Coin collecting is an interesting hobby, and sometimes it can be highly rewarding. Some coins are considered special because of their rarity and historical significance. Some of these coins are so rare that their value reaches crores of rupees. Let’s learn about some such rare coins, which may be hidden in your pocket.
9 Rare Coins
Here are some coins from professional coin grading services, which have been found to be quite valuable.
1967 Kennedy Half Dollar
Auction Record: $6,995
This particular coin is somewhat unique because it lacks a mint mark; the U.S. Mint deliberately omitted the mint mark on all circulating coins between 1965 and 1967, with the aim of discouraging coin savings and therefore hoarding. The Mint has been in production of these half-dollars since 1964, when they were designed in memory of the late President John F. Kennedy.
1925-S Lincoln Penny
Auction Record: $54,625
This San Francisco Wheat Cent is highly sought after by coin collectors because 1925-S pennies are one of the most valuable dates and mintages in the series.
1932-D Washington Quarter
Auction Record: $143,750
This commemorative quarter was produced by the U.S. Mint to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Washington’s Birthday. This particular design eventually became very familiar around the world and continued until the Mint released 50 state quarters in 1999.
1943-S Jefferson Nickel
Auction Record: $9,000
This nickel is from the war nickel, which contains silver; it was produced between 1942 and 1945. There are over 100 million mintages in circulation coins, and many have been preserved by collectors.
1909-S V.D.B. Penny
Auction Record: $168,000
This type of Lincoln penny is particularly famous because of the surprising story behind it. This coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, who kept his full name in lower case letters, as did other designers of coins of that era. Two of the letters of the phrase were changed by Mint engraver Barber himself—VDB—to represent the initials of the designer, von Baer. However, reporters from newspapers such as this one appreciated the fact that the designer was using the penny for his own advertising for free. This led to Mint employees erasing the initials from the face of the coin when the next round of coins was made. Only 484,000 VDB coins were produced.
1983 1C Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Auction Record: $7,050
This particular unique coin can fetch over $7,000 through auctions as it is considered a souvenir due to the absence of a mintmark. It is also evident that there are no markings on the front side of the coin indicating where it was minted or produced.
It is named ‘Doubled Die Reverse’ by coin enthusiasts because of the fact that the stamping tool would fall in the wrong position, causing the doubled effect. Out of 7.7 billion pennies, this particular type of mint error occurred only 5000 times in 1983.
1968 No S Roosevelt Dime
Auction Record: $40,250
This rare coin was sold for up to $40,000 in 2008. What makes this dime so special is that it was the first proof coin to come out of the Mint, struck without the inclusion of the S Mint mark. The error described was discovered by the San Francisco Mint before circulation began.
1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel
Auction Record: $281,750
Collectors consider this piece highly valuable because of the die variety, which presents the doubled 1916 date on the coin. Obviously, it is worth thousands of dollars if one finds it in any working condition. The series was designed by James Earle Fraser and was produced between 1913 and 1938.
1944-D Lincoln Penny
Auction Record: $115,000
This super rare penny was sold in six figures because only two dates come with a zinc-coated steel material. You should note that the first ones made are much more numerous in 1943, while the second one is from 1944. Because 1944 was the year of the return of copper to the Lincoln Wheat Penny, the steel version is actually quite rare. However, it is known that a mistake was made in which some 1943 steel planchets and some 1944 coins were made of steel.
There are claims that only 30 1944 steel cents are in circulation, and thus, this makes them so expensive at auction.
Conclusion
Coin collecting is an exciting hobby, and sometimes it can be highly rewarding. Discovering these rare coins shows that even a small coin can be worth a lot. So, the next time you feel a tinkling in your pocket, take a closer look – you may have a small treasure!
FAQs
Q. How do I know if I have a rare coin?
A. You can contact a coin collector or coin expert. They can examine the coins and determine their actual value. Also, information can be obtained using online resources and coin catalogs.
Q. Where can I buy rare coins?
A. Rare coins can be purchased at coin stores, online auction houses, and coin shows. However, be cautious when purchasing rare coins and buy only from reputable sellers.
Q. Are all old coins rare and valuable?
A. No, not all old coins are rare or valuable. Some coins are commonly circulated and have a low value. Rarity, condition, and historical significance determine the value of the coin.
Q. Do the value of coins increase over time?
A. Yes, the value of many rare coins increases over time. It depends on many factors, such as demand, supply, and economic conditions. Therefore, coin collecting can be a long-term investment.
Q. Is coin collecting an expensive hobby?
A. The cost of coin collecting can vary depending on the individual’s budget and interest. You can start with a small investment and gradually expand your collection.