You may be surprised to learn that some of the coins lying around your house could be worth more than their face value. Whether you inherited them, collected them as a hobby, or simply stashed them away in a jar, here are ten valuable coins that could be hiding in plain sight:
1943 Lincoln Steel Penny
During World War II, the United States minted pennies from steel to conserve copper for the war effort. The 1943 Lincoln Steel Penny is relatively rare and can be worth more than a penny, especially if it’s in good condition.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
A mistake during the minting process resulted in the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny, which features a doubled image on the obverse side. These coins are highly sought-after by collectors and can fetch a significant price.
1972 Eisenhower Dollar
While most Eisenhower Dollars are not particularly valuable, the 1972 version has a few rare varieties, including the Type 2 variety with a smaller “S” mintmark. Keep an eye out for this variation, as it can be worth more than its face value.
1969-S Lincoln Cent with a Doubled Die Obverse
Similar to the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny, the 1969-S Lincoln Cent with a Doubled Die Obverse features a doubled image on the front of the coin. These coins are rare and can command high prices from collectors.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
In 1970, the San Francisco Mint produced two varieties of Lincoln Cents: one with a large date and one with a small date. The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent is scarce and valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf
An error during the minting process resulted in some 2004 Wisconsin State Quarters featuring an extra leaf on the ear of corn on the reverse side. These error coins are highly collectible and can be worth more than their face value.
1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny:
In 1992, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally produced a small number of Lincoln Pennies with a close “AM” in “America” on the reverse side. These coins are rare and can sell for a significant premium to collectors.
2005 Speared Bison Nickel:
Some 2005 Jefferson Nickels feature a die gouge that appears to pierce the bison on the reverse side of the coin. Known as the Speared Bison Nickel, these error coins are prized by collectors and can be worth more than their face value.
1942-1945 Silver Jefferson Nickel:
During World War II, the composition of the Jefferson Nickel was changed to include silver to conserve nickel for the war effort. Any Jefferson Nickels minted between 1942 and 1945 with a large mintmark above Monticello are made of 35% silver and can be worth more than face value due to their metal content.
Pre-1965 Silver Dimes, Quarters, and Half Dollars:
Prior to 1965, dimes, quarters, and half dollars in the United States were made of 90% silver. These coins have intrinsic value due to their silver content and can be worth significantly more than their face value, especially in today’s precious metal market.
Before you cash in your loose change, take a closer lookâyou might be holding onto some hidden treasures. Keep an eye out for these valuable coins in your collection, and consider having them appraised by a professional coin dealer or numismatist to determine their true worth. Who knows? You could be sitting on a small fortune without even realizing it!
