Pocket change isn’t just for the coffee machine or parking meter—it can be a hidden treasure! Some coins that are often overlooked can be worth millions due to their rarity, mistakes, or special designs. Here are six valuable coins that could be hiding in your pocket or coin jar.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Value: Over $200,000 (Up to $3.7 million)
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is one of the most famous coins in American history. This coin was never supposed to be minted because by 1913 the U.S. Mint had changed the Buffalo nickel design. However, five Liberty Head nickels were secretly made, possibly by a Mint employee, and they are now one of the most desirable coins in the world.
Why it’s valuable
Only five coins were ever minted, making it extremely rare. One coin sold at auction for $3.7 million in 2018.
How to Identify
Look closely at the Liberty Head design and the 1913 date on the coin. Genuine examples are already fully certified, so if you find this coin it will be a huge find.
1969-S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
Value: Over $200,000
This coin with a mistake is famous for its double effect, in which words like the date and “Liberty” appear to be printed twice.
Why It’s Valuable
Only a few examples of this double die mistake exist, making it a favorite among collectors. High-quality coins can be worth over $200,000.
How to Identify
Look closely at the date and the words “Liberty.” If these appear double, you may have a rare coin.
1943 Copper Penny
Value: Up to $1.7 million
During World War II, the US Mint made zinc-covered steel pennies to save copper for the war. However, some copper pennies were accidentally made, and this coin became one of the rarest coins in US history.
Why it is valuable
This coin is highly valuable due to its rarity and historical significance. One coin sold for $1.7 million in 2010.
How to identify
The copper penny is red in color, while the steel penny is gray. You can confirm this by using a magnet—the copper penny does not stick to a magnet, but the steel penny can.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Value: Over $200,000
This coin is famous for its impressive doubling mistake, in which a double effect appears on the date and words, making it one of the most famous mistake coins in US history.
Why It’s Valuable
The 1955 Doubled Die coin is a collector’s favorite, both because of its intense doubling and because of its limited number. High-quality examples can be worth over $200,000.
How to Identify
Look for the doubling on the date, “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” This impressive doubling feature is easily recognizable.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Variety)
Value: Over $200,000
As part of the 50 State Quarters program, the Wisconsin quarter had a design of a cow and ears of corn on it. However, some coins mistakenly featured an extra leaf in the ears of corn.
Why It’s Valuable
This mistake is rare, and high-quality coins can sell for over $200,000.
How to Identify
Look carefully at the ear of corn on the reverse of the coin. If you see an extra leaf near the top or bottom corn ear, you may have a valuable coin.
| Coin Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Regular Wisconsin Quarter | $0.25 |
| Extra Leaf Error | Up to $200,000 |
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Value: Over $200,000
This coin became famous because of a mistake that left the buffalo with one of its back legs missing.
Why It’s Valuable
This mistake is rare and visually appealing, making it highly desirable among coin collectors. High quality coins can sell for over $200,000.
How to Identify
Inspect the buffalo’s front legs. If one leg is missing but the back legs are intact, you may have a Three-Legged Buffalo nickel.
The next time you go through your pocket change, keep an eye out for these hidden treasures. If the Mint made a mistake, it could open up a big buck!
FAQs
What makes these coins valuable?
These coins are rare, with unique errors or designs that make them highly sought after by collectors.
How can I identify a valuable coin?
Look for distinctive errors like double strikes, missing elements, or unusual features on the coin’s design.
Where can I sell valuable coins?
You can sell rare coins at auctions, specialized dealers, or through online platforms catering to numismatic collections.