Collecting old coins can be more than just a hobby; it can be a way to discover real value hidden in your pocket change or attic. Many people don’t realize that some old coins have grown rare and valuable over time, making them potentially worth a lot more than their face value.
If you have the right coins, you could turn them into a surprising source of wealth. This article will guide you through twelve old coins that are known for their rarity and potential worth, helping you spot opportunities to add value to your collection or find a hidden treasure.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
If you come across a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, you might hold a piece of history worth millions. Only five of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely rare.
In recent years, these nickels have sold for prices ranging from around $3.7 million to over $4 million. Their unique design and scarcity make them highly sought after by collectors like you.
1943 Copper Penny
If you find a 1943 penny made of copper, you might have something special. Most 1943 pennies were made of steel due to wartime metal shortages.
A copper version is rare because it was a mistake during production. These pennies can be worth anywhere from a few thousand to over five thousand dollars, depending on condition.
Check your pennies carefully, as this coin could be a valuable collector’s item hidden in your change.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
If you have a 1955 Lincoln Cent, check the date and the words carefully. This coin is known for a “doubled die” error, where the numbers and letters look doubled.
These pennies can be valuable, with prices ranging from $1,000 to over $60,000 depending on condition. You might want to have yours appraised if you spot this doubling.
Collectors especially look for clear and sharp doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.” Even if your penny isn’t perfect, it could still be worth more than face value.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter Doubled Die
If you have a 2004 Wisconsin state quarter, check it closely. Some coins show a doubled leaf on the corn stalk, an unusual minting error.
This doubling is very subtle but can increase the coin’s value significantly. In fact, some of these error quarters have sold for thousands of dollars.
Look for the extra or layered leaf near the right side of the stalk. If yours has it, you might want to have it appraised.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
If you have a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny, it might be more valuable than you think. This coin was made in limited numbers, with only about 484,000 minted.
Collectors love this penny because of its rarity and unique design features. In good condition, it can be worth thousands of dollars. So, check your collection carefully—you might have a hidden treasure.
1969-S Double Die Lincoln Cent
If you come across a 1969-S Lincoln cent, take a closer look. Some of these coins show a doubled image on the obverse, making them rare collectibles.
This “double die” error happens during the minting process, causing the design to appear twice.
Depending on condition, your coin could be worth thousands. Even a well-preserved example can attract interest from collectors. Be sure to have it professionally checked if you think you found one.
1943 Steel Penny
If you find a 1943 steel penny, you have a piece of history from World War II. These pennies were made of steel instead of copper due to copper being used for the war effort.
Most 1943 steel pennies are common, but some rare errors can be valuable. Check your coin for unusual features, as certain varieties might interest collectors. Even if it’s not extremely rare, it still holds some worth as a unique wartime coin.
1932-D Washington Quarter
If you find a 1932-D Washington Quarter, you’re holding a key piece for collectors. Only 426,800 were made, making it quite rare compared to other quarters.
This coin was minted in Denver, and that “D” mintmark is your clue. Its scarcity means it’s worth more than regular quarters, especially if it’s in good condition.
Keep an eye out for this one when sorting through change or collections—you might have a valuable find!
1943-S Jefferson Nickel
If you find a 1943-S Jefferson Nickel, it might catch your interest because it was made during World War II. These nickels contain silver, unlike regular nickels, which adds some value to them.
Your coin’s worth depends on its condition and mint mark. Keep an eye out for unique errors or lamination peels, which can make your coin even more special to collectors.
1925-S Lincoln Penny
If you have a 1925-S Lincoln penny, it can be worth more than you might expect. Even in poor condition, it could fetch around a dollar.
Better-preserved coins, especially those in mint state, can be valued at $135 or more. You should check the coin’s color and any signs of wear to gauge its value.
1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
If you find a 1982 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark, it might catch your interest. These dimes are rare because most 1982 dimes have a “P” mint mark showing they were made in Philadelphia.
Some of these no mint mark dimes were discovered near Sandusky, Ohio, and even given as change at Cedar Point Amusement Park. While not all are valuable, having one could be worth checking out with a coin expert.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
If you find a 1995 Lincoln cent with a doubled die on the obverse, you’ve got something interesting. This coin shows noticeable doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.”
It’s one of the most dramatic doubled die errors from the 1990s and can be valuable. Even if you spot one in pocket change, it’s worth more than face value.
Keep an eye out for strong doubling on the letters and date, and consider having it graded if you think yours matches.