While many people focus on collectibles like old DVDs or figurines, some of the most valuable treasures could be right in your change jar. You may not realize it, but certain rare coins can be worth a lot more than their face value.
However, coin collectors are picky about the condition—uncirculated coins tend to fetch the highest prices. So, if you’re hoping to cash in, make sure those coins are in top-notch condition. Here are 14 coins that could make you some serious money!
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1. 1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint produced pennies out of steel due to a shortage of copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were accidentally made, and those are now worth a fortune. If you happen to find one, it could fetch up to $336,000. But be cautious—there are many fakes out there. A simple test is to use a magnet: if it sticks, it’s steel. If not, you might have a copper treasure!
2. 1955 Doubled Die Penny
A 1955 penny with a doubled die error is highly valuable, thanks to a misaligned die during minting. This creates a noticeable doubling of the letters and numbers on the coin. About 20,000 of these coins were circulated, primarily through vending machines. In excellent condition, this coin could be worth up to $2,700.
3. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter With Extra Leaf
A small number of Wisconsin state quarters minted in 2004 have an extra leaf on the corn stalk. Some believe it was added intentionally by a Mint worker. These rare quarters have been sold for as much as $300. The odds are higher if you’re in the Tucson, Arizona, area—around 5,000 of these quarters were found there.
4. 2009 Kew Gardens 50p Coin
This British coin was released in 2009 to mark the 250th anniversary of the Royal Botanical Gardens. Only 210,000 were minted, making it a rare find. This 50p coin, featuring the Kew Gardens Pagoda, can sell for around $313 on auction sites like eBay.
5. 2005 “In God We Rust” Kansas State Quarter
This Kansas quarter from 2005 features a minting error where grease buildup caused the “T” in “Trust” to disappear, leaving “In God We Rust.” While not an enormous payday, this coin could still bring in around $100 due to its unusual error.
6. 2000 Australian $1/10 Mule
Due to a minting mistake at the Royal Australian Mint, some $1 coins were struck using a 10-cent die, creating a hybrid known as a “mule.” These coins have a distinctive double rim on one side, and collectors are willing to pay several hundred dollars for one.
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7. 2008 Undated 20p Coin
A printing error at the Royal Mint in 2008 resulted in thousands of 20p coins being released without a date. While not the rarest find, these coins can still be worth around $100 each.
8. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally omitted their identifying mint mark on a batch of Roosevelt dimes. These coins have been found mostly around Sandusky, Ohio, and can sell for around $50 if they’re in excellent condition.
9. 1997 Double-Ear Lincoln Penny
This penny from 1997 has an unusual double-ear feature on Lincoln’s portrait, caused by a minting error. One of these coins sold for $70 on eBay, and more could still be in circulation.
10. 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter
Broadstruck errors occur when a coin is misaligned during minting, causing it to be off-center. A Connecticut state quarter from 1999 with this error could be worth around $27.
11. 2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
A 2005 nickel with a die gouge error that appears to show a buffalo being speared is a unique find. Depending on its condition, this coin can sell for anywhere from $50 to $400.
12. Roosevelt Silver Dimes and Washington Silver Quarters
Coins made before 1965 contain 90% silver, making them valuable just for their metal content. Roosevelt dimes and Washington quarters from that era can sell for several times their face value. Even worn dimes have sold for $9, and quarters for the same price.
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13. 1983 “New Pence” 2P Coin
A mistake at the Royal Mint in 1983 led to some 2-pence coins being struck with the words “New Pence” instead of “Two Pence.” These coins have become collector’s items and have sold for up to $1,256 online.
14. 2007 “Godless” Presidential Dollar Coin
In 2007, the U.S. Mint accidentally released some George Washington dollar coins without the “In God We Trust” inscription on the edge. While tens of thousands of these “Godless” coins were produced, they can still sell for around $9 or more today.
Conclusion
It’s time to stop ignoring your change jar! Any one of these coins could be hiding in there, waiting to bring you some extra cash. Just make sure to check their condition carefully—mint coins will always fetch the highest price. Happy hunting!
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.