultra Cameo) coin has a strong contrast between the frosted design and the reflective background. This is the most desirable finish for proof coins and is a major factor in determining the value of a 1999-S Connecticut Quarter.
