1. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny – The Million-Dollar Mistake
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is one of the most legendary error coins in U.S. history. During World War II, the U.S. Mint began using zinc-coated steel for pennies to preserve copper for wartime needs. However, a small number of bronze planchets from 1942 were mistakenly used in 1943, resulting in an ultra-rare copper penny.
Fewer than 15 genuine examples have been discovered, and they’re highly coveted by collectors. One such coin sold for $1.7 million at auction in 2010, and values continue to rise. What makes this penny even more exciting is that it looks like any ordinary copper cent—unless you know what to test.
A quick way to check? Use a magnet. Steel cents will stick, but a real 1943 bronze penny will not. If you find one in an old coin jar or family collection, you might just be holding a piece of coin-collecting gold.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – The Unauthorized Rarity
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a coin shrouded in mystery and minting drama. Officially, the Liberty Head design was retired in 1912 and replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. Yet, five Liberty nickels dated 1913 somehow made it out of the U.S. Mint—likely struck unofficially by an employee.
Their origins only added to their value, making them one of the most talked-about coins in the numismatic world. Only five specimens are known, and each has a name and unique ownership story. One of them sold in 2018 for over $4.5 million, and they have appeared in movies, TV shows, and museum displays.
If you ever stumble across a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel in a family collection, do not assume it’s fake—get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC. One of these coins could turn you into an overnight millionaire.
3. 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime – The Modern Mega Rarity
This tiny coin is proof that even modern coins can be worth a fortune. In 1975, a small number of Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark at the San Francisco Mint during proof production. These coins were part of proof sets, and only two authentic examples are currently known.
One of these sold for over $450,000 at auction. The “No S” dimes are among the rarest modern U.S. coins and are usually found by collectors reviewing old mint-issued proof sets from the 1970s. What makes this coin so valuable is not just the missing mint mark, but also its extraordinary rarity in a time when millions of coins were precisely monitored.
If you’ve inherited old proof sets from the 1970s, it’s definitely worth inspecting the dimes closely—you might be one of only a handful of people holding this modern treasure.
4. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter – A Modern Error That Pays
The 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter features one of the most interesting—and profitable—modern mint errors. Some quarters from this Denver Mint issue were struck with an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side.
There are two varieties: “Extra Leaf Low” and “Extra Leaf High”, and both are believed to have been caused by accidental damage or experimentation at the mint. These variants can fetch anywhere from $300 to over $1,500 depending on condition.
While that’s not millions, it’s a huge return on a 25-cent piece! Best of all, these coins still circulate, meaning it’s possible to find one in your spare change or in coin rolls from the bank. It’s a perfect reminder that you don’t have to look far to strike silver—or in this case, numismatic gold.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar – The King of American Coins
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar is often hailed as “The King of American Coins”, and for good reason. Although dated 1804, these coins were actually struck in the 1830s for use in diplomatic gift sets. Only 15 are known to exist, and their allure has grown immensely over the centuries.
Each one has a name, a known lineage, and immense collector interest. One example sold for $3.8 million, and others have changed hands privately for even more. These coins are revered not only for their beauty but for their historical connection to the early U.S. Mint and American diplomacy.
It’s extremely unlikely to find one in casual circulation, but if you inherit old coin collections from family members or estates, it’s worth keeping an eye out. Authenticating one would catapult you into the elite world of numismatics—where rare coins are truly priceless.
FAQs
Q1: How do I know if I have a rare coin?
Start by checking the year, mint mark, and overall condition. Compare it to verified rare coin lists online or through numismatic apps. If anything seems unusual—especially errors or minting flaws—consider a professional appraisal from PCGS or NGC.
Q2: Can these coins still be found in circulation?
Yes, some modern rarities like the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter or even silver Bicentennial Quarters still appear in pocket change or coin rolls. Older rarities like the 1913 Nickel or 1804 Dollar are usually found in inherited collections.
Q3: What’s the best way to sell a rare coin?
For high-value coins, use reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers, or work with a professional coin dealer. Avoid selling to pawn shops or online marketplaces unless you’re sure of the coin’s value.
Q4: Should I clean a rare coin before selling it?
Never clean a rare coin—even light cleaning can dramatically reduce its value. Collectors and graders prefer coins in their original, untouched state.
Conclusion
These five rare coins—the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1975 No S Dime, 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter, and 1804 Draped Bust Dollar—are not just currency. They’re symbols of history, rarity, and immense value. Whether found in pocket change, inherited collections, or old proof sets, these coins could be life-changing discoveries. Always inspect your coins carefully, especially those from the early 1900s or unusual proof sets. You don’t need to be a full-time collector to stumble upon a fortune—just a curious eye and a little knowledge can go a long way.
I have a 1909 series penny. Not sure of value
Old money
I have 3 bicentennial Quarters, are they worth anything?