As I go through my pocket change, I often wonder what treasures might be hiding in plain sight. Many people don’t realize that some coins, commonly found in circulation, can be quite valuable. I want to share a list of seven rare coins you might find in your everyday change that could be worth more than their face value.
Finding these rare coins can be an exciting journey for anyone interested in collecting or simply looking to make a little extra cash. If you’re already a seasoned collector and are coin roll hunting, be sure to add these to your list of coins you are looking for. If you don’t know what coin roll hunting is, check out our article on how to get started coin roll hunting after you read this!
Each coin has its own story and unique features, making the hunt for them both fun and rewarding. Knowing what to look for can open up new opportunities for collectors and casual finders alike.
1972-P Lincoln Cent (No Mint Mark, Doubled Die)
The 1972 Lincoln Cent is unique because some of them have a doubled die error. This means that the design on the coin is stamped twice, causing a blurred appearance. I find these coins fascinating because they are rare. It is estimated that only about 20,000 of these doubled-die pennies were made.
When I look at these coins, problem-free examples can be worth $150 or more. Higher-grade versions can fetch even more, making them valuable finds in circulation. Most 1972 Lincoln Cents without a mint mark are not worth much, but the doubled die variety is a special exception. If you happen to spot one, it could be a treasure in your change.
Key Identifier: Doubling visible on the date, “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Estimated Value: $150+ for circulated examples; high-grade versions can be worth significantly more.
1969-S Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)
I find the 1969-S Lincoln Cent, known as the Doubled Die Obverse, fascinating. This coin shows a distinct doubling on the date, “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The doubling angles toward the southeast, making it easier to spot. Identifying this coin can be rewarding, as it is a rare find in circulation. Many collectors seek it due to its unique features and historical significance.
Coins with this error can be worth a lot, especially in good condition. The excitement of finding one can add to the joy of coin collecting. If you happen to come across a 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse in your change, it’s worth checking closely to see if it has the striking doubling. It’s a great piece of numismatic history.
Key Identifier: Clear, strong doubling on the lettering and date, particularly toward the southeast.
Estimated Value: $10,000+ in circulated condition; pristine examples can fetch even higher prices.
1982-P Roosevelt Dime (No Mint Mark)
I find the 1982 Roosevelt Dime missing it’s Mint Mark particularly interesting. This dime, Minted in Philadelphia, is a rare example of a coin that left the Mint without its intended Mark. Only about 8,000 to 10,000 of these Dimes were made. Most of them were discovered in December 1982, with many found in places like Sandusky, Ohio.
There are two varieties of this coin: the weak strike and the strong strike. The strong strike is more valuable, selling for about $75 and up, depending on its condition. Collectors often seek out these coins due to their scarcity and unique history. If I come across a 1982 Roosevelt Dime, I always check for the missing Mint Mark, knowing its worth could be significant.
Key Identifier: Completely missing the mint mark (“P”) on the obverse (Philadelphia Mint coins should have one).
Estimated Value: $75+ for a strong strike version; higher for well-preserved specimens.
1943 Lincoln Steel Cent
Due to a copper shortage during World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies from steel coated with zinc. These coins stand out because of their silver-like appearance. While the steel cent was a temporary solution, it remains one of the most recognizable and collectible coins in American history. However, some steel cents have been mistakenly re-plated with copper, which can confuse new collectors. The 1943 Steel Cent is also known for an error in which a few were accidentally struck on copper planchets, making those variations incredibly rare and valuable.
Key Identifier: Magnetic properties and distinct silver color.
Estimated Value: <$1 for circulated coins; higher for pristine examples.
1955-P Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)
One of the most famous error coins, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent, Minted in Philadelphia, shows dramatic doubling along the date and lettering. The error was caused by a misalignment during the minting process, creating a striking and easily recognizable doubling effect.
Due to their distinct look and historical significance, they remain a favorite among coin collectors. Uncirculated examples can sell for thousands, while circulated ones still command impressive prices.
With this coin, it’s recommended you send it in for grading if you find one to have it properly authenticated. You can read our guide to coin grading to learn more. If you want to purchase a valuable error like this one, you should only purchase graded examples unless you know what to look for. You don’t want to spend thousands on a coin that just has Machine Doubling and is not an actual Doubled-Die error.
Key Identifier: Strong doubling on the date and inscriptions.
Estimated Value: $1,500+ for circulated coins, with uncirculated versions fetching much more.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf)
Some 2004 Wisconsin State Quarters minted in Denver were mistakenly struck with an extra leaf on the ear of corn, creating “High Leaf” and “Low Leaf” varieties. This was likely caused by a die gouge, making the extra leaf a highly collectible error. These quarters were primarily discovered in the Midwest, particularly in rolls obtained from banks. Over time, their value has continued to increase as more collectors recognize their rarity. Finding one in circulation is rare, but if you do, it could be worth significantly more than 25 cents.
Key Identifier: Extra leaf below or above the main corn leaf on the reverse.
Estimated Value: $50–$300, depending on the variety and condition.
1983-P Spitting Eagle Error Washington Quarter
This quarter minted in Philadelphia features a die-cash error on the reverse, affecting the Eagle. There is a crack running directly underneath the eagle’s beak. Errors like this happen due to the two dies (the Obverse Die and Reverse Die) striking each other without a planchet in between. The crack is quite obvious and even more so under magnification. The 1983 Splitting Eagle Error is one of the most popular errors in the Washington series, making it an exciting find for those who check their change closely. Even in circulated condition, it can fetch a premium due to its rarity. High-grade examples are particularly valuable and sought after by numismatists.
Key Identifier: A Die crack underneath the Eagles beak on the Reverse of the coin.
Estimated Value: $5-20+ in good condition.
Identifying Valuable Coins in Circulation
Rare coins can be hidden in plain sight. To improve your chances of finding them, here are some key strategies:
Spotting Mint Marks
Mint marks indicate where a coin was produced. Look for small letters near the date on U.S. coins. Here are some common mint marks:
- P – Philadelphia
- D – Denver
- S – San Francisco
- W – West Point (rarely found in circulation)
Some valuable coins lack a mint mark due to minting errors, like the 1982 Roosevelt Dime (No Mint Mark) listed above. We have a comprehensive article on Mint Marks and their overall significance you can read to learn more.
Use of Magnification Tools
A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe helps spot small details like doubling, mint mark variations, or fine errors that might otherwise go unnoticed. Proper lighting and close inspection can make a difference in identifying a rare coin. The Jewelers Loupes I personally use and recommend is located right in our store at a great price! If you want to get more in-depth or have poor vision, you can use a digital microscope, I personally use an Elikliv EDM9 Max 10.1″ HD IPS HDMI Digital Microscope.
Thank You For Reading!
Everyday pocket change can hold rare coins just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, keeping an eye out for these rare coins could lead to some exciting finds—and maybe even a valuable payday!
So next time you get change from a store, take a closer look. You never know what rare and valuable coins might be hiding in your pocket!
Michael D. Larsen
IT Administrator, Butterfly Rancher, Co-Owner of Coined Insights and Larsen & Co.
I’m a lifelong coin collector and former professional dealer with a deep passion for numismatics. I have a lifetime of hands-on experience handling rare and historic coins, I created Coined Insights to offer a trustworthy digital coin store, and so I can share my expert knowledge, market trends, and coin-collecting tips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, my goal is to make coin collecting more accessible and rewarding. I am also a co-owner of Larsen & Co., a web development company currently operating 3 websites all on topics I am very passionate about. Feel free to learn more on our About page!