Some of these coins look like ordinary pocket change, but they could be worth thousands if you know what to look for.
You might be walking around with a small fortune in your pocket and not even know it. That loose change rattling around in your wallet? Some of it could be worth thousands—if you know what to look for. Rare coins slip through the cracks all the time, and plenty of people have unknowingly spent valuable ones on coffee or groceries.
Don’t be one of them! Before you hand over your spare change, make sure you’re not giving away a hidden jackpot.
1. The 1943 copper penny that looks normal but could buy you a new car.
In 1943, due to wartime metal shortages, the U.S. Mint produced pennies primarily from steel coated with zinc. However, a few were mistakenly struck in copper, making them exceptionally rare. If you find a 1943 penny that isn’t magnetic, it could be one of these valuable errors. Collectors have paid over $100,000 for such a coin. Always check your 1943 pennies with a magnet; if it doesn’t stick, you might have a treasure in your hands.
2. This 1913 Liberty Head nickel could turn your pocket change into a jackpot.
Only five of these nickels were ever minted, and they were never officially released into circulation, making them one of the most coveted coins among collectors. Each of these 1913 Liberty Head nickels is valued in the millions. While the chances of finding one are slim, it’s a reminder of the hidden gems that can exist in the world of coin collecting.
3. A 1955 doubled die penny so rare, even experts are shocked when one turns up.
This penny features a distinctive doubling of the inscriptions, especially noticeable in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This error occurred during the minting process and was not caught before release. Today, a 1955 doubled die penny can fetch between $1,500 and $15,000, depending on its condition. It’s a valuable find that could be hiding in plain sight.
4. The 2004 Wisconsin extra leaf quarter that could secretly be worth hundreds.
In 2004, some Wisconsin state quarters were minted with an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side. There are two variations: the “high leaf” and the “low leaf.” These errors have made the coins highly sought after, with some selling for $300 to $1,500, depending on their condition. It’s worth examining your state quarters for this unique feature.
5. This 1969-S doubled die penny is worth way more than one cent.
The 1969-S penny with a doubled die error displays noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions. Initially, the U.S. Secret Service mistook these for counterfeits, but they are genuine mint errors. Depending on its condition, a 1969-S doubled die penny can be worth $40,000 or more. Given their rarity, finding one would be a significant discovery for any coin enthusiast.
6. The 1982 no-mint-mark Roosevelt dime that could be worth a small fortune.
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally produced dimes without the “P” mintmark. Discovered mainly in Sandusky, Ohio, these coins are now highly sought after. Circulated examples can be worth $50-$100, while top-grade specimens fetch $300 or more. With an estimated 75,000-150,000 in existence, it’s the only business strike U.S. coin to leave the mint without its intended mintmark. Always check your 1982 dimes for this valuable error.
7. The 1922 no-D penny that collectors are desperate to get their hands on.
Most 1922 pennies were minted in Denver and bear a “D” mint mark. However, due to a die issue, some were produced without this mark. These “no-D” pennies are rare and can be quite valuable. Depending on their condition, they can sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars. It’s a unique piece of minting history that collectors highly prize.
8. The 2005 speared bison nickel that could be hiding in your pocket.
In 2005, the U.S. Mint released nickels featuring a bison design. Some of these coins have a die gouge that appears as a “spear” running through the bison’s back. These “speared bison” nickels are sought after by collectors and can be worth a premium, especially in uncirculated condition. It’s a striking error that adds a unique story to the coin.
9. The 1970-S small date penny that could be worth more than you think.
The 1970-S Lincoln penny comes in two varieties: a large date and a small date. The small date version is less common and can be identified by the shape and positioning of the numerals in the date. In high grades, these pennies can be worth more than their face value, making them a worthwhile find for collectors.
10. The 1999 wide AM penny that could be a hidden treasure.
Some 1999 Lincoln pennies have a distinctive “wide AM” spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. This variation occurred due to the use of a proof die in regular circulation coinage. These pennies can be worth a significant premium over face value, especially in higher grades. It’s a subtle difference that can pay off if spotted.