While certain coins can be worth a lot due to their rarity or special features, others, despite being unusual, don’t hold much value. Just because a coin looks different doesn’t mean collectors will pay top dollar for it. Here’s a list of six coins that might catch your eye, but won’t make you rich.
1. Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Finding a Lincoln Wheat Penny in your change can feel exciting since they’re no longer in circulation. These coins, minted from 1909 to 1958, are old but haven’t significantly appreciated in value. Despite their age, many are still common, often trading for less than 5 cents each in bulk.
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2. Pre-1965 Nickels
Coins minted before 1965, like dimes and quarters, are often valuable because of their silver content. But pre-1965 nickels don’t share this trait. Made mostly of copper and nickel, they don’t have the same worth as their silver counterparts. Only a few, such as nickels minted from 1941 to 1945 that contain some silver, might be worth a little more.
3. Bicentennial Quarters
The U.S. Mint released bicentennial quarters between 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the country’s 200th birthday. Though they feature a unique design, most of these coins are still worth only their face value. A few rare versions, like a 1976-S bicentennial silver quarter in top condition, have sold for high prices, but that’s the exception, not the rule.
4. Kennedy Half Dollars
Kennedy half dollars were first minted in 1964, honoring the late President John F. Kennedy. Although these coins are not commonly seen today, that doesn’t make them valuable. Most are only worth their face value, unless you have a version from 1964 to 1970, which contains some silver.
5. Eisenhower Silver Dollars
The Eisenhower dollar is another coin that can seem special due to its size and history. However, collectors consider these coins bulky and inconvenient. Because they were minted in large quantities, they haven’t become valuable. The only exceptions are proof and silver versions, which might be worth a bit more.
6. Susan B. Anthony Dollars
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The Susan B. Anthony dollar, minted between 1979 and 1981, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. Despite its historical significance, these coins haven’t gained much value. Their size and look are too similar to a quarter, leading to confusion. Most of these coins are only worth their face value, with a few exceptions fetching up to $500.
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.