The 1999-S Delaware Silver Proof Quarter is worth anywhere from $5 to $15 in typical proof condition, with top-graded examples reaching $30 or more. If you’ve come across one of these shiny, mirror-like coins, you may be sitting on a small but genuine treasure worth knowing about.
If you’re not sure exactly what coin you have, a free coin identification app can help you confirm the mint mark, composition, and series before you dig into the value details. Tools like CoinHix make this process even easier — just snap a photo and get instant results right on your phone.
—
What Makes the 1999-S Delaware Silver Quarter Special
The 1999-S Delaware Silver Proof Quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint as part of the inaugural year of the 50 State Quarters Program. The “S” mint mark stands for San Francisco, and the silver version was sold directly to collectors in special proof sets — it was never meant for everyday circulation. That’s why these coins typically appear in near-perfect condition with sharp details and a deep, mirror-like finish.
What truly sets this coin apart from the standard clad version is its composition: 90% silver and 10% copper. This silver content gives it intrinsic metal value on top of its numismatic (collector) value. The coin’s reverse features Caesar Rodney on horseback, commemorating his famous midnight ride to Philadelphia to cast Delaware’s vote for independence. It’s a meaningful design that resonates with both history lovers and coin enthusiasts alike.
Because these were proof coins sold in limited sets, the mintage was controlled. Roughly 804,000 silver proof sets were sold that year, making the Delaware silver quarter more scarce than the billions of clad quarters produced for circulation.
—
1999-S Delaware Silver Quarter Value by Grade
Coin grading matters a great deal when figuring out what your coin is worth. Proof coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from 1 to 70, and most 1999-S Delaware Silver Quarters you’ll encounter fall between PR65 and PR70.
Here’s a general value breakdown:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 | Gem Proof, minor imperfections | $5 – $8 |
| PR67 | Superb Gem Proof | $8 – $15 |
| PR68 | Near-perfect surfaces | $15 – $22 |
| PR69 | Virtually perfect | $22 – $30 |
| PR70 | Perfect Proof — top grade | $30 – $50+ |
For real-time auction results and up-to-date pricing, you can check out the 1999 Delaware Quarter price data and recent sales history to see what collectors are actually paying right now.
—
Silver Value vs. Collector Value — Which Matters More?
Here’s something many people overlook: even a 1999-S Delaware Silver Quarter that isn’t in great shape still has melt value. With 90% silver content and a total weight of 6.25 grams, each coin contains approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of silver. At silver prices hovering around $28–$30 per ounce (as of recent market rates), the raw silver value alone puts a floor of roughly $5 on every one of these coins, regardless of grade.
That said, collector demand can push values much higher, especially for coins graded PR69 or PR70 by PCGS or NGC — the two most trusted third-party grading services in the hobby. Getting your coin professionally slabbed and graded can significantly increase its appeal and resale value on platforms like eBay or at coin shows.
If you want a broader picture of what 1999 quarters are worth across different versions — clad, silver, circulation — the complete 1999 quarter value guide covering all mint marks and varieties is a great resource to bookmark.
—
How to Find Out Exactly What Your Coin Is Worth
Identifying and valuing a coin used to require going to a local dealer or digging through price guides at the library. Today, you have much better options. CoinHix is a popular app among both beginner and experienced collectors that lets you look up coin values, track your collection, and monitor market trends in one place. It’s particularly useful when comparing grades side by side.
If your coin came in an original U.S. Mint proof set box, that’s a good sign it has been stored properly. Coins in original government packaging often retain their high grade and command better prices from buyers.
Before selling, always compare prices across multiple platforms — completed eBay listings, CoinHix market data, and dealer quotes — to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.
—
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my Delaware quarter is the silver version or the regular clad version?
A: Check for the “S” mint mark on the obverse (front) of the coin, just below the “In God We Trust” motto. If it has an “S” and appears to be a proof coin with a mirrored, shiny surface, it is very likely the silver proof version. You can also weigh it — the silver version weighs 6.25 grams, while the clad version weighs 5.67 grams.
Q: Is a 1999-S Delaware Silver Quarter worth getting professionally graded?
A: It depends on the condition. If your coin grades PR69 or PR70, professional grading through PCGS or NGC can increase its value and marketability significantly. For PR65–PR67 examples, the grading fee may not be worth it unless you’re building a high-end registry set.
Q: Can I find a 1999-S Delaware Silver Quarter in everyday change?
A: Almost certainly not. These coins were only sold in special silver proof sets directly through the U.S. Mint and were never released into general circulation. If you found a Delaware quarter in your change, it is almost certainly the standard clad version with the “P” or “D” mint mark, which is worth face value unless it’s in exceptional condition.
