Did you know some of the coins jingling in your pocket or resting in an old jar could be worth hundreds, even thousands, of dollars? While most coins hold their face value, a few rare ones stand out for their unique errors, minting quirks, or historical significance. Let’s look into five types of coins that could fetch you over $500 if you’re lucky enough to find them.
Table of Contents
1955 Lincoln Penny
This penny, known for its “doubled die” error, is a favorite among coin collectors. The doubling effect is prominent, especially on the date “1955” and the phrase “In God We Trust.”
Value: $500–$1,500+
How to Spot: Look for a clear doubling effect on the inscriptions.
Where to Find: Search through old coin rolls, jars, or loose change.
1969-S Penny
Another penny with a famous doubling error is the 1969-S Lincoln Penny. It was minted in San Francisco and shows striking doubling on the date and other inscriptions.
Value: $500–$3,000
How to Spot: Check for doubling on the “1969” and Lincoln’s face.
Where to Find: Sift through old collections or change from penny rolls.
1982 Copper Penny
In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc pennies. A copper penny from this year is an exciting find due to its rarity.
| 1982 Penny Types | Weight |
|---|---|
| Copper | 3.11 grams |
| Zinc | 2.5 grams |
Value: $500–$1,000+
How to Spot: Use a small scale to weigh your 1982 pennies. Copper ones weigh more.
Where to Find: Dig through old savings jars or penny collections.
2004 Wisconsin Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter has a variety featuring an extra leaf on the ear of corn in its design. This minor detail makes it highly valuable.
Value: $500–$1,200+
How to Spot: Examine the ear of corn for an extra leaf above or below the usual ones.
Where to Find: Look through state quarters, especially if you’ve collected them.
2019-W Silver Coin
The 2019-W American Eagle One Ounce Silver Coin, minted at West Point, is highly sought after due to its limited release.
Value: $500–$2,000+
How to Spot: Check for the “W” mintmark on the reverse side.
Where to Find: It’s unlikely in pocket change but could be in old collections or inherited items.
Some of these coins might seem ordinary at first glance, but with a closer look, they can turn out to be treasures. If you’ve got a jar of spare change, it’s time to dig in—your next payday could be hiding right there.
FAQs
How do I identify a rare coin?
Check for minting errors, unique markings, and limited mintage years.
Can I weigh coins without special tools?
Yes, use a small kitchen or jewelry scale to measure coin weight.
Where can I sell rare coins?
You can sell them at coin shops, auctions, or online marketplaces.
Are damaged coins still valuable?
Some damaged coins can hold value, but condition often affects price.
What is a mintmark on a coin?
It’s a small letter indicating where the coin was minted.
