Rare & Valuable Coins to Look Out For
Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that can be both enjoyable and profitable, especially when you come across some rare, special coins for sale. In fact, rare coins are among the most valuable collectibles you can collect! Whether you're a seasoned coin collector or just starting out, knowing which coins to look out for can make all the difference.
Here are some of the rarest and most valuable coins to look for, each with its own unique appeal and history.
1. 1943-S Copper Wheat Penny
The 1943-S Copper Wheat Penny is a true gem for anyone interested in coin collecting. During World War II, the United States Mint switched to producing pennies from steel to save copper for the war efforts. However, during production, a few copper blanks were mistakenly used, resulting in this rare coin. Only a handful of these pennies exist, making them incredibly valuable. If you come across one, you're looking at an old coin that's worth thousands of dollars!
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, Featuring Lady Liberty on its face, is another rare coin that's highly sought after. Only five of these coins were ever minted, and their origin remains a mystery. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most wanted coins by collectors, with each one worth millions. It's one of those rare coins to look for if you're hoping to strike it rich with your collection.
3. 1955 Doubled Die Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is famous for its distinctive error. The doubling of the date and the lettering on this coin is a result of misalignment during the minting process. While this was the case, the error coin is still prized among collectors due to its uniqueness and historical value –– making the coin value significantly higher.
4. Doubled Die Obverse
Doubled Die Obverse coins feature a noticeable doubling of the image on the coin's front side. These coins are the result of a die that strikes the coin twice in slightly different positions. Collectors prize these error coins for their rarity and the intriguing story behind their creation. One of the most famous examples is the 1972 Lincoln cent.
5. Morgan Silver Dollar
The Morgan Silver Dollar, minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, is beloved by collectors for its classic design and historical significance. Named after their designer, George T. Morgan, these silver coins are a staple in many collections. The value of a Morgan Dollar can vary greatly, with some rare dates and mint marks fetching thousands of dollars.
6. Liberty Seated Dollar
The Liberty Seated Dollar, minted from 1840 to 1873, is another valuable coin that collectors seek. This dollar coin features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a liberty pole. The design changed several times during its minting, making some variations more valuable. These silver coins can be worth a significant amount, especially in higher grades.
7. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime is a fascinating error coin. In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally omitted the mint mark on some of its dimes. Like other error coins, a mistake makes these dimes quite rare and highly collectible.
8. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter is notable for a unique error: an extra leaf on the corn stalk. There are two versions of this error coin, known as the "High Leaf" and “Low Leaf” varieties. These quarters were part of the United States Mint's 50 State Quarters program and have become popular among collectors due to their rarity and history.
9. 1787 Brasher Doubloon
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is a highly prized and valuable gold coin. Ephraim Brasher, a New York City goldsmith and silversmith, minted these coins privately. The Brasher Doubloon features its signature Brasher's "EB" punch on the breast of the eagle on the reverse side. These ancient coins are extremely rare, with a coin value worth millions of dollars, making them a prized possession for any serious coin collector.
10. Franklin Half Dollar
The Franklin Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. These half dollars are popular among collectors due to their historical significance and relatively short minting period. Some rare dates and high-grade coins can be quite valuable, making them a great addition to any coin collection.
11. 2005-P Kansas State Quarter
The 2005-P Kansas State Quarter is known for a peculiar error where the "In God We Trust" motto appears as "In God We Rust" due to a grease-filled die. This error coin is a fun and interesting find for collectors. While not as valuable as some other error coins, it still holds a special place in the hearts of coin enthusiasts.
12. 1909-S Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S Lincoln Cent is highly coveted among coin collectors. It was the first year the Lincoln Penny was minted, and the San Francisco Mint produced a relatively low number of these coins. The combination of historical significance and scarcity makes the 1909-S Lincoln Cent a valuable addition to any collection. While many Lincoln pennies remain common, this particular cent stands apart due to its limited mintage and special place in numismatic history. Collectors treasure it as a landmark in the long-running Lincoln coin series.
13. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar stands out as one of the rarest and most sought-after Morgan Dollars ever produced. Minted in San Francisco during an economic downturn, only 100,000 coins were created, and today, even fewer remain in good condition. Its scarcity, combined with its historical value, makes it incredibly appealing for serious coin collectors. Whether you're looking to add it to your personal collection or eventually sell it for a profit, owning an 1893-S Morgan Dollar isn’t just about adding value—it’s about preserving a small but significant piece of American numismatic history.
14. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Known for its striking design, the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is among the rarest gold coins in existence. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, it features Lady Liberty confidently walking forward, holding an olive branch and torch. Only a small fraction of these coins survived after gold recalls in the 1930s, significantly elevating their rarity and value. Today, the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle commands millions at auctions, making it a true treasure for dedicated collectors.
How Can I Tell if My Coin is Rare?
Identifying a rare coin isn’t always straightforward, but there are key factors to look for:
Mint marks and dates: Check your coin for mint marks (letters indicating where it was struck). Rare coins often come from specific mint locations or years when fewer coins entered circulation.
Condition and grade: Coins in pristine condition (higher grades) are typically rarer and command a higher price. Look closely for wear, scratches, or damage, as these can significantly impact the coin's value, especially with proof coins, which were struck specifically for collectors.
Errors and unique features: Coins with minting errors—such as double-strikes, missing elements, or unusual marks—can dramatically increase a coin’s rarity and collectibility. A famous example is the 1955 Lincoln cent with a prominent double-die error, frequently appearing on collectors' wish lists.
Historical significance: Coins from historically significant years or events are usually more sought after. Do some quick research to see if your coin ties into notable historical moments or is a type highly valued among collectors.
Still unsure? Professional appraisal or coin grading services can help determine your coin’s exact rarity and market value. Whether you intend to keep or eventually buy or have it sold, remember: every coin tells a story, and uncovering its past can be just as exciting as discovering its worth.
Sources:
1982 10C No Mintmark - Strong (Regular Strike). PCGS CoinFacts, Professional Coin Grading Service. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1982-10c-no-mintmark-strong/5162
