Do you know that the small coins jingling in your pocket or lying about in an old jar could be worth a small fortune of even thousands of dollars? While some coins can be sold for just the value they represent on the face-up side, other ones make it because of the errors, oddity, or historical significance. These coins may be ignored but can sometimes go for a fortune in the numismatic market. Who knows, you might just find yourself holding onto the hidden treasure. Let me show you five types of money that could fetch more than $500 and how to tell them apart.
1955 Lincoln Penny (Doubled Die Error)
In all probability, the 1955 Lincoln Penny, in U.S. numismatic history, could be cited as perhaps one of the most notorious errors. It was 1955, of course, and the error Lincoln Penny became very famous indeed in comparison with all the others. 1955 Lincoln Penny was, instead, accidentally created in that year, using double die during its production: The die made it appear like it was duplicating it, which was especially distinguishable with the date and inscriptions.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin is sought after due to its clear and dramatic doubling effect. It was an accidental production error that managed to slip through quality control and enter circulation. Since error coins are often scarce, they tend to appreciate in value over time.
How to Spot It
- Look for a distinct doubling effect on the inscriptions “1955” and “In God We Trust.”
- The doubling is easy to notice without a magnifying glass.
Value Range
- Circulated versions: $500–$1,500
- Uncirculated or near-mint condition: Up to $15,000 or more
Where to Find It
- Search through old penny rolls from banks.
- Check inherited coin collections or old jars of saved change.
1969-S Lincoln Penny (Doubled Die Error)
Similar to the 1955 penny, the 1969-S Lincoln Penny has a striking doubled die error, making it another prized collector’s item.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin’s doubling effect is particularly prominent on the date and inscriptions, adding to its collectibility. The rarity of the error contributes to its high market demand.
How to Spot It
- Check for clear doubling on the numbers “1969” and letters in “In God We Trust.”
- The “S” mintmark indicates it was minted in San Francisco.
Value Range
- Circulated versions: $500–$3,000
- Higher-grade examples: $10,000 or more
Where to Find It
- Old coin collections, especially those containing Lincoln pennies.
- Rolls of pennies from banks or estate sales.
1982 Copper Penny
In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from producing pennies in solid copper to a cheaper zinc composition. However, some copper pennies from this transitional year remain in circulation, making them rare and valuable.
Why It’s Valuable
These copper pennies are considered an anomaly from the minting process. Their scarcity has made them highly sought after by collectors.
How to Spot It
- Use a digital scale to weigh your 1982 pennies.
- Copper pennies weigh 3.11 grams, while zinc pennies weigh 2.5 grams.
Value Range
- Circulated copper versions: $500–$1,000
- High-grade, uncirculated versions: $10,000 or more
Where to Find It
- Old jars of pennies stored before the mid-1980s.
- Coin rolls from banks or thrift stores.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter features a unique and valuable minting error. Some of these quarters were struck with an extra leaf on the ear of corn depicted on the reverse side.
Why It’s Valuable
This error was unintentional, and only a small number of these coins exist. The variation with the extra leaf above or below the normal ones significantly increases its value.
How to Spot It
- Look at the corn husk on the reverse side of the quarter.
- If there is an extra leaf extending in an unusual position, it could be one of the rare varieties.
Value Range
- Circulated versions: $500–$1,200
- Uncirculated, high-quality versions: $3,000 or more
Where to Find It
- Check your pocket change for state quarters.
- Look through any state quarter collections or rolls.
2019-W American Silver Eagle Coin
The 2019-W American Eagle One Ounce Silver Coin, minted at West Point, is a modern rarity. Unlike most U.S. coins, which are minted in Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco, this coin bears the “W” mintmark for West Point, making it highly desirable.
Why It’s Valuable
This coin was produced in limited quantities and distributed as part of a special promotion. Collectors and investors alike seek it due to its rarity and silver content.
How to Spot It
- Look for the “W” mintmark on the reverse side of the coin.
- The coin is made of one ounce of pure silver.
Value Range
- Standard versions: $500–$2,000
- High-grade, certified versions: $5,000 or more
Where to Find It
- Not typically found in circulation, but may be in old coin collections.
- Some may have been gifted or inherited without the owner realizing their value.
Conclusion
Many people handle coins daily without realizing the potential treasures they might be holding. Rare coins like the 1955 and 1969-S Lincoln Pennies, the 1982 Copper Penny, the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter, and the 2019-W Silver Eagle Coin have values far exceeding their face amounts. Checking your spare change, old piggy banks, or inherited collections could yield surprising discoveries. With a keen eye and a bit of luck, you might just find a coin worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
FAQs
1. What are the most valuable coins to look for in circulation?
Some of the most valuable coins include the 1943 Copper Penny, 1969-S Doubled Die Penny, 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter, 1955 Doubled Die Penny, and 1972 Doubled Die Penny.
2. How can I tell if my coin is rare and valuable?
Check for unique features such as mint errors, doubling, special marks, or low mintage years. Using a magnifying glass and researching coin grading can help determine its value.
3. Where can I sell rare coins if I find one?
Rare coins can be sold at coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, auction houses, or specialized coin collector groups.
4. Are old coins always valuable?
Not all old coins are valuable. A coin’s worth depends on rarity, demand, condition, and minting errors rather than just its age.