Did you know that some of the coins in your pocket could be worth a lot more than their face value? Coin collecting can be an exciting hobby, especially when you discover rare coins among your everyday change. In this article, we’ll explore eight rare coins that you might find in circulation and their potential value.
Why Check Your Change?
Everyday change can hide valuable coins that are no longer minted or are in limited supply. Many collectors started their journey by discovering a rare coin in their pocket. By paying attention to what you have, you might just stumble upon a valuable piece of history.
8 Rare Coins You Might Find
| Coin Name | Years Minted | Value Range | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat Penny | 1909-1958 | $1 – $10+ | Coins from certain years, especially 1909-S V.D.B., are highly sought after. |
| Buffalo Nickel | 1913-1938 | $2 – $50+ | Early minting years or those with unique errors can be valuable. |
| Mercury Dime | 1916-1945 | $3 – $40+ | The 1916 and 1942/1 (overdate) varieties are especially collectible. |
| 1943 Steel Penny | 1943 | $0.10 – $1,000+ | Mistakes in minting led to some steel pennies being struck with copper. |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | $10 – $20+ | This is the last year of minting in 90% silver; highly sought after. |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | $5 – $20+ | Only a small number were minted, making it rare among collectors. |
| 1982 D Small Date Lincoln Penny | 1982 | $5 – $100+ | This penny has a small date variation that collectors desire. |
| 1999 Delaware Quarter | 1999 | $10 – $50+ | The 1999 quarter with the “spitting horse” error is a collector’s favorite. |
How to Identify Rare Coins
1. Look for Mint Marks
Mint marks indicate where a coin was made (e.g., P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, S for San Francisco). Some coins from specific mints are more valuable due to lower production.
2. Examine the Condition
The condition of the coin affects its value. Look for coins with minimal wear and tear. Coins in uncirculated condition are worth significantly more.
3. Know Common Errors
Familiarize yourself with common minting errors, such as double strikes or off-center coins. These errors can drastically increase a coin’s value.
4. Check the Date
Coins from specific years may be rare or have special significance. Always check the date and compare it with known valuable coins.
Tips for Coin Collecting
1. Start Small
You don’t need to invest a lot of money to begin your collection. Start by searching your spare change for potential rare finds.
2. Keep Your Coins Safe
Use coin holders or albums to protect your coins from damage. Keeping them safe will help maintain their value.
3. Join a Community
Consider joining a local coin club or online forums to connect with other collectors. You can learn from their experiences and get tips on identifying rare coins.
4. Educate Yourself
Read books or watch videos about coin collecting to increase your knowledge. The more you know, the better you’ll be at spotting rare coins.
Conclusion
Collecting rare coins can be a thrilling and rewarding hobby, especially when you find valuable pieces in your everyday change. By checking your coins regularly and knowing what to look for, you might just uncover a hidden treasure. Whether you’re starting a collection or just curious, these eight rare coins could make your pocket change much more exciting!
FAQs
1. How can I tell if a coin is rare?
Look for specific dates, mint marks, and conditions. Research and compare your coins with reference guides.
2. Are rare coins still found in circulation?
Yes, many rare coins can still be found in everyday change, especially older coins and those with minting errors.
3. What should I do if I find a rare coin?
If you suspect you have a rare coin, consult a professional coin dealer for an evaluation and consider having it appraised.
4. How can I start a coin collection?
Start by searching your change and focusing on affordable coins. Use online resources and books to learn more about coin collecting.
5. Is it worth it to collect coins?
Coin collecting can be a fun hobby and a good investment. Many rare coins appreciate over time, providing potential financial benefits.