Delaware State Quarter (50 State Quarters Series)

United States · 1999

A 1999 Delaware state quarter featuring Caesar Rodney on horseback, the first coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program.

Country: United States
Year: 1999
Denomination: 0.25 USD / Quarter Dollar
Metal: Cupro-Nickel Clad Copper (75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 21, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A 1999 Delaware state quarter featuring Caesar Rodney on horseback, the first coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program.

Historical significance

This was the inaugural issue of the 10-year 50 State Quarters Program. It commemorates Delaware becoming the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The design depicts Caesar Rodney's historic 1776 night ride to Philadelphia to cast a tie-breaking vote for independence.

Obverse (front)

Portrays George Washington in a slightly smaller profile than previous quarters to accommodate state quarter inscriptions. Features 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'. Designer: William Cousins (after John Flanagan).

Reverse (back)

Features Caesar Rodney on a galloping horse. Inscriptions include 'DELAWARE', '1787', 'THE FIRST STATE', 'CAESAR RODNEY', '1999', and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. Designer: William Cousins.

Estimated value

$0.25 circulated, $1.00-$5.00 in high-grade Mint State, up to $20+ for MS-67 specimens.

What drives this coin's value

Value is primarily driven by condition (grade) and the presence of errors. Key factor is the 'Spitting Horse' die crack variety. High-grade (MS-67+) specimens carry premiums.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated. Visible surface bag marks and light wear on the higher points of Caesar Rodney and Washington's hair, but luster remains.

Mintage & rarity

Common; 373,400,000 minted at Philadelphia. Total 1999-P mintage is high, making it very common unless in pristine condition.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Weight should be exactly 5.67g. Look for sharp details and a clear P mint mark. Counterfeits of this specific common issue are rare, but 'plated' quarters sold at premiums are technically altered.