Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s part treasure hunt, part history lesson. And if you’ve ever wondered whether that old penny in your change jar is worth more than a cent, the answer might be yes—much more.
Imagine finding a coin in your wallet worth six or even seven figures. Sounds like fiction, right? But for some lucky collectors, it’s very real.
The truth is, there are rare coins still floating around in everyday circulation, just waiting to be observed. These valuable coins are often the result of minting mistakes, limited releases, or quirky historical circumstances.
Let’s look into five of the rarest coins that could be hiding in plain sight—and what makes them so insanely valuable.
Table of Contents
1943 Copper
Let’s start with the king of U.S. error coins—the 1943 Copper Penny. During World War II, copper was needed for ammunition, so the U.S. Mint began making pennies out of zinc-coated steel. But a few copper blanks from 1942 accidentally got used in 1943, resulting in one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
How valuable? Try over $1 million if it’s in excellent condition. And yes, it’s possible that one is still out there, mixed in with your spare change.
1913 Liberty
Only five examples of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel were ever made—and none were officially authorized. These coins were struck in secret by a U.S. Mint employee, making them even more legendary.
These five nickels have become holy grails for collectors. One sold for over $3 million at auction. The odds of finding one today are slim to none, but hey, crazier things have happened.
1955 Doubled
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins ever. A misalignment during the minting process caused doubling of the text on the coin’s front—“LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date all appear duplicated.
If you spot one of these, hang onto it. Depending on its condition, it could be worth anywhere from $10,000 to over $100,000. And yes, a few are still believed to be in circulation.
1970-S Large
Here’s one to look closely for: the 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Cent. Most 1970-S pennies feature a small date, but a small number were minted with a larger font. This subtle difference makes a huge impact on the coin’s value.
In top condition, this one can go for $50,000 to $100,000. The trick is spotting the difference—and yes, people have found them in pocket change.
1983 Reverse
Lastly, we’ve got the 1983 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Cent. This error coin shows doubling on the reverse side, especially in the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” It’s a bit more under the radar than the others, but still very collectible.
Prices for this one vary, but in pristine condition, it could go for several thousand dollars. Not bad for a coin that might be sitting at the bottom of your junk drawer.
Here’s a quick glance at what these coins are worth:
| Coin Name | Year | Key Feature | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Copper instead of steel | $100,000 – $1,000,000+ |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Unauthorized issue | $2,000,000 – $3,000,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | Doubled obverse | $10,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Cent | 1970 | Large date variety | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| 1983 Double Die Reverse Lincoln | 1983 | Reverse doubling | $1,000 – $15,000 |
The bottom line? Keep your eyes open. Whether you’re rolling coins, paying in cash, or sorting through an old piggy bank, you could stumble on one of these hidden gems. One lucky find might just change your life—or at the very least, give your wallet a serious upgrade.
FAQs
How rare is the 1943 copper penny?
Extremely rare—only a few dozen are known to exist.
What makes the 1913 Liberty nickel so valuable?
Only 5 were made, and they were never officially authorized.
How can I spot a 1955 doubled die penny?
Look for clear doubling on the date and inscriptions.
Is the 1970-S large date penny easy to find?
No, it’s rare and often confused with the small date version.
What’s special about the 1983 reverse die penny?
It shows doubling on the reverse—especially in the motto.
