Do you have rare and expensive coins? These 6 coins could change your fortune!
Have you ever looked closely at the coins in your pocket and thought that they might be worth more than their actual price? Believe me, some rare coins are still circulating in normal transactions today, and can be worth $10,000 or more!
Whether you are an avid coin collector or just want to know the value of the coins you have, this guide will tell you about six coins that could make you lucky!
Which coins are rare and valuable?
Some coins become very valuable due to minting errors, limited production, or historical significance. If you find one of the 6 rare coins mentioned below, get it checked by a professional grading service (PCGS or NGC). Even small variations can make a big difference in the coin’s value!
| Coin Name | Estimated Value | Key Features | How to Identify |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny | Up to $100,000+ | Mistakenly minted in copper instead of steel | Does not stick to a magnet |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | $1,000 – $10,000+ | Double lettering in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” | Check for clear doubled text |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Penny | $10,000 – $70,000 | Prominent doubling of letters, “S” mint mark | Look for doubling and mint mark |
| 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | Up to $10,000 | Doubling in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” | No mint mark needed to be valuable |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny | Up to $15,000 | Doubling in “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” | Check the reverse side |
| 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny | $10,000+ | Small date, copper material | Weighs 3.1 grams instead of 2.5 grams |
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
This is one of the most famous error coins in the world. In 1943, most US pennies were made of steel because there was a shortage of copper during the war. But by mistake some copper pennies were also minted, which are now very rare and expensive.
How to identify?
- Use a magnet: Steel coins stick to a magnet, but copper ones do not.
- Look at the weight: A copper penny weighs 3.1 grams, while a steel penny weighs 2.7 grams.
How much can it cost?
- In normal condition: $10,000+
- In brand new condition: $100,000+
If you think you have this coin, get it checked by a professional immediately, as fake coins are also available in the market.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This coin is very popular among collectors because it had a unique mistake – the text and image on the coin were engraved twice.
How to identify?
- “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” have a double image.
- This doubling is visible even to the naked eye.
How much can it cost?
- In normal condition: $1,000 – $3,000
- In mint condition: $10,000+
3. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This is also a rare doubled die mistake coin, but it is considered even rarer than the 1955 penny. It is even more valuable due to the very small number of coins made.
How to identify?
- The coin will have an “S” mint mark.
- “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” will have a double image.
How much can it cost?
- In good condition: $10,000+
- In like new condition: $70,000+
4. 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This coin also had a double image mistake, but it does not have any mint mark. This means that this coin was made at the Philadelphia Mint.
How to identify?
- “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” will have a double image.
- It will have no mint mark.
How much can it cost?
- In like new condition: Up to $10,000
5. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
This coin is different from the rest of the doubled die coins, because the mistake was made on the reverse side of the coin.
How to identify?
- The letters “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” will have a double image.
- It will weigh 2.5 grams (it is made of zinc).
How much can it cost?
- In good condition: Up to $15,000
6. 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
In 1982, the US Mint started making coins from zinc instead of copper coins. But by mistake some small date copper pennies were made with a “D” mint mark (Denver Mint).
How to identify?
- It will weigh 3.1 grams (while zinc pennies are 2.5 grams).
- It will have a “D” mint mark and a small date.
How much can it cost?
- In good condition: Over $10,000
Do you have one of these coins?
If you think you have one of these rare coins, don’t make the mistake of spending it! Have it checked by a professional grading service (PCGS or NGC) first.
Finding rare coins is like winning a small lottery!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my 1943 penny is rare?
Check it with a magnet. If it sticks, it’s made of steel (which is common). If it doesn’t stick, it may be a rare copper penny.
What is a doubled die error?
The writing and image on the coin appear to be engraved twice, making them look blurry or double.
Where can I sell my rare coin?
You can sell it through coin dealers, auction houses, or grading services like PCGS and NGC.
Are fake rare coins out there?
Yes, there are many fake coins out there. So get a professional to examine any valuable coin before selling it.
Can rare coins still be found in pockets today?
Yes! Many rare and valuable error coins can still be found in normal transactions. So examine every coin carefully!
So the next time you find loose coins, take a close look at them—who knows, a rare treasure could be hidden in your pocket!