You might be surprised at what’s hiding in your change jar. Among everyday coins, some rare and valuable ones could be worth much more than their face value.
These coins often go unnoticed but can hold significant historical and financial interest. Taking a closer look at your loose change could uncover hidden gems you didn’t expect to find.
Pre-1964 American Silver Coins
If you find coins dated before 1964, hold on to them. These coins, especially quarters, dimes, and half dollars, contain 90% silver.
They can be more valuable than their face value because of the silver content. Checking your change for these coins might surprise you.
Look closely at the dates on your coins. Finding one could add some unexpected value to your jar.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
If you find a 1913 Liberty Head nickel in your change, you’ve stumbled on an extremely rare coin. Only five of these nickels are known to exist.
These coins are highly valuable, with prices reaching millions of dollars at auction. They were never officially released, making them a fascinating piece of history.
1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is one of the rarest coins you might find. Despite its date, no silver dollars were actually minted in 1804, making these coins especially unique.
Only about 15 examples are known to exist, making this a highly sought-after coin in collections. If you ever come across one, it could be worth millions.
1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny
Most 1943 pennies were made from steel, not copper, due to wartime metal use. If you find a 1943 penny made of copper, it’s extremely rare.
These copper pennies were accidental and very few were released. If you spot one, it could be worth a significant amount.
1955 Doubled Die Penny
If you find a 1955 doubled die penny in your change, it might catch your interest. This coin shows noticeable doubling in the words like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
This minting error makes the penny more valuable than most regular pennies. Its condition affects its worth, so keep an eye out for those with clear details.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
If you have a 1972 Lincoln cent, look closely at the date. The doubled die obverse shows noticeable doubling on all four digits, especially to the southwest.
This doubled appearance can make your coin more valuable than a regular penny. Depending on its condition, some have sold for hundreds or even thousands.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
You might have a 2004 Wisconsin quarter with a unique error called the Extra Leaf. This coin shows an extra small leaf on the corn stalk design, either low or high on the leaf cluster.
These quarters were released into circulation, so you could find one in your change jar. Depending on its condition, this coin can be worth significantly more than face value.
Sacagawea Cheerios Dollar Coin
You might find a Sacagawea dollar with a special “Cheerios” reverse in your change jar. This coin was part of a promotional release by placing them in cereal boxes.
While most Sacagawea dollars are common, the Cheerios version is rare and can be worth thousands. If you come across one, it’s worth getting it checked by a professional.
Morgan Silver Dollar
You might have a Morgan Silver Dollar tucked away in your change jar. These coins were minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921.
Look for one with the letter “S” on it—those San Francisco mint coins tend to be rarer. Some, like the 1893-S Morgan, can be quite valuable depending on condition.
Indian Head Penny
You might have an Indian Head penny tucked away in your change jar without realizing its value. Some rare dates, like the 1909-S, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially in good condition.
Even ordinary-looking pennies can surprise you if they have mint errors or are well preserved. It’s worth checking your coins closely.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
If you spot a 1937-D Buffalo nickel with only three legs on the buffalo, you’ve found something special. This rare error happened because the mint dies clashed, removing one of the buffalo’s legs.
Collectors love this coin for its unusual look and limited numbers. Keep an eye out for the missing leg detail when checking nickels!
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
If you have a 1970-S penny, check the date closely. The Small Date version has thinner numbers and the “7” is closer to the “0.”
This version is much rarer than the Large Date and can be worth more. It’s worth taking a good look if you find one in your change jar.