The 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter is worth anywhere from $1 to $5 in typical circulated condition, but proof versions can fetch $10 to $25 or more depending on their grade and finish. If you’ve got one sitting in a coin jar or found it in pocket change, it’s worth taking a closer look before you spend it.
What Is the 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter?
The 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter is part of the U.S. Mint’s District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program, which ran briefly in 2009. The “S” mint mark tells you it was struck at the San Francisco Mint — and that’s a big deal for collectors.
Unlike the regular “P” and “D” quarters made for everyday circulation, San Francisco quarters were produced specifically as collector coins. That means they were made with extra care, struck twice for sharper detail, and released in limited numbers.
The reverse of this coin features a latte stone, a traditional Chamorro symbol, along with a local bird and a canoe on the ocean. It’s a beautiful, culturally rich design that makes this coin stand out from more common state quarters.
If you’re new to coins and want an easy way to identify what you have, try using a free coin identifier app to scan your coin and get an instant read on its variety and condition.
Northern Mariana Islands Quarter Value by Type and Grade
Not all 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands quarters are the same. The San Francisco Mint produced two main types: the Clad Proof and the Silver Proof. Both are collector coins, but the silver version is more valuable because it contains 90% silver content.
Here’s a quick look at typical values:
| Coin Type | Finish | Typical Value | High-Grade Value (PR70) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009-S Clad Proof | Deep Cameo | $3 – $8 | $15 – $25 |
| 2009-S Silver Proof | Deep Cameo | $8 – $18 | $30 – $50+ |
| 2009-P / D (Circulation) | Business Strike | $0.25 – $1 | $5 – $15 (MS67+) |
For a more detailed breakdown of current market prices, check out this updated guide on 2009 quarter values by mint mark and grade — it covers all six territory quarters released that year.
How Condition Affects What Your Quarter Is Worth
Condition is everything in coin collecting. Even a rare coin loses most of its value if it’s badly scratched or worn. Proof coins like the 2009-S were never meant for circulation, so if you find one in decent shape, it’s likely still in excellent condition.
Grading scales run from 1 (barely identifiable) to 70 (perfect). For proof quarters, grades like PR65 to PR70 are most desirable. A PR69 or PR70 Deep Cameo example can be worth several times more than a coin graded PR65.
Look for coins with sharp, mirrored fields and frosted devices — that’s the raised design standing out against the shiny background. Coins that match this description are the ones collectors are willing to pay a premium for.
If you’re not sure how to grade your coin, CoinHix makes it simple. Just take a photo with your phone and the CoinHix app walks you through the grading process with easy-to-understand results.
Silver vs. Clad — Does It Matter?
Yes, it absolutely matters. The 2009-S Silver Proof Northern Mariana Islands Quarter was sold as part of a special Silver Proof Set. These coins contain 90% silver, which gives them both collectible value and intrinsic metal value.
With silver prices fluctuating, the melt value of a silver proof quarter alone can be worth $4 to $6 or more depending on the current spot price. Add collector demand on top of that, and you’ve got a coin worth hanging onto.
The clad version, while still a collector coin, doesn’t have the silver boost. But it’s still a desirable proof coin for anyone building a complete set of the 2009 territory quarters.
One tip: never clean your coins. Cleaning destroys the original surface and dramatically reduces value, even if the coin looks shinier to you. Leave it as-is and let a grader evaluate it in its natural state.
How to Find Out If Your Coin Is Valuable
The quickest way to figure out what your 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter is worth is to identify the exact variety and assess its condition. Check for the “S” mint mark just below “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse side.
Once you know what you have, compare it to recent sold listings on auction platforms or use a dedicated coin valuation tool. CoinHix is a great option — it’s built specifically for everyday people who find coins and want real answers fast, without needing to become an expert.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter rare?
A: It’s not extremely rare, but it is a limited-edition collector coin. San Francisco proof quarters were sold in sets, not distributed through regular bank channels, so they don’t show up in everyday change very often.
Q: How can I tell if my 2009-S quarter is silver or clad?
A: Look at the edge of the coin. A silver quarter will have a solid silver-colored edge with no copper stripe. A clad quarter will show a thin orange-brown copper layer sandwiched between two outer layers.
Q: Should I get my 2009-S Northern Mariana Islands Quarter graded?
A: If it appears to be in gem condition (virtually flawless), professional grading from PCGS or NGC could increase its sale value significantly. For coins in average condition, the grading fee may outweigh the benefit.
