Imagine walking out of the grocery store with more than just your shopping bags—how about a rare coin worth nearly $29,500? That’s exactly what happened when a sharp-eyed shopper discovered a 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter hidden in their change.
This accidental find turned into a life-changing moment and has sparked excitement among coin enthusiasts and casual collectors alike.
What Is the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter?
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is part of the 50 State Quarters series. It features a cow, a wheel of cheese, and an ear of corn—symbols of the state’s strong agricultural heritage.
Minted in Denver, this quarter looked like any other until a small design variation led to a numismatic phenomenon.
What Makes This Coin Special?
A small but significant minting error resulted in two rare variants of the Wisconsin quarter, known as:
- Extra Leaf High
- Extra Leaf Low
These errors involve an additional leaf appearing on the corn stalk. It’s believed the error happened during the die polishing or modification process. What makes these variants incredibly valuable is their scarcity and the attention they’ve drawn in the collector’s market.
Types and Values of the Extra Leaf Quarters
There are two distinct error types collectors hunt for:
1. Extra Leaf High
- The added leaf sticks out above the main corn leaf.
- More difficult to identify without magnification.
- Typically garners higher values due to rarity in mint condition.
2. Extra Leaf Low
- The extra leaf appears lower on the corn stalk.
- Slightly more common than the high version but still very valuable.
Here’s a value breakdown based on market trends and condition:
| Quarter Type | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value | Top Sale Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Leaf High | $50 – $130 | Up to $1,200 | Over $2,500 |
| Extra Leaf Low | $30 – $100 | Up to $1,200 | Over $6,000 |
| Exceptional Graded Example | — | — | Up to $29,500 |
The $29,500 Grocery Store Discovery
A shopper unknowingly received a 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf High Quarter in their change while paying at a local grocery store. Upon closer inspection and later grading, the coin was revealed to be a near-perfect example of the rare variety.
Because of its high grade and error type, the coin fetched an eye-watering $29,500 on the collector’s market. This underscores how valuable these quarters can become when well-preserved.
How to Check If You Have One
If you’re curious about your spare change, here’s how to identify a 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter:
Step 1: Look for the Corn
Flip the coin over to view the corn stalk on the reverse side.
Step 2: Examine Closely
Use a magnifying glass to look for a small additional leaf:
- High Leaf: Just above the main left-side leaf.
- Low Leaf: Near the bottom of the stalk.
Step 3: Check the Mint Mark
Only 2004-D (Denver-minted) quarters have been found with the error.
Why These Coins Matter
These quarters are a perfect example of how minting mistakes can turn everyday change into a collector’s dream. Unlike many rare coins hidden in old collections or safes, these errors were distributed widely and can still occasionally be found in circulation today.
Their appeal lies in:
- Scarcity: Limited numbers were minted with the error.
- Mystery: The exact cause of the error remains unclear.
- Value: The highest-graded coins are fetching five-figure prices.
The discovery of a 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter in grocery store change—now valued at $29,500—proves that valuable coins aren’t always locked away in museums or safe deposit boxes. Some are still out there in pockets, drawers, and spare change jars.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone curious about coins, this story is your cue to check your change—you never know what small fortune might be hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
Are both Extra Leaf High and Low valuable?
Yes, both versions are valuable, especially in mint condition, with some selling for thousands of dollars.
How can I sell a 2004 Extra Leaf Quarter?
Contact a certified coin dealer or have the coin professionally graded before listing it at auction or private sale.
Can these quarters still be found in circulation?
Rarely, but yes—some examples continue to turn up in everyday transactions, making them a worthwhile find.