Coin collecting is not just a hobby—sometimes it’s a way to make money. While most coins you find in your pocket are worth just their face value, some rare coins are worth much more. If you’re lucky enough to have one, it could make you rich! Let’s explore 14 rare coins that might be hiding in your change right now.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This penny is rare because of a small engraving error. Only a few were minted, making it worth thousands of dollars today. Check the back for the “VDB” marking to see if you have one!
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This nickel is famous for being minted illegally. Only five are known to exist, and it can be worth over $4 million if you find one!
3. 1943 Copper Penny
Most pennies made in 1943 were made from steel due to a shortage of copper during World War II. But a few copper pennies were accidentally made, making them extremely valuable.
4. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This gold coin is rare because it was mostly melted down after being minted. If you find one, it could be worth several hundred thousand dollars.
5. 1933 Double Eagle
This famous coin was never officially released, making it incredibly rare. It can be worth tens of millions of dollars today.
6. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
This penny features a doubling error, which is highly sought after by collectors. It’s rare and can be worth a lot of money depending on its condition.
7. 1969-S DDO Lincoln Cent
This coin has a doubled die error on the front, and finding one in good condition can lead to big money.
8. 1999 Wide AM Reverse Lincoln Cent
This penny was made with a design error on the reverse side, which makes it very rare and valuable.
9. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter has a rare error where a “high leaf” appears on the corn stalk on the reverse. It’s worth more than the regular quarter.
10. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S Small Date penny is a rare coin that could be worth a lot if found in good condition. Its unique design makes it highly collectible.
11. 1983 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Cent
Another Lincoln cent with a doubling error, this coin can be worth hundreds of dollars in the right condition.
12. 1995 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
This penny has a noticeable doubling error on the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” areas, making it valuable to collectors.
13. 1942/1 Mercury Dime
This dime features a unique error where the “1” is visible under the “2” in the date. It’s rare and can be worth a lot to collectors.
14. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
This coin is popular among collectors because it was the last year of silver half dollars. In good condition, it can be worth more than face value.
While most coins you come across will just be worth their face value, there’s a chance you could find one of these rare, valuable coins. If you do, you might just have a small fortune on your hands. So, the next time you get change, take a moment to check it out—you never know what you might find!
Q1: How do I know if I have a rare coin?
A: Look for special errors or rare mint marks. Coins like the 1943 copper penny or the 1969-S DDO Lincoln cent are valuable because of unique features.
Q2: What makes a coin valuable?
A: The value of a coin depends on its rarity, condition, and demand from collectors. Coins with minting errors or limited production are usually worth more.
Q3: Are rare coins only from older years?
A: Not always. Some modern coins, like the 1999 Wide AM Reverse Lincoln cent, are valuable because of design errors that happened during minting.
Q4: How can I sell my rare coins?
A: You can sell rare coins through online auctions, coin shops, or by contacting professional coin graders to determine their value first.
Q5: Can I find rare coins in my pocket change?
A: Yes! Sometimes rare coins like the 1955 Double Die Lincoln cent or the 2004 Wisconsin quarter can turn up in your change. Always check your coins!
