Many valuable coins may be hiding in your pocket change, and they could be worth significantly more than their face value due to unique characteristics, minting errors, or limited production. Here’s a list of eight highly sought-after coins that collectors prize for their rarity and remarkable value.
1943 Copper Penny
Value: Approximately $1.7 million
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for penny production to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were accidentally struck, making these coins extremely valuable. In 2010, one of these rare copper pennies sold for over $1.7 million, making it one of the most valuable error coins.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Value: Over $3 million
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a rare U.S. coin, with only five known to exist. Struck in secret, the coin wasn’t officially issued but somehow made its way into circulation, becoming a collector’s item. One of these rare nickels sold for over $4.5 million in 2018, making it one of the priciest U.S. coins.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Value: Up to $10 million
Widely believed to be one of the first silver dollars minted in the U.S., the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is treasured for its historical significance. Only about 1,800 were struck, and it remains one of the most extraordinary coins in U.S. history. In 2013, a high-quality specimen of this coin sold for over $10 million at auction.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
Value: Approximately $200,000
The 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous U.S. error coins. It features a noticeable doubling effect on the word “Liberty” and the date. This striking misprint was unintentional, but the coin’s unique appearance and rarity have made it highly valuable.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf
Value: Up to $1,000
A die error resulted in some 2004 Wisconsin State Quarters featuring an extra leaf on the corn stalk. Known as the “extra leaf” error, this coin can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its condition, due to its rarity and demand among collectors.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Value: Over $200,000
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel is renowned for a minting error that resulted in a missing leg on the bison’s reverse side, creating the famous “three-legged” buffalo. This unique error has made the coin highly desirable, with some examples fetching over $200,000 at auction.
1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
Value: Up to $150,000
Another famous error coin, the 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny, features a clear doubling of the date and lettering on the obverse side. This coin’s scarcity and unique doubling make it a valuable collector’s piece, sometimes selling for up to $150,000.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
Value: Up to $500,000
In 1942, a minting error occurred when a “1” in the date was overstruck by a “2” on some Mercury dimes, creating the 1942/1 error coin. This rare misprint is highly prized among collectors, with well-preserved examples fetching close to half a million dollars at auction.
Your pocket change might hold one of these rare treasures, worth far more than expected due to minting quirks or limited production. So, the next time you receive change, take a closer look—you might be holding a valuable piece of history in your hands.
FAQs
What is the value of a 1943 copper penny?
A 1943 copper penny can be worth around $1.7 million.
How many Liberty Head Nickels exist?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are known to exist.
Why is the 1794 silver dollar valuable?
It’s one of the first U.S. silver dollars minted, with historical value.
How can I identify the 1955 Double Die Lincoln penny?
Look for doubled lettering on ‘Liberty’ and the date.
What is the value of a 1937-D three-legged Buffalo nickel?
Some three-legged Buffalo nickels have sold for over $200,000.
