Hidden Treasures: Rare Coins You Might Have in Your Pocket Change
You might be carrying a small fortune in your pocket change without even knowing it. Over the years, many rare coins have slipped into circulation due to mint errors, low mintage runs, or unique historical quirks, and these coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
One of the most famous examples is the 1943 copper penny, accidentally struck on a copper planchet instead of the steel one mandated during World War II.
With only a few known examples, these pennies have sold for over $200,000 at auction. Similarly, the 1955 doubled die Lincoln cent, with its distinctive doubled lettering on the obverse, is another valuable coin that was unknowingly circulated and still turns up today in coin rolls and change jars.
Other treasures include the 1969-S doubled die penny and the 1972 doubled die penny, both of which feature misaligned dies that created a doubled appearance on the date or inscriptions, making them highly collectible.
Beyond errors, low-mintage coins like the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial cents, especially in uncirculated condition, can command premium prices due to their unique designs and limited production.
The 1982 Roosevelt dime with no mint mark is another anomaly that collectors seek, as it was mistakenly released without its identifying mint mark, a rarity for modern coins.
Even state quarters can hold surprises, like the 2004 Wisconsin quarter with the "extra leaf" error, where an additional design element appears on the corn stalk, creating a sought-after variety.
Collectors also hunt for silver coins, such as pre-1965 dimes, quarters, and half dollars, which contain 90% silver and are worth much more than their face value. While these coins are becoming increasingly rare in circulation, they occasionally pop up in bank rolls or old collections.