Think that jar of old coins sitting in your drawer is just collecting dust?
Think again. Some of the change jingling around in your pockets—or forgotten in a shoebox—might be worth way more than face value.
Rare coins with iconic designs can fetch serious cash from collectors, sometimes up to $764 or more, depending on condition and demand.
Here’s a rundown of 10 coins you might already have (or could stumble upon) that are worth way more than you’d expect.
1. 1969-S Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)
Value: Up to $750
This penny looks ordinary until you take a closer look. The doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date makes this a holy grail for penny collectors. Only a few hundred are known to exist.
2. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
Value: $100 – $300
A minting error caused an extra “leaf” to appear on the ear of corn on this quarter. There are two versions: high leaf and low leaf, and both are hot with collectors.
3. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
Value: Up to $500
Most dimes are marked with a mint letter (like “P” or “D”), but a few from 1982 accidentally left the Philadelphia mint without any mark. Scarce and valuable!
4. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
Value: $100 – $600
The key here is identifying the “small date” variety—look for a weakly defined “7” in the date. These are sought after, especially in uncirculated condition.
5. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar + Cheerios Revers
Value: Up to $3,000 (but typical finds: ~$600–$700)
This special version of the Sacagawea dollar came as a promotional item in Cheerios cereal boxes. The eagle on the reverse has enhanced tail feathers, making it a major collectible.
6. 1999 Wide “AM” Lincoln Cent
Value: $200 – $500
In most 1999 pennies, the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are touching. But a few were minted with a wider space—a clear and valuable error.
7. 1943 Steel Penny (Copper Version)
Value: Up to $100,000+
Okay, this one’s the dream find. During WWII, pennies were made of steel. But a few copper ones slipped through. If yours sticks to a magnet, it’s steel. If not, get it checked immediately.
8. 1972 Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)
Value: Up to $300
Another doubled die, this one is easier to spot: look for clear doubling in “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date.
9. 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Value: $20 – $75 (up to $200 in mint condition)
More common than others on this list, but still valuable. Check “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for doubling. If it’s crisp, it’s worth a second look.
10. 1983-P Washington Quarter (Spitting Eagle)
Value: $50 – $150
This quirky mint error shows what looks like a line or “spit” coming from the eagle’s beak on the reverse. It’s funny, unusual, and collectable.
How to Check If Your Coin Is Valuable
- Look closely at the design, date, and mint mark.
- Use a magnifying glass or phone camera zoom to spot errors.
- Compare with online databases or coin collector forums.
- Get a professional appraisal for anything you think is rare.
Before you toss your change into the tip jar, take a closer look. These small metal treasures could be hiding in plain sight—and one lucky find could score you hundreds of dollars. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just coin-curious, it’s worth checking that piggy bank. You might just strike pocket change gold.