Many US coins are worth much more than you think. Coins with errors make their way into circulation and are worth a bundle to collectors. The same applies to certain varieties of dies or those made from materials not commonly used in coin production. By knowing which ones are worth much more than their face value, you can make a profit if you end up in your pocket. Here’s a look at ten coins that are worth more than their face value.
1. 1969-S Double-Die Penny
An extremely rare coin, the 1969-S dime with doubling on the heads (obverse) side everywhere except the mintmark is worth a bundle. The reason the double is not also found on the mintmark is that it was struck separately during this period, so the double die only appeared when the image of Lincoln and other details were placed.
The condition ultimately affects the value of currencies. The 1969-S double-die penny can be worth $40,000 or more if it is in particularly good condition, and some in good condition can still be worth $10,000+.
2. Extra Leaf 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
Technically, there are two versions of this coin: the high card and the low card. In both cases, an additional leaf is clearly visible on the left side of the corn piece on the tail (back) side of the coin.
There is still some debate about the value of this coin. However, if you find one, you may be able to get $200 to $300, depending on the condition.
3. Presidential dollar coin with edge lettering errors
Issued in 2007, the presidential dollar coin was intended to have lettering on the edge, which is applied after the initial minting of the coin. However, some did not have the letters. Others had letters on the edge multiple times.
Identifying these coins is easy as you can simply look at the tip to see if the inscription is applied correctly. If not, the coin can be worth between $50 and $3,000, depending on the condition and the president featured.
4. 1970-S Small Date Double-Die Penny
Another double cut dime, the small date 1970-S has a particularly faint “Liberty” on the obverse and the number “7” on the date is flush with the other numbers. Additionally, there is clear evidence of doubling, often in the section ‘In God We Trust’ or the ‘Lib’ in ‘Liberty’.
While this is not worth as much as the 1969-S double-die penny, it is still worth well over a cent. Depending on condition, it could fetch around $3,500.
5. Silver Half Dollar
Until 1970, there was silver in half dollar coins. Before 1964, half dollars were 90 percent silver, making them more valuable. Between 1965 and 1970, they were 40 percent silver, which still ensures they are worth more than their face value.
Ultimately, the value of these coins is tied to a few things. Status matters, but the current spot price of silver is the primary determinant of its value.
6. 1972 Double-Die Penny
Another obverse double-cut dime, the 1972 issue, which does not have a mintmark, exhibits incredibly strong doubling. Each element can have duplication. Also, there’s usually a tiny throttle near the “D” in “United,” though you might need a magnifying glass to see it. If you do, then the coin can be worth around $500, depending on condition.
7. 1999 Wide “AM” Penny
While the broad “AM” in “America” on the reverse of the coin appeared during three years – 1998, 1999 and 2000 – the 1999 version is the rarest of the three. It happened because the mint mistakenly used a proof die instead of the standard one.
In standard versions, “AM” is either touching or incredibly close. In the misprints, “AM” has a noticeable gap.
As for prices, they vary between $5 and $600, depending on the condition. However, even at the low prices, this is much more than a typical penny is worth.
8. Uncirculated rolls of certain state quarters
Uncirculated quarters from the US state series may be worth more than face value. While full rolls typically run $20 to $52, that’s more than face value. However, the increased value only applies to certain states.
Generally, those from Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois and Tennessee are the ones with increased prices. Just remember that they must be unreleased. Otherwise, the value is just 25 cents.
9. 1995 Double-Die Penny
In 1995, another double-sided obverse coin was released. He has a distinct doubling on “Liberty” and “In God We Trust”, often obvious enough to see at a glance.
Since this coin is newer, many are still in circulation. The price ranges between $20 and $40, depending on the condition.
10. 1982 Missing Mint Mark Dime
In 1982, the dimes were distributed to the three US mints for a mint mark before being released into circulation. However, not everyone ended up with mint marks. It is believed that the mints may have had some unpunched dies on their machines, causing the mint mark to be missing.
As with all currencies, condition affects value. However, they can earn $30 to $50 in some cases.
Do you know of other coins that are worth more than their face value? Do you have higher value coins or rarer coins to profit from? Would you like to tell others about your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tamila McDonald is a US Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the military, he spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. He now writes about personal finance and benefits programs for several financial websites.
