2005 Kansas In God We Rust Quarter – If you’ve been ignoring your spare change lately, now might be the time to dig through that old coin jar. A rare 2005 Kansas State Quarter featuring the now-famous “In God We Rust” mint error is back in the spotlight — and it’s selling for up to $5,000 online. This coin, once considered just another pocket filler, has become a sensation among collectors due to a unique and noticeable mistake made during its minting. The phrase on the coin, intended to read “In God We Trust,” is partially obscured on some specimens, leaving behind a haunting variation: “In God We Rust.” This error, caused by a grease-filled die, has turned an otherwise common coin into a collector’s dream.
What Is the “In God We Rust” Quarter?
The “In God We Rust” coin is a 2005 Kansas State Quarter issued by the U.S. Mint as part of the 50 State Quarters Program. However, some of these coins were struck with a major minting error.
Key Details About the Coin:
- Official Name: 2005 Kansas State Quarter
- Error: Missing “T” in “Trust” — reads “In God We Rust”
- Cause of Error: Grease-filled die during minting
- Mint Location: Mostly from Philadelphia Mint (marked with a “P”)
- Estimated Value: $100 to $5,000 depending on condition
This error wasn’t intentional but happened during production, making these flawed coins incredibly valuable due to their rarity and popularity among collectors.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
You may wonder why a single missing letter makes a coin worth thousands of dollars. The answer lies in the world of coin collecting — where rarity, condition, and demand play major roles in determining value.
Factors Boosting the Value:
- Mint Error: Unique grease-filled die leading to a missing letter
- Limited Quantity: Not all Kansas quarters have this defect
- Collector Demand: Increased interest in error coins
- Public Attention: Viral posts and auctions have driven up prices
- Condition: Uncirculated or graded versions fetch higher values
Some quarters in pristine, uncirculated condition have been sold on eBay or other auction platforms for over $3,000 to $5,000, especially when professionally graded by companies like PCGS or NGC.
How to Identify the “In God We Rust” Quarter
If you’re rummaging through your change hoping to find one, here’s what to look for:
Step-by-Step Identification Guide:
- Check the Reverse Side – Look for a buffalo and sunflower design (standard Kansas quarter).
- Inspect the Phrase “In God We Trust” – Focus on the word “Trust.”
- Look for the Missing ‘T’ – If the ‘T’ is faint, partially missing, or completely gone, you may have the rare error.
- Mint Mark – Most known errors come from coins with a “P” mint mark.
- Use a Magnifying Glass – For more accurate spotting of subtle differences.
If your coin clearly shows “In God We Rust” instead of “Trust,” hold on to it — you may be sitting on a small fortune!
Recent Auction Prices for “In God We Rust” Quarters
Below is a table showing recent sales of these error coins based on their condition and grading.
| Grade/Condition | Description | Recent Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Uncirculated (MS67) | Graded by PCGS, near-perfect condition | $4,200 |
| AU (Almost Uncirculated) | Light circulation, clear error | $1,200 |
| XF (Extremely Fine) | Slight wear, visible error | $650 |
| Circulated | Visible error, normal wear | $100 – $300 |
| Damaged or Dirty | Hard to detect error | Under $50 |
Collectors are especially eager to buy graded coins in slabs, with documentation proving authenticity.
How to Sell or Authenticate Your Coin
Found a suspicious Kansas quarter? Here’s what to do next:
Selling Tips:
- Get It Graded: Submit your coin to grading services like PCGS or NGC for professional evaluation.
- Use Reputable Platforms: Sell on eBay, Heritage Auctions, or GreatCollections to attract serious buyers.
- Include Clear Photos: Show both sides of the coin, and zoom in on the error.
- Mention Mint Mark & Condition: These details affect value.
Avoid local coin shops unless you’re just looking for a quick cash-out — online marketplaces yield much higher prices.
Other Similar Error Coins Worth Checking
The “In God We Rust” quarter isn’t the only one causing buzz in the collector market. Here are a few more:
| Coin | Error Type | Value Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 Wisconsin Quarter | Extra Leaf (Low/High) | $500 – $6,000 |
| 1999 Delaware Quarter | Spitting Horse Error | $50 – $250 |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Dime | Missing Mint Mark | $300 – $1,000 |
| 1955 Lincoln Cent | Doubled Die Obverse | $1,200 – $15,000 |
Each of these coins offers unique collector appeal, and values can vary drastically based on condition and rarity.
The 2005 Kansas “In God We Rust” quarter is a fascinating example of how a small minting error can turn an ordinary coin into a high-value collector’s item. As more people become aware of this quirky mistake, the demand — and price — continues to rise. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these rare coins, consider having it graded and listed for auction. What was once pocket change could become your next big payday.
FAQs
Q1. What causes the “In God We Rust” error?
A grease-filled die blocked part of the design during minting, causing the letter “T” in “Trust” to disappear.
Q2. How much is the coin worth today?
Depending on condition, it ranges from $100 to $5,000 or more.
Q3. Where can I sell this coin?
Trusted platforms include eBay, Heritage Auctions, and GreatCollections.
Q4. Is every 2005 Kansas quarter valuable?
No, only the ones with the “In God We Rust” error hold high value.
Q5. How can I increase its value?
Get the coin graded and certified by PCGS or NGC for best resale potential.
