Finding rare coins with high values in your spare change might sound like a dream, but it’s more common than you think. Collectors and enthusiasts have been lucky enough to come across coins worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in their everyday transactions.
Here’s a list of some of the most valuable coins you might stumble upon, ranging from old designs to unusual mint errors.
Coins with Incredible Value You Could Find in Spare Change
1. 1943 Lincoln Steel Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint created pennies from steel rather than copper. While these coins are not exceptionally rare, some versions have an error where copper was mistakenly used. If you find a 1943 penny made of copper, you may be holding a coin valued in the thousands.
2. 1969-S Lincoln Memorial Cent Doubled Die
This penny from 1969 features a doubling error on the obverse side, especially visible in the text “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.” A well-preserved example of this coin could bring significant returns due to its rarity and unique appearance.
3. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S penny comes in both large and small date varieties, with the small date being more valuable. It’s most valuable when it’s in mint condition, though even circulated versions can be worth considerably more than face value.
4. 1999 Wide “AM” Penny
One of the rarest and most valuable coins from the 1990s is the 1999 wide “AM” penny. On this coin, there is extra spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “America” on the reverse side. The wide “AM” error is very rare, making it highly sought after by collectors.
5. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
While mint marks are standard on coins, a few 1982 Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly produced without one. Coins without a mint mark are rare and valuable, especially in good condition, as they are unique from their typical counterparts.
6. 2005 Kansas “In God We Rust” Quarter
This Kansas state quarter has an unusual minting error where the “T” in “Trust” appears faint or even missing, leading to the phrase “In God We Rust.” This distinctive error has made these quarters highly collectible.
7. 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1995 penny with a doubled die on the obverse side is another valuable find. The doubling is visible in “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” This error type is relatively common in coins, but its scarcity on this particular penny makes it desirable.
8. 1983 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Cent
This penny shows doubling on the reverse side, specifically in the “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” text. Coins in excellent condition with this error are worth far more than their face value and are highly prized by collectors.
9. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar
Some 2000-P Sacagawea dollars have an unusual error where they were struck on a quarter planchet, giving the coin a silver appearance instead of its typical gold color. These coins are rare and can be worth a substantial amount due to the error.
| Year | Coin Name | Error Type | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Lincoln Steel Penny | Copper error | Thousands |
| 1969 | Lincoln Memorial Cent | Doubled Die | Thousands |
| 1970 | Small Date Lincoln Cent | Small Date | Hundreds |
| 1999 | Wide “AM” Penny | Wide AM | Thousands |
| 1982 | Roosevelt Dime | No Mint Mark | Hundreds |
| 2005 | Kansas Quarter | “In God We Rust” | Hundreds |
| 1995 | Lincoln Cent | Doubled Die | Hundreds |
While it might seem unlikely, checking your spare change could lead to a valuable find. These coins highlight the importance of looking closely at what’s in your wallet or piggy bank. Each coin’s value can vary based on its condition and specific error, so if you think you’ve found one, having it authenticated could be well worth your time.
FAQs
What should I look for when checking for valuable coins?
Look for unusual markings, doubling, or missing mint marks, as these are often indicators of valuable coins.
How can I tell if a coin is valuable?
Researching the coin’s minting year and error types can give you an idea of its worth. Professional grading services can provide a precise valuation.
Where can I sell rare coins?
Rare coins can be sold at auctions, online marketplaces, or through coin dealers. Make sure to get your coin appraised for a fair market value.
Can these coins still be found in circulation?
Yes, though rare, these coins occasionally turn up in circulation. It’s a good idea to check change from cash transactions.
Should I get a rare coin graded?
If you believe your coin has significant value, getting it graded by a reputable service can help authenticate and establish its worth.
