Rare coins can be more than just fascinating artifacts from the past; they can be hidden treasures worth significant amounts of money. Some rare coins still in circulation today could turn up in your spare change and potentially change your financial situation overnight.
Among these, one standout example is the Bicentennial Quarter, which has fetched prices of over $50,000 due to its rarity and minting errors. Along with this rare coin, there are a few others that you should keep an eye out for.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was released in celebration of the United States’ 200th anniversary. While most Bicentennial Quarters aren’t worth much more than face value, certain rare variations can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
Quarters with minting errors or those that were part of a special silver proof set are highly prized by collectors. In some instances, these coins have sold for over $50,000 at auctions. Check for special markings like a proof “S” mint mark or doubling on the obverse side.
1969-S Lincoln Cent Doubled Die
The 1969-S Lincoln Cent is another rare coin that could appear in everyday circulation. Known for its distinct doubled-die error, this coin can be identified by a noticeable doubling of letters and numbers on the front. Coins in excellent condition have been sold for as much as $100,000, making it one of the most valuable Lincoln Cents in circulation.
1999 Wide “AM” Penny
Another penny that could change your life is the 1999 Wide “AM” Penny. What sets this coin apart is a mistake in the spacing between the “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the reverse side.
In most pennies from this year, the letters are close together, but in this rare version, the letters are spaced farther apart. These coins can be worth several thousand dollars in top condition.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
Collectors are always on the lookout for the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent. This rare variety is distinguished by the size of the date on the front of the coin, with the “7” appearing higher than the other numbers. It’s a subtle difference, but it makes a significant impact on the coin’s value.
High-quality examples have been known to sell for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
1982 No Mint Mark Dime
Dimes are usually stamped with a mint mark indicating where they were produced, but a few rare 1982 dimes were released without this crucial detail. The absence of a mint mark significantly increases the coin’s rarity and value.
If you find one of these dimes in circulation, it could be worth up to $1,000, depending on its condition.
2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
The 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter is a rare error coin known for its “extra leaf” on the reverse side, near the depiction of corn. Two varieties exist, one with a “high leaf” and another with a “low leaf.” These coins have sold for upwards of $2,000, making them highly sought after by collectors.
| Coin Name | Year | Distinct Feature | Mint Mark | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Minting errors or silver | “S” mint mark | Up to $50,000 |
| 1969-S Lincoln Cent | 1969 | Doubled die error | “S” mint mark | Up to $100,000 |
| 1999 Wide “AM” Penny | 1999 | Wide “AM” error on reverse | “No” mint mark | Up to $5,000 |
| 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent | 1970 | Small date variety | “S” mint mark | Up to $30,000 |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Dime | 1982 | Missing mint mark | None | Up to $1,000 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter | 2004 | Extra leaf on reverse | “D” mint mark | Up to $2,000 |
READ MORE: 5 Best Valued Coins, Including the $3,000 Lincoln Penny That Could Change Your Financial Future