Finding rare coins in your pocket change can be like discovering hidden treasures. While most coins are used for everyday transactions, some hold significant value beyond their face value. Here’s a guide to 15 rare coins that could be in your pocket change and their potential worth:
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, copper was scarce, leading to a few pennies minted in copper instead of zinc-coated steel. A genuine 1943 copper penny can fetch thousands of dollars.
1955 Double Die Penny
This penny exhibits a doubled image due to a minting error. It’s easily recognizable and can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on its condition.
1969-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
Another error coin where the doubling is visible on Lincoln’s profile. It’s rare and highly sought after by collectors.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf
Some Wisconsin quarters from 2004 feature an extra leaf on the ear of corn on the reverse side. These can sell for hundreds of dollars.
1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
Occasionally, dimes are minted without a mint mark. These are rare and valued by collectors.
2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
A minting error caused some 2005 nickels to show a spear-like object across the bison’s back. These are unusual and valuable to collectors.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
A variant of the 1970 penny has a small date, which is rarer than the large date version.
1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Another example of a doubled die error on a Lincoln penny, dating back to 1995.
1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
Special Mint Set (SMS) coins were minted with special care and are rare, especially the 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollar.
1932-1964 Silver Quarters, Dimes, and Half Dollars
Before 1965, U.S. quarters, dimes, and half dollars were made of 90% silver. These coins are valuable for their silver content.
1942-1945 Silver Nickels
During World War II, nickels were made with 35% silver due to nickel shortages. Look for the large mint mark above Monticello on the reverse side.
1972 Double Die Eisenhower Dollar
An error coin where the date and other parts of the coin are doubled, making it distinctive and valuable.
1983 Copper Penny
Some 1983 pennies were minted in copper instead of zinc-coated steel due to a mint error. These are rare and prized by collectors.
2008 Arizona State Quarter with Extra Cactus Leaf
Another state quarter error where an extra saguaro cactus leaf appears on the reverse side, increasing its value.
2009 District of Columbia Quarter with Extra Torch
Some 2009 quarters depict an extra torch on the reverse side. These are uncommon and sought after by collectors.
