15 Common Coins Worth Big Money: When it comes to collecting coins, many people are unaware that some of the most common coins circulating in their pockets could be worth far more than their face value. From rare minting errors to coins that were only produced for a limited time, there are plenty of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. Below, we dive into 15 coins that could be sitting in your spare change, each worth a significant amount of money to the right collector.
1. 1943 Copper Penny
One of the most famous and sought-after coins in the U.S., the 1943 copper penny is an example of a rare minting error. During World War II, pennies were supposed to be made from steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper planchets (blanks) were accidentally left in the minting process. These rare copper pennies can fetch anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on their condition.
2. 1969-S Double Die Penny
The 1969-S Double Die penny is another coveted find. This coin features a noticeable double image on the obverse, particularly in the words “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” It’s one of the most famous errors in coin history and can be worth anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on its grade and condition.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is one of the most valuable coins in American history. Although only five were minted, it wasn’t publicly known until decades later. Today, these coins are worth millions, with one selling for over $3 million at auction. If you come across one, you’ve found a literal treasure.
4. 1982 D Washington Quarter with a D/S Mintmark
Some 1982 Washington quarters were accidentally struck with both a “D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco) mintmark, creating a rare variety. These coins are not easy to spot but can fetch anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 if you find one in good condition.
5. 1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 double die penny is another classic example of a minting error that has captivated collectors for decades. The “double die” error caused the words on the obverse to appear doubled, and a coin in excellent condition can be worth up to $20,000 or more.
6. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf
The 2004 Wisconsin State quarter is known for a rare variety where an extra leaf appears on the ear of corn on the reverse. This minting error is highly collectible, and a well-preserved specimen can be worth between $2,000 and $10,000.
7. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln cent is a relatively common coin, but the small date variety is much rarer. A coin in excellent condition can fetch up to $20,000, with the value increasing for higher grades.
8. 1999 Wide AM Reverse Penny
Some 1999 Lincoln pennies have a noticeable difference in the spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. These coins, known as the “wide AM” pennies, are quite rare and can be worth anywhere from $500 to $10,000, depending on the coin’s condition.
9. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
The 1972 doubled die penny features a noticeable doubling on the obverse, especially in the word “Liberty” and the date. This is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history, and it can be worth anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 in good condition.
10. 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with Three-Legged Variety
The 1937-D Buffalo nickel is another highly sought-after coin due to a minting error. Some of the coins were struck with only three legs on the buffalo, making them incredibly rare. Depending on the condition, these coins can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000.
11. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar
In 1964, the U.S. mint produced a limited number of Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollars. These coins were not intended for circulation, and finding one in excellent condition can be quite valuable, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
12. 1995 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Cent
Another valuable error coin from the 1990s is the 1995 double die reverse Lincoln cent. This coin features noticeable doubling in the words “E Pluribus Unum” and “United States of America” on the reverse side. In great condition, this coin can be worth upwards of $1,500.
13. 1927-D Standing Liberty Quarter
The 1927-D Standing Liberty quarter is one of the rarer dates in the series. It’s highly sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades. These quarters can be worth $1,000 to $10,000, depending on their condition.
14. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel
The 1950-D Jefferson nickel is a key date in the Jefferson series, and it is often found in rolls of nickels. Due to its low mintage, a coin in mint condition can be worth between $1,000 and $2,000.
15. 1983 Copper Penny
In 1983, the U.S. mint switched from using copper to zinc in the production of pennies. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally minted. These coins are rare and can be worth anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on their condition.
Conclusion
While it might seem like everyday pocket change, some of the most common coins you come across could be worth a lot more than you think. Whether due to minting errors, rare varieties, or limited production, these 15 coins offer exciting potential for collectors and casual coin enthusiasts alike. Before you toss that coin into your pocket jar, take a second to inspect it you might just have a hidden treasure on your hands.
