Have you ever wondered if that little bit of money in your pocket could be hiding a fortune? Some coins are worth far more than their actual value because they contain rare printing errors, misprints, or were made in limited numbers.
In mid of the period of the Second World War, the U.S. Mint had to start using steel pennies instead of copper in order to have the later metal used in the production of weapons. Users are also surprised to learn that there are copper pennies, although a few were minted by mistake during the 1943 production. These coins are tremendously scarce, and in the year 2010 one of them was auctioned for $ 1.7 million. The next time you find your selves glancing at coins, take a second look at this penny – you never know, it might just be your lucky penny.
Liberty Head Nickel, 1913
This was the rarest in the series and probably one of the rarest coins in the entire American notes and coins history since only five coins were ever produced. These coins were minted illicit besides any government’s consent, and this makes them even fascinating..
This Liberty Holding a Liberty Cap with Flowing Hair, Liberty, 1794 also known as Flowing Hair Silver Dollar.
Value: Up to $10 million
The Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is gearing among the few first-ever silver dollars ever minted in the United States. Just 1,800 were produced and it’s simply a collector’s piece. In 2013, a new minted piece of it was sold for $10 million.
**4. Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, 1955
**Value: $200,000**
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny has a doubling effect only on the digits in the date and the letters in the word ‘LIBERTY’. Such a silly printing mistake makes this book quite unique, and people are ready to spend up to $200,000 for it.
**5. Wisconsin State, 2004 Part of a series of state quarters and the only one that commemorates a carousel.
**Value: Up to $1,000**
An error on some of the Wisconsin State Quarters printed in 2004 results in corn plant having seven leaves instead of six. Depending on the condition of this coin, this coin can sell for between $ 500 to $ 1000.
**6. Buffalo Nickel, 1937-D**
**Value: Over $200,000**
The 1937-D is known to have an unusual printing error that caused the bison to be printed with one leg missing. It should be noted that this three-legged Buffalo Nickel can be sold for more than 200 thousand dollars at an auction.
**7. Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, 1969-S**:
**Value: Up to $150,000**
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny also has a doubling factor applied to the date and other inscription on the coin. Collectors also showed keen interest in this particular coin and can cost up to $150000.
**8. Mercury Dime, 1942/1**
**Value: Up to $500,000**
Some Mercury dimes minted in 1942 have an error that occurred when one of the digits was overstruck; the “2” was placed over the “1”. This is called the 1942/1 Mercury Dime and few of such coins were ever minted because they are considered to be a rare coin. The claim could be valued at up to $ 500 000.
Now the next time you have the opportunity to look at the coins in your pocket take a second look. This is why one of these coins might turn into gold for you!
FAQs
1. How can I identify rare coins in my pocket change?
To identify rare coins, carefully inspect them for unusual features like doubled dates, misplaced mint marks, or design errors.
2. What makes a coin valuable?
A coin becomes valuable due to its rarity, historical significance, or minting errors. Coins with defects, such as double strikes, misprints, or limited production, can be worth much more than their face value, especially if they’re in good condition.
3. Are there any specific years or mint marks to look out for?
Yes, certain years and mint marks can make a coin more valuable. For example, the 1943 copper penny, 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, and the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny are known for their rarity and errors, which significantly increase their value.
4. How do I sell a rare coin if I find one?
If you find a rare coin, it’s best to get it appraised by a professional numismatist or visit a reputable coin dealer.
5. Can these coins be found in regular pocket change?
While it’s rare, these valuable coins can still appear in pocket change, especially if they were circulating before becoming widely known for their value.