Many people don’t realize that some coins still in circulation are worth more than $800,000. These rare coins are often highly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity, minting errors, or unique features. If you know what to look for, you might find a hidden treasure in your spare change.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best and most valuable coins still in circulation today. If you ever come across one of these coins, you could be sitting on a fortune!
8 Rare Coins Still in Circulation That Could Make You Rich
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
One of the most famous error coins in U.S. history is the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny. During World War II, the U.S. Mint started making pennies out of steel to save copper for the war effort. However, a few pennies were mistakenly struck in copper. These rare coins are extremely valuable and can be worth over $800,000.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is known for its doubled inscription on the front (obverse) side of the coin. This error happened during the minting process, and the result is a coin with noticeable doubling of the text “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” Coins in good condition can sell for $50,000 or more.
3. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is another error coin that features doubled text on the obverse. This coin is highly sought after by collectors and can be worth as much as $35,000 if in good condition. The doubling on the inscriptions makes it easily recognizable.
4. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is another coin that shows a doubling error. While it’s not worth as much as some of the other coins on this list, it still has value, often reaching around $1,000. Collectors value this coin for its unique doubling feature.
5. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent is one of the rarest pennies from the early 20th century. Minted in Denver, this coin is valuable because of its low mintage. Coins in excellent condition can be worth $75,000 or more.
6. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the first Lincoln pennies, and it features the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the back. Because it was only minted in limited numbers, it is highly collectible. This coin can be worth around $100,000 or more, depending on its condition.
7. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is another famous error coin. It is unique because the mintmark “D” was missing from the coin, which is why it is highly valuable. Collectors pay top dollar for this rare piece, with some selling for up to $30,000.
Table: Overview of Valuable Coins
| Coin Name | Year of Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny | 1943 | $800,000+ | Copper error during wartime |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | $50,000+ | Doubled obverse |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1969 | $35,000+ | Doubled inscription |
| 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | 1972 | $1,000+ | Doubling on obverse |
| 1914-D Lincoln Cent | 1914 | $75,000+ | Minted in Denver |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | $100,000+ | Initials on coin |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Cent | 1922 | $30,000+ | Missing mintmark |
Conclusion
Finding one of these rare and valuable coins in your pocket change is an exciting possibility. Whether it’s the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny or the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, each of these coins has a unique backstory that adds to its worth. If you’re a coin collector or just casually checking your change, it’s worth knowing what to look for. You never know, you might be holding a treasure that could make you a fortune!
FAQ’s
How do I know if a coin is worth a lot of money?
To determine if a coin is valuable, look for rare features like minting errors, unusual designs, or low production numbers. Coins like the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny or 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent are great examples of valuable coins.
Are these valuable coins still in circulation?
Yes, some rare coins are still in circulation. While they are hard to find, it’s possible that you could come across one in your change. Always keep an eye out for coins with unique features like doubled inscriptions or missing mint marks.
How much are these coins worth?
The value of rare coins can range from a few thousand dollars to over $800,000, depending on their rarity and condition. For example, a 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny can be worth $800,000 or more if it’s in good shape.