The world of coin collecting offers incredible opportunities, especially with coins that are undervalued. These coins may not yet have the recognition they deserve, but their rarity, historical significance, and potential for appreciation make them excellent additions to any collection. Here are six undervalued coins you should consider collecting today.
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1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This coin marked the debut of the Lincoln Cent, celebrating Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. The initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) on the reverse sparked controversy, leading to a limited mintage of this coin from the San Francisco Mint.
Why It’s Undervalued:
Despite its fame among collectors, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent remains relatively affordable compared to its rarity and historical importance. Its limited mintage and status as the first U.S. coin featuring a real person make it a prime candidate for future value appreciation.
Recommendation:
Focus on higher-grade coins graded XF (Extremely Fine) or better by PCGS or NGC. Mint State coins with strong details and clean surfaces offer excellent long-term growth potential.
1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
This iconic error coin was created due to a misaligned die, causing a doubling effect on the obverse features, including the date and inscriptions. Initially a mistake, it became one of the most famous coins in U.S. numismatics.
Why It’s Undervalued:
While highly sought after, the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is still undervalued compared to other key errors. High-grade examples are particularly rare, making them an excellent choice for collectors.
Recommendation:
Seek out coins graded MS-63 or higher for the best investment potential. The combination of rarity and collector demand ensures its continued value appreciation.
1932-D Washington Quarter
Introduced to celebrate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the Washington Quarter is a cornerstone of U.S. coinage. The 1932-D is a key date in the series, with a low mintage of just over 1.5 million coins.
Why It’s Undervalued:
Despite its scarcity, the 1932-D Washington Quarter hasn’t reached the price levels of other key-date coins. High-grade examples are particularly rare and poised for growth as collectors seek to complete their Washington Quarter collections.
Recommendation:
Focus on coins graded MS-65 or better. Clean surfaces and strong details are crucial for maximizing value in this key date.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This famous error coin was created when a die was over-polished, removing the buffalo’s front leg on the reverse. The result is one of the most visually striking and beloved errors in U.S. coinage.
Why It’s Undervalued:
Despite its fame, the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is still undervalued in lower grades. High-grade examples are significantly rarer and offer great potential for appreciation.
Recommendation:
Look for coins in AU (About Uncirculated) to MS-63 grades. These coins are more affordable now but are likely to increase in value as interest in error coins grows.
1877 Indian Head Cent
The 1877 Indian Head Cent is a key date in the series, with a low mintage of just over 852,000 coins. It is one of the scarcest and most desirable coins among U.S. cents.
Why It’s Undervalued:
Although a key date, the 1877 Indian Head Cent hasn’t yet achieved the high prices of similar key dates in other series. Its rarity and historical importance make it a strong candidate for future growth.
Recommendation:
Seek out examples in VF (Very Fine) or higher grades. Coins with original surfaces and minimal wear are especially valuable and likely to appreciate.
1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime
In 1982, a batch of Roosevelt Dimes was struck without mintmarks, creating a rare variety. These coins are modern anomalies but are highly prized by collectors who appreciate minting errors.
Why It’s Undervalued:
The 1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime is relatively unknown among casual collectors, keeping its prices modest. However, its rarity and unique status make it an excellent choice for those looking to invest in modern numismatics.
Recommendation:
Focus on uncirculated examples with strong details. As awareness of this coin grows, so will its value, making it a worthwhile addition to your collection.
These six coins represent hidden gems in the coin-collecting world. While they may not yet command the highest prices, their rarity, historical significance, and collector appeal make them excellent candidates for future value appreciation. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual collector, adding these coins to your collection now could yield substantial rewards in the years to come.
FAQs
Why is the 1909-S VDB penny valuable?
It’s rare and marks the first U.S. coin featuring a real person.
What is a double die error?
It’s a minting mistake causing doubled features on the coin.
Why is the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel unique?
A minting error removed the buffalo’s front leg, creating a rare design.
What makes the 1877 Indian Head Cent special?
Its low mintage makes it one of the scarcest Indian Head Cents.
How can I identify a 1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime?
Check for the absence of a mintmark near the date on the obverse.
