Many people think that valuable coins only exist in museums or collector showcases, but the truth is that rare and extremely valuable coins can still be found in everyday circulation.
Some of these coins are worth upwards of $1.7 million, making it crucial to check your change carefully. Here are four of the most valuable coins that could be hiding in your pocket or coin jar.
1. 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny
Why It’s Valuable
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort.
However, a small number of bronze pennies were accidentally minted in 1943, making them one of the rarest coins in American history.
Estimated Worth: One of these coins sold for $2.3 million at auction.
How to Identify:
- Color Test: Check if your 1943 penny is copper-colored instead of steel.
- Magnet Test: Use a magnet – steel pennies will stick, but the rare bronze ones will not.
- Mint Mark: Look for the “D” mint mark below the date, indicating it was minted in Denver.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Why It’s Valuable
Only five of these nickels were ever produced, making them among the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins.
Estimated Worth: One example of this coin sold for $3.7 million.
How to Identify
- Design: Look for a Liberty Head design on a nickel with the year 1913.
- Authenticity: Due to counterfeits, it’s recommended to have any suspected finds authenticated by a professional numismatist.
3. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Why It’s Valuable
This $20 gold coin was never officially released into circulation due to the U.S. abandoning the gold standard in the early 1930s. Most were melted down, making any surviving coins extraordinarily rare.
Estimated Worth: One coin set a record by selling for $18.9 million in 2021.
How to Identify
- Design: This coin features Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch on the front and a flying eagle on the reverse.
- Date: The date on the coin will be 1933.
- Legal Status: If found, it must be authenticated by experts, as it is illegal to privately own without special permission from the U.S. government.
4. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
Why It’s Valuable
This quarter was among the first quarters ever produced by the U.S. Mint, with only 6,145 minted that year. Surviving examples are extremely rare.
Estimated Worth: One of these coins recently sold for $1.74 million at auction.
How to Identify
- Design: The coin features the Draped Bust design with the year 1796.
- Reverse Side: The reverse side depicts an eagle surrounded by a wreath.
- Condition: Due to its age, most surviving examples will show wear, but even lower-quality specimens hold significant value.
How to Identify Valuable Coins in Your Change
If you suspect you’ve found a valuable coin, follow these steps:
- Check the Mint Marks and Dates: Certain mint years and missing or unique mint marks make coins more valuable.
- Look for Doubling or Errors: Coins with misprints, double dies, or missing elements can command high prices.
- Use a Magnet Test: Rare 1943 Bronze Pennies should not be magnetic.
- Weigh the Coin: Some valuable coins have slight weight differences compared to their standard versions.
- Get a Professional Appraisal: Consult with a numismatist or a certified coin grading service to determine authenticity.
Summary of Valuable Coins
| Coin | Year | Mint Mark | Unique Feature | Estimated Worth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny | 1943 | D | Copper-colored instead of steel | $2.3 million |
| Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | None | Only five ever produced | $3.7 million |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | None | Never officially released; gold coin | $18.9 million |
| Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | None | Among the first quarters minted; low mintage | $1.74 million |
Millions of coins are exchanged daily, but a rare find in your spare change could change your life. Whether it’s a 1943-D Bronze Penny, a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, or another high-value coin, taking a closer look at your change could lead to a million-dollar discovery.
The next time you receive pocket change, take a moment to inspect each coin. You never know—you might just be holding a coin worth over $1.7 million!
FAQs
What should I do if I find a coin that I think is valuable?
If you believe you’ve found a valuable coin, it’s essential to have it authenticated by a professional numismatist or a certified coin grading service. They can provide an accurate assessment of the coin’s value and authenticity.
Are there any legal issues with owning rare coins like the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle?
Yes, the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is illegal to privately own without special permission from the U.S. government. If you come across one, it’s crucial to consult with experts to understand the legal implications.
How can I differentiate between a rare coin and a counterfeit?
Identifying a counterfeit can be challenging. Look for signs like incorrect weight, unusual colors, or missing design elements. However, the most reliable method is to have the coin examined by a professional.