The 1999-S Delaware State Quarter is worth anywhere from $3 in typical proof condition to over $100 for top-tier cameo specimens graded PR70. If you’ve come across one of these shiny, mirror-like coins in an old collection or estate sale, you might be sitting on more than pocket change — and this guide will help you figure out exactly what it’s worth.
What Makes the 1999-S Delaware Quarter Special
The 1999-S Delaware State Quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint specifically for collectors. The “S” mintmark tells you right away that this coin was never intended for everyday circulation — it was produced as a proof coin, meaning it was carefully struck multiple times on specially prepared planchets to create a sharp, mirror-like finish.
Delaware holds the honor of being the first state featured in the 50 State Quarters Program, launched in 1999. That historical significance alone makes this coin a popular piece among both new and seasoned collectors.
Unlike the Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) versions that ended up in your change, the San Francisco proof is all about quality and collector appeal. If you’re trying to identify whether the coin in your hand is truly an “S” mint proof, a free coin identifier app can help you confirm the details quickly without needing a magnifying glass or a trip to a coin shop.
How Much Is the 1999-S Delaware Quarter Worth Today
The value of your 1999-S Delaware State Quarter depends heavily on its grade and whether it carries a cameo or deep cameo designation. Standard proof coins graded PR65 typically sell for around $3–$6, while deep cameo (DCAM) versions with frosted designs against mirror fields can climb significantly higher.
Here’s a quick breakdown of current market values:
| Grade | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 | Standard Proof | $3 – $6 |
| PR67 | Cameo (CAM) | $8 – $15 |
| PR68 | Deep Cameo (DCAM) | $15 – $35 |
| PR69 | Deep Cameo (DCAM) | $20 – $50 |
| PR70 | Deep Cameo (DCAM) | $75 – $150+ |
For the most current auction results and pricing across different grade levels, you can check out detailed price data for the 1999 Delaware State Quarter by grade to see how similar coins have been selling recently.
Key Details About the 1999-S Delaware Proof Quarter
The coin features Caesar Rodney’s famous horseback ride on the reverse — a nod to Delaware’s role in the American Revolution. The design was chosen through a state-level selection process and has become iconic among state quarter collectors.
On the obverse, you’ll find the classic George Washington portrait along with the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1999.” The reverse includes “DELAWARE,” “THE FIRST STATE,” and “1787” — the year Delaware ratified the Constitution.
The San Francisco Mint struck approximately 3.7 million proof sets in 1999, which means these coins aren’t exactly rare. However, high-grade examples — especially PR69 and PR70 deep cameo specimens — remain genuinely scarce and command real premiums at auction.
CoinKnow is one of the best tools available for identifying proof coins like this one and getting an instant estimate of what they might be worth based on current market data.
Should You Get It Graded
If your 1999-S Delaware Quarter looks flawless — sharp details, no hairlines, deep mirror fields, and frosty devices — it might be worth submitting to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. A coin graded PR70 DCAM by a top service is a completely different collectible than a raw, ungraded proof.
That said, most proof coins from standard sets won’t hit the top grades. If yours came from an original U.S. Mint proof set and has been stored properly in its original packaging, it could still grade out at PR68 or PR69, which is respectable and worth a modest premium.
For a broader look at how much 1999 quarter values vary across mint marks and conditions, it’s worth comparing all three versions — P, D, and S — to understand where your coin sits in the market.
CoinKnow makes it easy to snap a photo of your coin and get a quick grade estimate before deciding whether professional grading is worth the cost.
Tips for Selling Your 1999-S Delaware Quarter
If you decide to sell, your best options are eBay, coin shows, or specialized coin dealers. For raw (ungraded) proof quarters, expect to get face value to a few dollars unless the coin is in exceptional shape. For professionally graded high-end examples, online auctions tend to bring the strongest prices.
Always store your proof coins in protective holders and avoid touching the surfaces directly — fingerprints can lower the grade and the value.
Using CoinKnow to document your coin’s details and condition before selling gives you a better starting point for pricing negotiations and helps buyers feel confident in what they’re purchasing.
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FAQ
Q: How do I know if my Delaware quarter is the 1999-S proof version?
A: Look for a small “S” mintmark on the obverse, just below “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Proof coins also have a distinctly shiny, mirror-like surface that regular circulation quarters don’t have.
Q: Is the 1999-S Delaware State Quarter rare?
A: Not especially — the San Francisco Mint produced millions of proof sets in 1999. However, perfect PR70 deep cameo examples are genuinely scarce and can sell for $100 or more. Most coins from standard proof sets fall in the PR65–PR68 range.
Q: Can I sell my 1999-S Delaware Quarter for more than face value?
A: Yes, in almost all cases. Even average proof quarters sell for $3–$6, and high-grade deep cameo examples can bring $50–$150 or more depending on the grade and buyer demand.
