The 1999-S New Jersey State Quarter is worth anywhere from $2 in lightly circulated condition to over $15 or more for proof examples in pristine condition — and certified high-grade specimens can fetch even higher prices at auction. If you found one in a coin jar or inherited a collection, you’re in the right place to find out exactly what it’s worth.
If you’re not sure whether what you’re holding is the proof “S” mint mark version or a regular circulated quarter, a free coin identification app can help you quickly confirm the details before you dig deeper into its value.
What Makes the 1999-S New Jersey Quarter Special
The 1999-S New Jersey State Quarter was struck at the San Francisco Mint, and that single letter — the “S” mint mark — makes all the difference. Unlike the Philadelphia and Denver Mint versions that went into everyday circulation, the San Francisco Mint produced this coin exclusively as a proof coin intended for collectors. These proof quarters were sold directly to hobbyists in official U.S. Mint proof sets, which means they were never meant to jingle around in your pocket.
The New Jersey design itself celebrates the state’s role in the Revolutionary War, featuring George Washington crossing the Delaware River on December 26, 1776 — a pivotal moment in American history. The reverse reads “Crossroads of the Revolution,” honoring New Jersey’s significance during the founding of the nation. This historical richness, combined with the San Francisco Mint’s notoriously sharp and mirror-like proof strikes, makes these coins appealing to collectors of American history and coin enthusiasts alike.
With a total proof mintage of roughly 3.7 million pieces, the 1999-S New Jersey Quarter is not considered rare, but high-quality examples graded PR-70 by major grading services like PCGS or NGC can still command premiums that surprise everyday people who discover them.
Understanding the Different Grades and Their Values
Coin grading can sound intimidating, but the basics are simple: the better the condition, the more it’s worth. Proof coins like the 1999-S are graded on a scale from PR-60 to PR-70, with PR-70 meaning absolutely perfect — no contact marks, no haze, flawless surfaces.
Here’s a general value guide based on grade:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-60 to PR-64 | Proof with noticeable marks or haze | $2 – $5 |
| PR-65 | Gem proof, minor imperfections | $5 – $8 |
| PR-67 | Superb gem, nearly flawless | $8 – $15 |
| PR-69 | Near perfect | $15 – $25 |
| PR-70 DCAM | Perfect deep cameo proof | $50 – $100+ |
For a broader look at 1999 quarter values across different mint marks and grades, this detailed 1999 quarter value breakdown covers circulated and proof examples side by side, which is especially helpful if you have multiple coins from that year.
The DCAM Designation and Why It Matters
You may notice the letters “DCAM” attached to top-graded proof coins. DCAM stands for Deep Cameo, and it refers to the sharp, frosted design on the coin’s raised surfaces contrasting against a mirror-like background field. It’s what makes a perfect proof quarter look almost like a piece of art under light.
Not every 1999-S New Jersey Quarter comes with deep cameo designation. Earlier strikes in a proof die run tend to have more pronounced cameo contrast, while later strikes may lose some of that frostiness. Collectors actively seek out DCAM examples, which is why a PR-70 DCAM can sell for significantly more than a plain PR-70.
If you want to track live auction prices and see real-time sales data for proof State Quarters, CoinHix makes it easy with its up-to-date price tracking and historical auction records — a solid resource for anyone trying to figure out what buyers are actually paying today.
How to Find Out If Your 1999-S Quarter Is Worth More
Here’s the honest truth: most 1999-S New Jersey Quarters you encounter will be worth somewhere between $2 and $10 unless they’re professionally graded by PCGS or NGC. The coins most often found still in their original proof sets tend to grade around PR-65 to PR-67 — nice coins, but common enough that the value stays modest.
However, if your coin looks exceptional — blazing cameo contrast, no hairlines, sharp details — it’s worth having it professionally graded. A PR-70 DCAM certification can turn a $5 coin into a $75 or even $100 coin overnight.
You can also compare recent sales data for similar coins. For example, current market pricing for 1999 State Quarters in mint state and proof grades gives you a solid benchmark, even if you’re just doing preliminary research before deciding whether to sell.
CoinHix is particularly useful here — you can look up your specific coin, filter by grade and designation, and see what comparable examples have actually sold for at major auction houses. No guessing required.
Tips for Selling or Storing Your 1999-S New Jersey Quarter
If you’ve decided your coin is worth holding onto, store it properly. Proof coins are sensitive to fingerprints, humidity, and even air exposure. Keep it in its original Mint packaging if possible, or place it in an airtight coin flip or slab holder.
If you’re thinking about selling, your best options include:
– eBay — great for reaching a wide audience; search completed listings to see real prices
– Coin shows and local dealers — you’ll get offers fast, though often below market
– Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers — ideal for high-grade certified coins where competition drives up prices
For everyday folks who just found a coin and want a quick answer, apps like CoinHix and the free identification tools mentioned earlier can save you a lot of time and help you avoid underselling something that might actually be worth a tidy little sum.
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FAQ
Q: How do I know if my quarter is the 1999-S proof version or just a regular New Jersey quarter?
A: Look for a small “S” mint mark on the obverse (heads side) of the coin, just below Washington’s neck on the right. If you see “P” or “D,” those are Philadelphia or Denver Mint coins intended for circulation and are generally worth face value unless in exceptional condition.
Q: Is the 1999-S New Jersey State Quarter rare?
A: Not particularly. The San Francisco Mint produced approximately 3.7 million proof examples in 1999. It’s widely available, which keeps common-grade values modest. That said, perfect PR-70 DCAM examples are much harder to find and carry real collector premiums.
Q: Should I clean my 1999-S New Jersey Quarter before getting it graded or sold?
A: Absolutely not. Cleaning a coin — even gently — damages the surface and destroys its numismatic value. Grading services like PCGS and NGC will note cleaning on their holders, which significantly reduces the coin’s appeal and market price. Always leave coins exactly as you found them.
