While pocket change may seem mundane, it can occasionally hold extraordinary value. Some coins currently in circulation or passed through generations can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors. Here are six coins you might come across that could be worth over $200,000.
Table of Contents
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel wasn’t officially issued for circulation, as the design had already been replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. However, five coins were secretly minted by a U.S. Mint employee, making them exceptionally rare.
Why It’s Valuable:
With only five known examples, this nickel is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. In 2018, one sold for $3.7 million at auction.
How to Spot One:
Compare the design to official images and verify the date. If you think you’ve found one, professional authentication is essential.
1969-S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Lincoln Cent features a minting error where the die struck the obverse (front) twice, creating a doubling effect on the date and inscriptions.
Why It’s Valuable:
This error coin is highly sought after due to its rarity and the striking nature of the mistake. High-grade examples have sold for over $200,000 at auction.
How to Spot One:
Look for a doubling effect on the date, the word “Liberty,” and the phrase “In God We Trust.” A magnifying glass can help confirm this subtle detail.
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, pennies were made from steel coated with zinc to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, creating the rare 1943 Copper Penny.
Why It’s Valuable:
With only a few known to exist, the 1943 Copper Penny is one of the most coveted coins in American history. In 2010, one sold for $1.7 million.
How to Spot One:
Copper pennies have a reddish hue and are not magnetic, unlike their steel counterparts. Use a magnet to test; a copper penny will not stick.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent features a dramatic minting error, where the date and inscriptions on the obverse appear doubled due to a misaligned die.
Why It’s Valuable:
This coin is famous among collectors for its distinct error and scarcity. High-grade examples have been valued at over $200,000.
How to Spot One:
Check the date and inscriptions for a clear doubling effect, particularly on “1955,” “Liberty,” and “In God We Trust.”
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Variety)
As part of the 50 State Quarters program, the 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter features an unusual minting error: an additional “leaf” on the corn stalk.
Why It’s Valuable:
This variety is extremely rare, and collectors pay a premium for examples in excellent condition. Some specimens have sold for over $200,000.
How to Spot One:
Inspect the corn stalk on the coin’s reverse for an extra leaf above the cob. A magnifying glass or loupe can help identify this subtle detail.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
A minting error in 1937 resulted in Buffalo Nickels being struck with only three legs on the buffalo instead of four. This happened due to excessive die polishing that removed the front leg.
Why It’s Valuable:
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a rarity highly prized by collectors. Well-preserved examples can sell for over $200,000.
How to Spot One:
Examine the buffalo’s front legs on the coin’s reverse. If one is missing while the others are intact, you may have a valuable find.
The coins listed above demonstrate the hidden value that might be sitting in your pocket change or coin jar. Each of these coins tells a unique story, combining historical intrigue, rarity, and minting errors. If you think you’ve stumbled upon one of these treasures, have it authenticated by a professional to confirm its value.
FAQs
How can I test if a 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet. Copper pennies won’t stick, but steel ones will.
What is the doubling effect on error coins?
It occurs when the die strikes twice, creating doubled images.
Why are minting errors valuable?
Errors are rare, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Where can I authenticate rare coins?
Use services like PCGS or NGC for professional authentication.
What makes the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel unique?
A minting error caused the buffalo to appear with only three legs.
