Coins have long been a part of American history, but a few rare ones are worth far more than their face value. Whether due to low mintage, unique errors, or historical significance, some forgotten coins could be worth enough to fund your next vacation. Here, we highlight nine of these valuable coins, each with the potential to surprise collectors and turn a humble find into a remarkable payday.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most legendary coins among collectors. With only five known to exist, this coin’s rarity and mystery make it incredibly valuable. If you’re lucky enough to come across one, it could be worth millions, covering much more than a vacation.
1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a fascinating coin created during World War II, when most pennies were struck in steel to conserve copper. A few copper pennies were mistakenly made, making them extremely rare and valuable today. High-grade versions have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
1955 Doubled Die Penny
This penny is famous for its doubled text, which is noticeable in “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” Due to a minting error, the coin has become highly sought after. Even in circulated condition, it can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its grade.
1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar
This coin is so rare that only around a dozen are believed to exist. Minted in San Francisco, this Seated Liberty Dollar is a key piece for serious collectors. Its scarcity and historical significance make it a highly prized coin worth a significant amount.
1969-S Doubled Die Penny
Similar to the 1955 Doubled Die Penny, the 1969-S version also features noticeable doubling in the text. These coins are rare and desirable, with high-grade versions reaching substantial prices. Finding one in good condition could earn you enough for a vacation getaway.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This coin’s unique error involves the removal of one of the buffalo’s legs due to die polishing. This oddity has made it a collector’s favorite, with values in higher grades reaching thousands of dollars. The three-legged feature gives it both intrigue and added worth.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime was the first of its series, and its low mintage at the Denver Mint has made it a highly valuable coin. Collectors are drawn to this dime for its history and rarity, and well-preserved examples are worth thousands of dollars.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny, named for designer Victor David Brenner, is another rare find. Only a limited number were produced with his initials on the back, making these pennies incredibly valuable. Collectors prize this piece, with prices reaching thousands in high grades.
1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the most prized coins in American history. With only a few known to exist, this coin is a symbol of wealth among collectors. Its value is sky-high, often reaching millions at auction.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Philadelphia | $3,000,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Philadelphia | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Penny | 1955 | Philadelphia | $1,500 – $50,000 |
| 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar | 1870 | San Francisco | $1,000,000+ |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Penny | 1969 | San Francisco | $10,000 – $70,000 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | Denver | $500 – $15,000 |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Denver | $1,000 – $10,000 |
For collectors and casual hobbyists alike, these coins reveal the potential value hidden in small change. These “forgotten” coins can turn up unexpectedly and be worth more than enough to fund an unforgettable vacation.
FAQs
What makes these coins so valuable?
These coins gain value from their rarity, minting errors, historical significance, or low production numbers, making them highly sought after by collectors.
How can I tell if my coin is authentic and valuable?
Consulting a professional coin grading service is the best way to verify authenticity and value. Graded coins hold greater credibility in the collectors’ market.
Where can I sell valuable coins?
You can sell valuable coins through certified coin dealers, auction houses, or specialized online marketplaces. It’s recommended to work with professionals for high-value coins to ensure fair pricing.
Are all old coins worth a lot?
No, not all old coins are valuable. A coin’s worth depends on factors like rarity, condition, demand, and whether it has unique features such as errors.
What should I do if I find one of these coins?
If you believe you’ve found a valuable coin, handle it carefully and get it graded by a professional. Grading can significantly increase the coin’s resale value if it’s confirmed as authentic and in good condition.