The 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter, featuring the iconic Charter Oak, holds a significant place in both coin collectors’ hearts and American history. As part of the 50 State Quarters Program, this quarter celebrates Connecticut’s historical legacy, particularly the famous story of the Charter Oak.
If you’re a coin enthusiast or simply curious about what makes this quarter special, here’s everything you need to know about its value, design, and the legacy of the Charter Oak.
The 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter: A Historical Overview
Released on October 12, 1999, the Connecticut State Quarter was the fifth coin in the 50 State Quarters Program, marking Connecticut’s statehood, which occurred on January 9, 1788. This program aimed to commemorate each U.S. state with a unique design highlighting its history or symbols of significance.
The Charter Oak, which appears prominently on the reverse of the coin, was chosen to represent Connecticut’s resilient spirit and its historical significance during a pivotal moment in colonial history.
During the late 17th century, Connecticut refused to surrender its charter to British control. Legend has it that the state’s charter was hidden within the branches of the Charter Oak to protect it from British authorities in 1687, ensuring Connecticut’s autonomy under colonial rule.
Design Elements of the 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter
The design of the Connecticut State Quarter is packed with symbolism:
- Obverse (Front): Like other quarters in the series, the obverse features the familiar profile of George Washington, designed by John Flanagan and William Cousins.
- Reverse (Back): The reverse depicts a highly detailed image of the Charter Oak, its sprawling branches symbolic of Connecticut’s defense of freedom and independence. The text “CONNECTICUT 1788,” the year the state was admitted to the Union, is inscribed above the tree. The bottom of the coin features the inscriptions “1999” and the Latin motto “E Pluribus Unum” (Out of many, one), alongside the name of the tree, “THE CHARTER OAK.”
Designed by T. James Farrell, the quarter’s reverse embodies a connection to Connecticut’s past and its role in shaping the state’s future.
Coin Specifications and Mintage
Here are some key specifications of the 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1999 |
| Mintmark | P (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 688,744,000 |
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm |
| Thickness | 1.75 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | John Flanagan, T. James Farrell |
The Philadelphia mint produced an astounding 688,744,000 Connecticut quarters, while the Denver mint produced 657,880,000, making it one of the highest mintage figures of the 1999 state quarters.
What to Look For: Errors and Valuable Versions
Most 1999-P Connecticut State Quarters are common, but certain errors or special versions can fetch a higher price. Here’s what to look out for:
- Mint Condition: Uncirculated coins in Mint State (MS) conditions can fetch higher prices, especially grades MS67 and above. Coins in MS68 condition have been known to sell for as much as $4,362.
- Proof and Silver Versions: While the standard quarters are made of a copper-nickel alloy, 1999-S Silver Proof Quarters were produced with 90% silver content. These are significantly more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts.
- Errors: Although no major minting errors are commonly associated with the 1999-P Connecticut quarter, error coins such as off-center strikes or double-die errors may exist and hold greater value for collectors.
Why the Charter Oak Matters
The Charter Oak stands as a powerful symbol of Connecticut’s resistance to British rule. In 1687, when Sir Edmund Andros, representing King James II, demanded Connecticut surrender its colonial charter, the document mysteriously vanished during negotiations.
Legend holds that Captain Joseph Wadsworth concealed it in the hollow of the Charter Oak, where it remained safe until the colony’s future was more secure.
Although the tree fell during a storm in 1856, its legacy lives on, commemorated by this state quarter and other historical tributes.
Conclusion
The 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter is more than just another coin in circulation—it’s a tribute to a pivotal moment in American history, symbolized by the legendary Charter Oak.
Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just beginning, this quarter offers both historical and monetary value.
Keep an eye out for rare error versions or proof sets, as they can be worth significantly more than their face value. Happy collecting!
FAQs
1. What makes the 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter valuable?
The 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter is valuable when found in uncirculated mint condition, as well as in proof or silver proof versions. Error coins and those graded MS67 or higher can also command higher prices.
2. How much is the 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter worth?
Most 1999-P Connecticut State Quarters are worth their face value of 25 cents. However, in uncirculated mint condition, they can range from $1 to over $4,000, depending on their grade and condition.
3. What is the significance of the Charter Oak?
The Charter Oak represents Connecticut’s resistance to British control in 1687 when the state’s charter was hidden in the tree to prevent its seizure by British authorities. It symbolizes independence and freedom.
4. How can I tell if my Connecticut State Quarter is valuable?
Check for mint condition, errors, or proof versions. If your quarter has no visible wear, minimal scratches, or has a unique error like an off-center strike, it may be worth more than face value.
5. Where can I sell my 1999-P Connecticut State Quarter?
You can sell your valuable Connecticut quarters through coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, or at coin auctions. Ensure to have them graded by a professional to determine their true value.
References
- GBF News. “1999-P Connecticut State Quarter: The Tale of the Charter Oak and Its Legacy.”
- Mintage World. “Charter Oak on 1999 Connecticut 50 State Quarter.”
- PCGS. “1999-P Connecticut State Quarter Information.”
- State Quarter Guide. “1999 Connecticut State Quarter.”