Coins often spark stories that go beyond their face value. Some are tales of artistry, some of history, and others—like the so-called In Cod We Trust quarter—are born from quirks and misinterpretations. Circulating in 2022 and 2023, these quarters stirred excitement and confusion in the numismatic world because of what appeared to be a playful error in the nation’s motto.
At first glance, it looked like the U.S. Mint had accidentally replaced the iconic “In God We Trust” with “In Cod We Trust.” Collectors, hobbyists, and online sellers jumped on the buzz, presenting these coins as potential error rarities worth significant sums. But as more experts investigated, a clearer picture emerged—one that blends design detail, natural wear, and a lesson in how myths take root.
The Quarters That Sparked a Buzz
The controversy centers on U.S. quarters minted in 2022 and 2023, featuring updated obverse designs under the American Women Quarters Program. While the overall designs celebrated important historical figures, attention quickly turned to a small but significant part of the coin: the letter “G” in the word “God.”
In certain circulated examples, the serif—the tiny finishing stroke of the letter “G”—fades or blends into the coin’s field, making the letter look more like a “C.” This transforms “In God We Trust” into the humorous “In Cod We Trust.” It’s not an intentional minting mistake, but the resemblance is convincing enough to spark viral attention across collector forums and resale platforms.
Early Reactions and Myths
When these quarters first appeared online, they were often advertised as rare mint errors. Some sellers claimed they could fetch hundreds, even thousands of dollars. Collectors unfamiliar with error classification saw an opportunity to cash in, while others simply enjoyed the irony of a fish-related motto appearing on U.S. currency.
The truth, however, required closer examination. Major grading services, including NGC and PCGS, confirmed that no genuine error varieties had been authenticated. Instead, the phenomenon was a result of design detail combined with normal wear—something every coin experiences once it circulates.
Why “In Cod We Trust” Isn’t a Genuine Error
To understand why these quarters are not classified as true mint errors, it helps to define what numismatists mean by an error coin. A mint error occurs when something goes wrong during the actual production process at the U.S. Mint. Common types include:
Double strikes: A coin is struck more than once, leaving overlapping images.
Off-center strikes: The design is misaligned due to misfeeding in the press.
Wrong planchet errors: A design is struck on the wrong type of coin blank.
Die breaks or cuds: Parts of the die crack, leaving missing or raised areas on the coin.
These types of mistakes are officially recognized by grading services like PCGS and NGC, making the affected coins highly collectible.
By contrast, the “In Cod We Trust” quarters are not the result of mint machinery errors. Instead, they stem from:
Design detail: The letter “G” in “God” was rendered with a small serif.
Circulation wear: Over time, this serif wears down or blends with the background, leaving the letter looking like a “C.”
Optical illusion: To the casual observer, the motto appears changed, but in reality, no error occurred during minting.
This is why grading services and the U.S. Mint have not listed these coins as official error varieties.
Market Value: Myth vs. Reality
Despite online listings suggesting otherwise, most “In Cod We Trust” quarters are worth only face value—25 cents. They are neither rare nor authenticated as mint errors. That said, some exceptions apply:
Uncirculated rolls or proof sets from the U.S. Mint may carry modest premiums for their condition, but this is unrelated to the supposed “Cod” variation.
True errors from the same year—like double strikes or die clashes—do exist and may command higher prices, but they are separate from the motto discussion.
Collector novelty value: Some hobbyists enjoy the story and may pay slightly above face value for fun, but this is based on humor, not rarity.
This contrast highlights a vital point for collectors: value comes from authenticity and recognition, not just appearance.
How to Verify and Avoid Costly Mistakes
For collectors and hobbyists, the “In Cod We Trust” saga offers a reminder: looks can deceive. Verifying coins before assuming they are rare or valuable is crucial.
Using the Coin ID Scanner App
The Coin ID Scanner app (available for Android and iOS) gives collectors a practical way to separate myths from genuine finds. Its key features include:
Photo Identification: Upload or snap a photo of your coin to get detailed information—mint year, origin, type, composition, edge, diameter, weight, and estimated value.
Collection Management: Keep track of your coins in a personalized, digital collection.
Extensive Database: Access over 187,000 coins worldwide for reliable comparison.
AI Coin Helper and Smart Filters (premium): Quickly refine searches and get expert-style guidance on identifying varieties or spotting real errors.
For anyone puzzled by a suspicious-looking quarter, this tool provides clarity and confidence.
Lessons From the “In Cod We Trust” Story
The attention these quarters received highlights how easily misinformation spreads in numismatics. Sellers eager to profit can exaggerate claims, while new collectors may mistake quirks for valuable errors. The key takeaways are clear:
Educate yourself: Learn what constitutes a genuine error.
Rely on trusted tools and grading services: Apps like Coin ID Scanner, alongside PCGS or NGC certifications, provide reliable confirmation.
Stay cautious of inflated online listings: If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Why Knowledge Matters More Than Myths
In the end, “In Cod We Trust” quarters are amusing curiosities, not treasures. They reflect how everyday wear can spark viral myths but also how collectors can grow more informed by digging deeper.
For seasoned numismatists and beginners alike, the true reward lies in the knowledge, history, and artistry of coins, not just in chasing supposed rarities. With the right resources, collectors can enjoy the hobby while avoiding costly pitfalls—turning moments of myth into lessons of lasting value.