Rare 1820 Quarter Errors (List & Pictures)
A second curve beside 0 and a raised path through the stars began at different stages of coin production. These 1820 quarter errors also include an incomplete blank-cutting mark, with estimated whole-coin values of $100–$10,000.
A lightly worn B-3 sold for $3,538 in January 2026. The price reflects the complete collectible quarter, so follow the matching feature before using it as a comparison.
1. 1820 Quarter An Earlier Curve beside the Small 0: Repunched Date Error
The Small 0 variety can preserve part of an earlier punch position beside its final digit. The repeated shape was in the die before it struck the coin.
Large, medium, and small forms of 0 occur in 1820. Digit size identifies the right comparison group, but the extra contour is the repunching feature.
How to Identify
Keep the complete date visible and compare the final digit with an identified Small 0. The photograph discussed by quarter specialist Steve Tompkins provides a relevant shape comparison.
The earlier outline should retain its form as the light moves. A scratch can continue beyond the digit, and a dent can push metal against it without repeating its curve.
What It’s Worth
$100–$8,000 is the estimate for worn through attractive unworn Small 0 examples. A PCGS AU55 B-4 sold for $3,360 at Heritage on October 5, 2025.
That is a whole-coin Small 0 comparison with light wear. Do not add the same amount again as a repunching premium.
2. 1820 Quarter A Ridge through Left Stars and Date: Die Crack Error
A known B-3 crack joins stars on Liberty’s left and passes through 1 and 8. Silver entered the opening in the die and left a raised line on later coins.
Earlier coins from the same die can lack the ridge because the crack had not developed yet. The coin itself did not necessarily split.
How to Identify
Trace the left stars down toward the first two digits, using low side lighting to test the line’s height. A scratch forms a channel rather than a continuous ridge.
Confirm the reverse denomination layout: low 25 with a higher C farther away. That layout and the front route support the complete B-3 match.
What It’s Worth
$150–$10,000 covers well-worn through strong unworn examples. A PCGS AU58 B-3 brought $3,538 on January 17, 2026.
The crack is one identifying feature of that variety. Cleaning, damage, or heavier wear prevents a direct comparison with the lightly worn auction coin.
3. 1820 Quarter A Partial Curved Cut with Metal Still Present: Incomplete Clip Error
A blanking punch can start a cut without passing all the way through the metal. Later cutting and striking may leave part of that old boundary visible in the finished quarter.
Toronto Coin Shop offered an 1820 under the incomplete-clip name. Unlike a complete clip, this type can retain metal on both sides of its curved line.
How to Identify
Follow the line’s curve and depth, then check the other face and edge for related evidence. The struck design must fit a cut that existed before striking.
Bright cut walls, rough displaced edges, or a scratch crossing finished detail can indicate later damage. Neither old toning nor a curved shape proves Mint origin.
What It’s Worth
$200–$1,500 is the estimate for confirmed examples, depending on wear and how clearly the original cut can be recognized. The Toronto Coin Shop record is a dealer offering rather than an auction result.
A subtle line on a worn coin needs a lower comparison than a clear authenticated feature. Later sawing or scratching adds no Mint-error premium.
Conclusion
The Small 0 needs a matching earlier contour, B-3 needs the correct raised route and reverse layout, and an incomplete clip needs evidence of a pre-strike cut. One curved or bright line cannot establish all three.
Use the auction grades and full variety when comparing prices. The error feature remains part of one complete quarter whose surfaces and preservation matter throughout.
