If you think that the coins in your pocket are just small change, think again. Some of the most common coins in circulation today could actually make you a lot of money—if you know where to look. The U.S. Mint has issued many coins over the years that are worth far more than their face value, and some rare dimes and Bicentennial quarters are among them. In fact, these coins could be worth a staggering $75 million combined. Let’s explore these hidden treasures and what makes them so valuable.
1. 1964 Dime – The Key to the Collection
One of the most sought-after dimes is the 1964 dime, which is often confused with regular dimes from the same year. What sets this coin apart is its minting process. Some of these dimes were mistakenly struck with a different metal composition than planned, making them highly collectible. A standard 1964 dime is worth just 10 cents, but if you find one of these rare coins, it could fetch you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, depending on its condition and rarity.
Why is it so valuable?
The rarity comes from the mistaken minting of a few dimes with a different metal alloy. Instead of the usual copper-nickel blend, some dimes were accidentally made with pure silver. Silver coins are valuable due to the metal’s worth, and with the right collector, these dimes can be quite a prize.
2. 1942/1 Mercury Dime – Double Trouble
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is another rare gem in the dime collection world. This particular dime was struck with the 1941 dies instead of the intended 1942 dies. The result? A coin with two different dates on it. These types of error coins are prized among collectors, and the 1942/1 Mercury Dime is no exception.
Why is it so valuable?
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime can sell for as much as $50,000 or more in high grades. Its double-dated stamp makes it incredibly rare and desirable. The rarity of the mistake and the unique nature of the coin make it one of the top treasures in the world of coin collecting.
3. The 1964 Silver Proof Dime – A Glimmering Treasure
While most dimes from 1964 are made with a copper-nickel alloy, the 1964 Silver Proof Dime was specially minted for proof sets and made entirely out of silver. Because of its unique status, it stands out from other dimes, and collectors often pay top dollar for this silver version.
Why is it so valuable?
Silver is a precious metal, and coins made from silver are inherently worth more than their copper counterparts. The 1964 Silver Proof Dime is highly sought after for its silver content and its role in the history of coinage. If you come across one, it could be worth well over $100.
4. Bicentennial Quarters – A Celebration Coin Worth Much More
The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter was produced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence. Although millions of these quarters were minted, there are a few key variations that make them incredibly valuable. For example, the Bicentennial Quarter with a double-strike error can sell for a high price.
Why is it so valuable?
A quarter from the Bicentennial year that has an error in its design, such as the double-strike or off-center strikes, is highly collectible. These mistakes, along with the historical significance of the coin, increase their value. A regular Bicentennial Quarter is worth just 25 cents, but the rare errors could be worth thousands.
5. The 1970-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar – A Rare Find
Another valuable coin that you might overlook in your change is the 1970-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar. Minted with a special “S” mintmark, these half dollars are part of a limited proof set. Many of these coins are still in circulation, but they remain rare because they were produced in small numbers.
Why is it so valuable?
The 1970-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar is sought after for both its low mintage and its collectible nature. With only a few available on the market in excellent condition, the value of this coin can easily exceed hundreds of dollars.
6. The 1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime is another rare dime that is often overlooked. At first glance, it might look like any other dime, but it was mistakenly produced without a mintmark, which is a key feature of most U.S. coins.
Why is it so valuable?
The lack of a mintmark on the 1982 dime makes it a rarity in the coin world. Collectors are drawn to coins with errors, and this one’s unique status helps to drive its price up. A high-quality 1982 No Mintmark Roosevelt Dime could be worth upwards of $10,000.
7. The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. During the minting process, a die was damaged, causing the buffalo to appear with only three legs instead of four. The mistake made this coin one of the most valuable and sought-after in U.S. coinage history.
Why is it so valuable?
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a rare and collectible error coin. Depending on the condition, this coin can fetch tens of thousands of dollars. The rarity and the historical value make it a must-have for collectors.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent – An Error of Magnitude
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The coin features a significant double-strike error where the image of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse appears to be doubled. This type of error is extremely rare, making the coin highly valuable.
Why is it so valuable?
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is sought after by collectors due to the rare double strike, which is easily visible to the naked eye. In excellent condition, this penny can be worth several thousand dollars.
9. The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
Another famous coin that is still in circulation today is the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent. The coin features a doubling of the inscriptions on the obverse, creating a double impression of the words “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.”
Why is it so valuable?
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins ever made by the U.S. Mint. Due to its rarity and the noticeable error, collectors are willing to pay a high price for a coin in good condition. Some of these coins can sell for over $20,000.
10. Bicentennial Quarters – Silver Proof Version
In addition to the regular Bicentennial Quarters, the U.S. Mint also issued a special Silver Proof version of the 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter. These proof coins were made from 40% silver, making them more valuable than their copper-nickel counterparts.
Why is it so valuable?
The Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarters are rare and sought after due to the silver content. Collectors looking for limited-edition coins or those who collect silver-based coins often seek these quarters. Depending on the condition, a Silver Proof Bicentennial Quarter could be worth several hundred dollars.