If you’ve ever tossed your loose coins into a jar without a second thought, you may want to take another look. A few of the coins jingling around in your pockets or stored in forgotten drawers may be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
In this post, we’re revealing 9 surprisingly valuable coins that are often overlooked. These are coins that may look common but are highly sought after by collectors. Let’s dive into your potential hidden treasures!
1. 1943 Copper Penny (Wheat Penny)
Value: Up to $250,000
During World War II, most pennies were made from steel to save copper for war production. However, a small number of 1943 pennies were mistakenly minted in copper.
If you have one, it could be worth six figures. Test it with a magnet—steel sticks, copper does not.
2. 1969-S Lincoln Penny (Double Die Obverse)
Value: $25,000 to $75,000
This cent looks like a regular 1969-S cent until you notice the heavy doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
It’s one of the most famous doubled die errors in U.S. coins, and very few have been found in circulation.
3. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf)
Price: $50 to $300
Some 2004-D Wisconsin quarters were minted with an extra leaf on the corn husk—low or high.
These tiny errors are now highly sought after and still found in circulation by people.
4. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
Price: $300 to $1,000+
Most dimes in 1982 were minted with a “P” (Philadelphia) mint mark. Few were made with no mark.
Because of the error and limited mintage, this dime is very valuable to collectors.
5. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
Value: Up to $5,000
Check for the spacing between A and M in “AMERICA”.
Some of the Lincoln cents were incorrectly minted with the reverse “Close AM” which proof coins usually bear in 1992.
6. 1970-S Small Date Penny (High 7)
Value: $3,000+
Only a few of the 1970-S pennies were struck with a “Small Date” variation, where the “7” is level with the rest of the date. If it also has a high “7”, you’ve struck gold.
Look closely—this error hides in plain sight.
7. 1999 Wide AM Penny
Value: $500 to $1,000
The opposite of the Close AM error, this penny has a wider-than-normal space between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.”
It was a proof reverse design that ended up on a regular business-strike penny—an error that collectors love.
8. 1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
Value: $250 to $1,200+
A doubling mistake, once again, this 1972 penny boasts prominent doubling on the obverse, especially in “LIBERTY” and the motto.
With well over 10 varieties known, some are rarer than others—but all are worth looking at.
9. 2005 Speared Bison Nickel
Value: $50 to $250
This coin was part of the Westward Journey series, and a mint defect created what seems to be a “spear” through the bison’s back.
Cool-looking mistakes like this are very popular with collectors, and they command a premium price.
How to Test Whether Your Coin Has Value
Don’t know if your coin has value? Just try these easy quick steps:
1. Use a Magnifying Glass
Most valuable coins do have slight differences, such as doubled letters or uneven spacing.
2. Examine the Mint Mark
Look for missing or unusual mint marks (e.g., the 1982 No-Mint Dime).
3. Look at Photos Online
PCGS or NGC websites have photo comparisons of error coins and rare finds.
4. Get Your Coin Graded
If you suspect your coin is rare, visit a local coin store or send photos to online appraisal sites.
Where to Find These Coins
Even if you are not a serious collector, there are a few smart places to search:
- Your piggy bank or change jar
- Old wallets or purses
- Garage sale boxes
- Coin collections you’ve inherited
- Coin rolls from the bank (so-called “coin roll hunting”)
You never know what you might discover!
Last Thoughts
Your very own valuable coin could be comfortably hidden in your pocket right now. These 9 unsuspecting valuable coins illustrate that ordinary change can hold impressive value. Have a closer look—you might just find your own piece of history.
Start inspecting your coins today—because one of them could be worth thousands!
FAQ’s
Q. How can I determine if a coin is worth something?
A. Begin by examining the year, mint mark, and condition. Check for mistakes or special characteristics such as doubling, missing marks, or design variations. Then research online to compare against recognized valuable coins.
Q. Are coin value guides reliable?
A. Yes, but keep in mind that coin values change. Utilize trustworthy websites such as PCGS, NGC, or CoinTrackers for current pricing.
Q. Can I still find rare coins in circulation?
A. Yes! Although unusual, numerous hobbyists and collectors have reported locating error coins and older valuable items in their change or bank rolls.