When cleaning the house, you might stumble upon an old jar of change. Before wrapping those coins or heading to a coin-counting machine, take a moment to examine them closely. You might uncover rare and valuable coins worth far more than their face value.
Valuable coins don’t have to come from shipwrecks or ancient hoards. Some of the most sought-after coins were once in everyday circulation across America. Here’s a list of extraordinary coins to watch for the next time you dig through your spare change.
Rare and Valuable Coins to Look For
1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is a true collector’s prize. This rare penny features noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions, making it highly sought after. According to coin experts, fewer than 50 are believed to exist. In 2008, one sold for an impressive $126,500 at auction, and similar coins have fetched similar prices in subsequent years.
Even casual collectors have stumbled upon these coins. For example, in 2007, a collector discovered two in rolls of 1969-S pennies. If you find one, it could be worth a significant amount.
1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This famous error coin was created at the Denver Mint when a worn reverse die was used, resulting in a buffalo with only three visible legs. The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel has become one of the most iconic coins of the 20th century.
While pristine examples can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, even circulated versions are valuable, often commanding over $1,000. In 2021, a high-grade example sold for just under $100,000 at auction.
1901-S Barber Quarter
With only 72,664 minted, the 1901-S Barber Quarter is one of the rarest regular-issue silver coins of the 20th century. Even low-grade examples are highly sought after, fetching thousands of dollars.
High-grade specimens are exceptionally scarce, and mint-condition coins can command six-figure sums. Depending on their condition, these coins have sold for between $3,360 and $10,250 in recent auctions.
1893-S Morgan Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is often referred to as the “king” of Morgan dollars. In Mint State condition, it is among the rarest and most valuable coins in the series.
From an original mintage of 100,000 coins, fewer than 10,000 are thought to survive, with only a few dozen in mint condition. A particularly pristine example sold for $1.86 million in 2021. Even circulated examples are worth a small fortune.
2000-P ‘Cheerios’ Dollar
In 1999, the Philadelphia Mint struck 5,500 Sacagawea Dollars for a promotional campaign with Cheerios. Some of these coins were later discovered to feature extra detailing in the eagle’s tail feathers, making them exceptionally rare.
Dubbed the “Cheerios Dollar,” this coin has become a collector’s favorite. In 2020, one of these coins sold at auction for $10,200.
Tips for Spotting Valuable Coins
- Check for mint marks, errors, and unique details.
- Research the history and rarity of coins you find.
- Preserve any potentially valuable coins in protective cases to maintain their condition.
The next time you sift through your spare change, remember that some coins are worth far more than their face value. Who knows? You might just discover a hidden treasure.
My Name is Chris Mueller , I Work as a Content Writer for Sugyan and I like Writing Articles
