The gold quarter value seems exhilarating, like winning the coin flip at the Super Bowl. But what’s the real tale behind these shiny coins? Are we talking about some secret pirate treasure that you can find in your spare change, or are these just novelty coins with a shiny coat and a higher price?

First, let’s clear up a big misunderstanding that people in the coin collecting world have. The Mint doesn’t make most of the “gold quarters” you see online or on TV. During the 50 States Quarters era, some smart marketers figured out that adding a tiny layer of gold on regular quarters would get people talking. They marketed them as collector investments, but the truth is otherwise. There is only a little amount of gold in these quarters—microns thick. Think about putting peanut butter on toast so thin that you can still see the bread.

So, what is that kind of gold quarter worth? The truth is that its value is based on how new it is, not on how much precious metal it has. Twenty-five cents is the face value of a standard quarter. Gold-plated quarters? People might buy them for a few dollars each as curiosities, not because they are worth a lot of gold, but because people like to collect strange things. In terms of melt value, they’re worth scarcely more than the cup of coffee you bought to keep you awake while sorting coins.

But let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater. There’s a huge exception: real solid gold quarters made by the U.S. Mint. For example, in 2016, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Standing Liberty quarter, the Mint put out a .9999 pure gold edition. These limited edition coins come with actual gold value—now we’re talking real money! The value here comes in three flavors: spot price of gold, collector demand, and physical quality.

Gold bullion value swings. Check the gold market for the day’s pricing. If a gold quarter contains a quarter ounce of gold, and gold’s trading at $2000 an ounce, the coin’s basic value would sit at $500. Collector demand may push it even higher—think bidding fights with paddle-waving fans. A coin in mint shape, still sparkling and sealed, will always command more than one that’s been jostled around in someone’s sock drawer.

Some folks stumble upon gold-plated quarters in pocket change and wonder if they’ve hit the lottery. Here’s a little locker-room pep talk: don’t quit your day job. Unless your coin’s a real gold issue, the difference in worth is frequently purely sentimental. Still, they certainly look shiny, and are excellent conversation starters. It’s always nice to have something to break the ice at parties, and a shiny quarter with a narrative is sure to get people’s attention.

Finding a real gold quarter? Check for realness. The U.S. Mint’s packaging, a certificate of authenticity, and clear mint markings are all helpful. Don’t be hesitant to seek an expert opinion if unsure. Remember, frauds are as prevalent as squirrels in a metropolitan park.

Hardcore coin collectors emphasize rarity, history, and condition over simple gloss. So, that weird gold-hued coin from a late-night TV buy probably won’t make you rich—but it can ignite a collecting obsession. And who knows? Next time you turn over a coin, you might just find gold worth far more than its shine.