1. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Low)
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter features a distinctive error, with a small extra leaf near the ear of corn on the reverse side of the coin. This error occurred due to a die that was used to strike the coins, which led to the leaf appearing on some of the quarters. Known as the “extra leaf low” variety, these coins are highly collectible and can fetch up to $1,500 or more in excellent condition. If you find one in your change, it’s worth a closer look!
2. 2005 Speared Bison Nickel
The 2005 Speared Bison Nickel is an error coin that occurred during the minting process, where the bison on the reverse side of the coin appears to be pierced by a spear. This happened due to a die clash, and only a small number of these coins were produced with the visible “spear” mark. These error coins are worth several hundred dollars, and depending on the condition, can fetch anywhere from $500 to $10,000.
3. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins in modern U.S. coinage. The error occurred when the die used to strike the coin was misaligned, resulting in the appearance of a doubled image of President Lincoln’s profile on the obverse side. These coins can be worth $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on their condition and the clarity of the doubling. If you find one, it could significantly increase the value of your collection.
4. 1999 Wide “AM” Lincoln Cent
The 1999 Wide “AM” Lincoln Cent is another valuable coin still in circulation today. On this penny, the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse are further apart than usual, creating a unique design feature. This error occurred in only a few of the 1999 pennies, and high-quality examples can be worth up to $1,000. If you happen to come across one, it’s definitely worth saving.
5. 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Reverse Errors
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Reverse Errors are a group of coins produced in 2009 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s 200th birthday. Some of these coins were struck with reverse designs that were misaligned, creating error coins that can be worth much more than a standard penny. Depending on the error and the condition of the coin, they can be worth anywhere from $50 to $1,000. Keep an eye out for these errors when checking through your change.
6. 1972 Eisenhower Dollar (Doubled Die Reverse)
The 1972 Eisenhower Dollar features a doubled die reverse on some coins, caused by a misalignment of the dies used to strike the coin. This error is particularly noticeable on the lettering and stars on the reverse side of the coin. While Eisenhower dollars are generally worth face value, the doubled die reverse variety can be worth anywhere from $500 to $5,000 depending on the coin’s condition. If you find one, it could be a highly valuable addition to your collection.
7. 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most well-known and valuable error coins in recent history. The doubling occurs on the obverse, particularly on the “Liberty” and “In God We Trust” inscriptions. This error was caused by the die being struck multiple times, creating a doubled appearance. Coins with this error in high grade can be worth anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more.
8. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar (Wide Rim)
The 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar was issued as part of the U.S. Mint’s effort to introduce a new series of $1 coins. Some of the coins produced had a wide rim around the edge, making them easily identifiable. These coins are a popular collectible, and high-grade examples can be worth up to $1,500. Keep an eye out for this variation, as it’s one of the more interesting error coins still in circulation.
9. 1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a famous and highly valuable coin due to a rare mistake during World War II. In 1943, the U.S. Mint was supposed to produce pennies using steel due to copper shortages. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, creating the 1943 Copper Penny. Only a handful of these coins exist today, and they can be worth $100,000 to $1 million depending on their condition. Although this coin is extremely rare, it’s worth checking your pennies for any signs that they might be the 1943 Copper Penny.
10. 2014-W Roosevelt Dime (West Point Mint Mark)
The 2014-W Roosevelt Dime is a rare coin produced at the West Point Mint as part of a special series to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime. While most dimes are struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the 2014-W Roosevelt Dime has the W mintmark, which makes it highly collectible. These coins are worth significantly more than the regular Roosevelt Dime, with values ranging from $5 to $100 depending on the coin’s condition.
11. 2018 Reverse Proof American Silver Eagle
The 2018 Reverse Proof American Silver Eagle is a limited edition coin that features a reverse proof finish, which gives the coin a distinctive matte finish while the design elements are shiny. These coins were issued by the U.S. Mint as part of a special set, and they are still in circulation in limited quantities. High-grade versions of the 2018 Reverse Proof American Silver Eagle can be worth anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on their condition.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if a coin is valuable?
Valuable coins are usually rare, have unique errors, or are produced in limited quantities. Pay attention to things like mint marks, unusual designs, and any errors or variations in the coin. Professional grading can also help determine a coin’s value.
Q2: Are there any common coins worth checking for errors?
Yes! Common coins, like the Lincoln Cent or State Quarters, can have errors that make them more valuable. Look for things like double mint marks, misaligned strikes, and unique die errors, which are all common in coins still in circulation.
Q3: How do I find valuable coins in my change?
To find valuable coins, regularly check your change for any coins that have unusual markings, errors, or rare mintages. If you suspect a coin is valuable, consider getting it appraised or graded by a professional to confirm its worth.
Q4: Should I clean my coins before selling them?
No, cleaning your coins can significantly reduce their value. It’s always best to leave coins in their original condition and have them professionally graded and authenticated if you plan to sell or collect them.
Conclusion
Finding valuable coins in circulation today can be an exciting and rewarding experience. From rare error coins like the 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Low) to high-demand collector’s items like the 2018 Reverse Proof American Silver Eagle, there are plenty of coins that are worth more than their face value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual coin enthusiast, these coins could be worth a closer look the next time you go through your change.