If you are a coin collector or simply have an interest in rare and valuable U.S. coins, this guide will reveal ten collectibles that have the potential to be sold for a substantial sum.
Numerous U.S. coins are sought after for their rarity, historical significance, or distinctive minting errors, and they can be sold for thousands, or even millions, of dollars.
10 Collectibles US Coins
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
One of the most renowned and sought-after coins by aficionados is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent. The San Francisco Mint produced a limited mintage of only 484,000 coins, engraved with the designer’s initials, “V.D.B.,” on the reverse, which is the reason for its rarity.
- Current Value: $800 to $2,000 (subject to condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: The reason for its value is its low mintage and its historical significance as a component of the Lincoln Cent series’ inaugural year.
2. 1943 Lincoln Penny in Bronze
Although the majority of 1943 pennies were produced from steel in order to conserve copper for World War II, a small number were inadvertently stamped on bronze planchets. Collectors hold these quarters in high regard due to their extreme rarity.
- Current Value: $100,000 to $200,000
- Why It’s Valuable: The historical context and rare minting error are the reasons why it is valuable.
3. 1971-S Eisenhower Silver Dollar (Proof)
The Eisenhower Dollar, particularly the proof version minted in San Francisco, has become a collector’s object as a result of its silver content and limited production.
- Current Value: $50 to $400 (subject to grade)
- Why It Is Valuable: The silver content and low mintage of proof versions render it desirable.
4. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The date and the inscription “In God We Trust” are prominently displayed on this coin. The error is substantial, and there are only a handful of examples in circulation, rendering it highly collectible.
- Current Value: $30,000 to $50,000
- Why It’s Valuable: A significant minting defect with a limited number of known examples.
5. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The “small date” variety of this penny from the 1970-S mintage is an uncommon find. The size of the numerals in the date is reduced in comparison to the standard issue, which has made it a favorite among error coin collectors.
- Current Value: $100 to $2,500 (subject to condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: The reason it is valuable is that it is a rare variation with a substantial price range that is contingent upon its condition.
6. 1972 Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die
The obverse of the 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent exhibits duplication, particularly in the word “Liberty” and the date. This error was the consequence of a misaligned die that occurred during the minting process.
- Current Value: $300 to $2,500 (depending on grade)
- Why It’s Valuable: The reason it is valuable is due to its limited availability in circulation and the highly conspicuous error.
7. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die)
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, which was issued to commemorate the United States’ 200th anniversary, is extremely collectible, particularly the versions with doubled die errors.
- Current Value: $100 to $500
- Why It Is Valuable: Commemorative issue with apparent minting errors.
8. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
The “S” mintmark is typically present on proof coins produced by the San Francisco Mint. Nevertheless, in 1975, a small quantity of Roosevelt dimes were produced without the “S,” resulting in an extremely rare and valuable collectible.
- Current Value: $250,000 to $350,000
- Why It Is Valuable: This proof coin is exceedingly rare due to its lack of a mintmark.
9. 1995 Obverse Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die
The obverse of this coin, which is relatively modern, features a duplication of the inscriptions “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” Although it is more prevalent than certain other duplicated die varieties, it continues to be a valuable discovery.
- Current Value: $50 to $1,000
- Why It’s Valuable: The reason it is valuable is that it is a well-known minting error that has a distinct doubling effect.
10. 1973-S Eisenhower Dollar (40% Silver)
Eisenhower dollars are not generally considered valuable; however, the 1973-S version was minted in 40% silver for proof sets, rendering it more collectible due to its limited mintage and higher silver content.
- Current Value: $15 to $100
- Why It’s Valuable: The reason it is valuable is due to its 40% silver content and the limited manufacturing of proof.
It is not only a rewarding hobby but also a potentially lucrative investment to collect U.S. coins. The coins noted here are among the most valuable collectibles that have garnered substantial sums of money at auctions. Regardless of whether you are a novice coin collector or an experienced professional, maintaining an eye out for these uncommon discoveries could lead to a substantial payout.
