Error coins are a fascinating and lucrative aspect of coin collecting. Due to minting mistakes, certain coins bear unique characteristics that can dramatically increase their value. Collectors and everyday people alike have found rare error coins in circulation, some of which are worth close to a million dollars.
Let’s explore 10 valuable error coins, including details about their unique features and how they became valuable.
Error Coins Worth Nearly $1 Million
1955 Double Die Penny
This penny became famous for its unique “double die” error, where the lettering on the coin appears doubled. It’s often spotted due to its distinct doubling in the word “Liberty” and the year “1955,” making it a sought-after treasure for collectors.
1972 Double Die Obverse Penny
The 1972 penny also has a double die error, but this one is on the obverse (front) of the coin. The doubling effect is noticeable on the words “In God We Trust” and “Liberty,” as well as the date. It’s a must-have for error coin enthusiasts.
1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny
This coin is one of the most valuable double-die errors in the penny series. Its value comes from the highly pronounced doubling of “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.” Its unique look and limited supply make it very valuable to collectors.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
The 2004 Wisconsin quarter has a unique “extra leaf” variety. Some coins appear to have an extra high or low leaf next to the corn stalk, which happened accidentally during the minting process. Both versions are rare and highly valuable to collectors.
1999 Wide “AM” Penny
This penny, minted in 1999, features an unusual spacing between the “A” and “M” in “America.” Most pennies have these letters nearly touching, but a few were minted with a noticeable gap, making them extremely valuable.
1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
A Roosevelt dime without a mint mark was a rare mistake, as these dimes typically bear a mint mark indicating where they were produced. The absence of the mint mark on the 1982 dime has led to its high value among collectors.
1995 Double Die Obverse Penny
This error penny displays doubling on the obverse, especially in “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” The clear doubling is visible without magnification, making it easier for collectors to identify and thus highly desirable.
2000 Sacagawea “Cheerios” Dollar
This dollar coin was part of a promotional giveaway with Cheerios cereal. Some of these coins have a detailed tail feather design that differentiates them from regular Sacagawea dollars, making them rare and valuable.
1990 No “S” Proof Lincoln Cent
This coin lacks the typical “S” mint mark on proof coins, indicating it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Only a limited number of these error coins were released, making them highly valuable.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S penny has two varieties: a small date and a large date. The small date version is rarer, and its unique look makes it a collector’s item with substantial value.
| Coin | Error Type | Unique Feature | Approximate Value | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 Double Die Penny | Double Die | Doubling on “Liberty” | Up to $1,500 | Rare in Circulation |
| 1972 Double Die Penny | Double Die | Doubling on “In God We Trust” | Up to $1,200 | Rarely Found |
| 2004 WI Extra Leaf Quarter | Extra Leaf | Extra High/Low Leaf | Up to $1,500 | Rarely Found |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Dime | No Mint Mark | Missing Mint Mark | Up to $1,500 | Rare |
| 1999 Wide “AM” Penny | Wide AM | Spacing Between A and M | Up to $600 | Limited Circulation |
These rare error coins continue to circulate and are often found in the unlikeliest places. Collectors and coin enthusiasts are always on the lookout, as these valuable pieces can turn ordinary pocket change into a fortune.
If you’re interested in finding one, look for any odd features on the coins in your change—one of these coins could be hiding there.
FAQs
1. What makes error coins valuable?
Error coins are valuable due to their rarity and unique characteristics, resulting from mistakes during minting. These unusual features make them highly desirable among collectors.
2. How can I identify an error coin?
Look for noticeable differences such as doubling, missing mint marks, unusual spacing in lettering, or extra details not found in standard coins. Using a magnifying glass can help spot these details.
3. Are error coins still in circulation?
Yes, many error coins remain in circulation today. While rare, they can still be found in pocket change, which is why they’re valuable.
4. How do I verify the authenticity of an error coin?
Evaluating your coin with a professional coin grading service can confirm its authenticity. Certified error coins are more trusted and often command higher prices.
5. What should I do if I find a valuable error coin?
If you find a valuable error coin, consider having it graded by a professional service and consult a coin dealer for its market value before selling.
