The standard 2003 Illinois state quarters are made of a clad composition that contains copper and nickel. Clad proof quarters and silver proof quarters were also minted and they sell for more money. Keep reading to learn more about these coins.
Design
On the reverse side of the coin there are several different images that include a young Abraham Lincoln, the Chicago skyline, a farm, and an outline of the state.
Abraham Lincoln is the most prominent image displayed and he lived most of his adult life in Illinois. He was a member of the Illinois Legislature and then he later represented Illinois in Congress. The Lincoln Tomb and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum are located in Springfield, Illinois.
The year 1818 is inscribed on the coin because this was the year that Illinois officially joined the union.
Coin Information
The US minted different series of the Illinois quarter. There is the 2003 P quarter, 2003 D quarter, 2003 S proof quarter and 2003 S silver proof quarter.
Proof coins are essentially coins that have more detail. They are minted on special planchets and it takes longer to produce them. They are specifically made for collectors so you won't find any in your spare change.
Note: The mint mark can be found on the obverse side of each coin under the "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 P | Philadelphia | 225,800,000 |
| 2003 D | Denver | 237,400,000 |
| 2003 S Proof | San Francisco | 3,408,516 |
| 2003 S Silver Proof | San Francisco | 1,125,755 |
Value
The value will depend on the series and the coin's condition. Below we will examine the value for each series.
Clad Quarters
The standard 2003 Illinois clad quarters in circulated condition are only worth their face value of $0.25. These coins only sell for a premium in uncirculated condition.
Both the 2003 P Illinois quarter and 2003 D Illinois quarter are each worth around $1.50 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $2.
The 2003 S proof Illinois quarter is worth around $5 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $15 in PR 69DC condition.
Silver Proof Quarter
This coin is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $5.18. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $28.64 per ounce.
The 2003 S silver proof Illinois quarter is worth around $11 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $20 in PR 69DC condition.
Grading System
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
MS 65 gem uncirculated- There is strong luster and eye appeal. A few light contact marks may be present but they are barely noticeable.
PR 66DC proof- There are minimal marks and hairlines.
PR 69DC proof- Only the slightest imperfections are present.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
2003 Alabama Quarter
2003 Arkansas Quarter
2003 Maine Quarter
2003 Missouri Quarter