Most of us overlook the coins in our wallets, jars, or drawers, considering them everyday currency. But hidden among them could be rare coins with significant value—potentially worth over $500. From mint errors to unique features, these coins have captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Let’s look into five coins you might find that could transform your spare change into a small fortune.
Doubled Die
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is iconic among collectors. Minted in Philadelphia, it features a striking design error where the date and inscriptions appear doubled.
What to Look For
Examine the “1955” and the phrase “In God We Trust.” The doubling effect is obvious and makes this penny stand out.
Estimated Value
Depending on condition, these pennies are worth between $500 and $1,500, with mint-condition examples fetching even higher prices at auctions.
Where to Find
Search through old penny jars or rolls of coins. Many of these pennies entered circulation, making them a plausible find.
Lincoln
The 1969-S Lincoln Penny, another doubled die rarity, hails from the San Francisco Mint. It features distinctive doubling on the date and parts of Lincoln’s portrait.
What to Look For
Look closely at “1969,” Lincoln’s eye, and his cheek for evidence of doubling.
Estimated Value
This coin’s value ranges from $500 to $3,000, with professionally graded specimens commanding top dollar.
Where to Find
You could uncover this gem in your spare change or old collections of pennies, so don’t overlook small coins!
Copper
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc pennies. However, some 1982 copper pennies were still minted, making them highly desirable.
What to Look For
Weigh the coin. Copper pennies weigh 3.11 grams, while zinc ones weigh 2.5 grams.
Estimated Value
A copper 1982 Lincoln Penny can fetch between $500 and $1,000, with pristine examples valued even higher.
Where to Find
These pennies can easily be hidden among your change. Dig through your collections to identify any 1982 specimens.
Wisconsin
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is famous for a mint error that added an extra leaf to the corn depicted in its design.
What to Look For
Inspect the ear of corn closely. The “Extra Leaf” variety has a distinct additional leaf above the ear.
Estimated Value
These quarters can be worth $500 to $1,200, depending on condition and grading.
Where to Find
Check through your pocket change, especially if you’ve been collecting state quarters or have visited Wisconsin.
American Eagle
The 2019-W American Eagle Silver Coin is a collector’s dream due to its limited mintage and exclusive release by the U.S. Mint.
What to Look For
Look for the “W” mintmark on the coin’s reverse side, signifying its origin at the West Point Mint.
Estimated Value
In uncirculated condition, these coins are valued at $500 or more, with some selling for up to $2,000.
Where to Find
These coins are less likely to appear in pocket change but might be part of inherited collections or purchased from numismatic events.
Coins like these prove that everyday currency can sometimes hold extraordinary value. By taking a closer look at your spare change, you might just uncover a hidden treasure worth far more than its face value.
FAQs
What is the 1955 Doubled Die Penny?
A rare penny with a doubled date and inscriptions.
How do I identify a 1969-S Lincoln Penny?
Look for doubling on the date and Lincoln’s face.
How to check if a 1982 penny is copper?
Weigh it—copper weighs 3.11 grams, zinc 2.5 grams.
What is unique about the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter?
It features an extra leaf in the corn design.
What makes the 2019-W Silver Coin valuable?
Its limited mintage and West Point mintmark.