Shawnee Quarter : Most people use quarters without a second thought, but among the many in circulation, a few hold extraordinary value due to rare minting errors. One such case is the 2016 Shawnee National Forest quarter, part of the U.S. Mint’s America the Beautiful series. While this coin was widely produced and commonly spent, a rare version featuring a “reverse cud” error has stunned collectors. One example even sold for $3,800, turning a simple 25-cent coin into a four-figure treasure.
Understanding the Shawnee National Forest Design
The 2016 Shawnee quarter was released to honor the natural beauty of Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest. The reverse side features a unique design that includes Camel Rock and the surrounding woodland scenery. This image is striking on its own, but it becomes even more significant when a minting error—such as a reverse cud—interrupts the design, making the coin not only beautiful but also extremely rare.
What Is a Reverse Cud and Why It Matters
A reverse cud is a type of die break error that occurs during the minting process when a portion of the die (the tool that strikes the coin) breaks off. As a result, a raised blob of metal appears on the coin, usually along the rim. On the 2016 Shawnee quarter, this cud appears on the reverse side and can affect part of the natural design. Since the cud is a direct result of a broken die, each one is unique, adding rarity and value to any coin that bears it.
Why This Mint Error Became So Valuable
Error coins have long fascinated collectors because they capture a moment when the minting process went unexpectedly wrong. In the case of the 2016 Shawnee quarter, the reverse cud error is both visually obvious and highly unusual on a modern coin. When a collector-grade specimen with this flaw surfaced and sold for $3,800, it raised awareness about how much demand exists for these accidental rarities. Its value lies in the combination of a modern issue, a recognizable design, and a prominent, rare error.
How to Identify the Reverse Cud on Your Coins
If you’re curious whether you might have one of these rare quarters, the key is in the details. Examine the reverse side of any 2016 Shawnee quarter you find. A cud will appear as a thick, raised lump of metal near the coin’s edge, often distorting nearby elements of the design. Unlike damage or wear, a cud is part of the coin’s original strike, meaning it’s built into the metal and cannot be cleaned or removed. That’s what makes it authentic—and valuable.
The Growing Interest in Error Coins
The discovery of the Shawnee cud quarter has energized both seasoned collectors and beginners. Error coins like this are rare but still attainable, especially in recent coinage where people are less likely to examine their change closely. Collectors now hunt more actively for similar errors in coin rolls, circulation, and pocket change, knowing that a single find can result in a significant payday.
A Reminder That Value Can Be Found Anywhere
The story of the 2016 Shawnee quarter with a reverse cud is a powerful reminder that hidden treasures can appear in the most ordinary places. A coin worth just twenty-five cents turned into thousands of dollars simply because of a small, unexpected flaw. It’s a perfect example of why attention to detail, curiosity, and a bit of luck can turn a casual glance into a remarkable discovery.
