A Hidden Treasure in Your Change
A regular quarter could be worth thousands, and one such gem is the 2016 Shawnee National Forest Quarter with a reverse cud error. Part of the America the Beautiful series, this coin recently grabbed attention when one sold for $3,800 at auction. Found in everyday change in Illinois, this rare quarter has collectors buzzing. Anyone with spare change can check for this error, which could turn pocket coins into a small fortune. Here’s how to spot this valuable piece.
What Is a Reverse Cud Error
A reverse cud is a minting mistake where a piece of the die breaks, leaving a raised blob or bump on the coin’s surface. On the 2016 Shawnee Quarter, this error often appears on the back (reverse) side near the rim, around the “Shawnee” text or the forest design. The coin, minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, shows Camel Rock and a red-tailed hawk. The cud makes the coin stand out, as it’s a clear, visible flaw that collectors prize for its rarity.
| Coin Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 2016 |
| Mint Marks | P, D, or S |
| Error Type | Reverse Cud |
| Estimated Value | Up to $3,800 |
Steps to Find the Error
Spotting a reverse cud is simple with a little attention. Start by flipping the quarter to its reverse side, where the Shawnee National Forest design is. Look for raised, uneven areas or blobs, especially near the edges or text. A magnifying glass or your phone’s camera zoom can help spot small details. Compare your coin to a regular 2016 Shawnee Quarter if you have one; the cud will look like an extra lump of metal. Check the rim carefully, as cuds often form there due to die damage during minting.
Why Collectors Want It
The 2016 Shawnee Quarter with a reverse cud is rare because only a few coins have this error. Over 150 million Shawnee Quarters were minted, but those with cuds are a tiny fraction, making them highly valuable. Collectors love errors that are easy to see, and a cud is one of the most noticeable. A coin in great condition, like Mint State 65, can fetch higher prices at auction. If you find one, consider sending it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and boost its value.
| Auction History | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin | 2016 Shawnee Quarter, Reverse Cud |
| Sale Year | 2024 |
| Sale Price | $3,800 |
| Auction Source | Heritage Auctions |
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a 2016 Shawnee Quarter with a reverse cud, don’t spend it. Take it to a local coin dealer or send it to a professional grading service for verification. A certified coin can sell for much more, especially if it’s in good shape. The Illinois finder sold theirs for thousands, and similar coins are still out there. Keep your coin safe, avoid cleaning it, and research its value online or with experts before selling.
Keep Checking Your Change
This rare quarter shows that treasures can hide in plain sight. With millions of coins in circulation, a 2016 Shawnee Quarter with a reverse cud could be in your wallet right now. Take a moment to inspect your quarters, especially those from 2016. A quick look could uncover a coin worth thousands, turning everyday change into a life-changing discovery. So, next time you get a quarter, check the reverse you might be holding a collector’s prize.