Many US coins are worth far more than you’d think. Coins with errors do make their way into circulation, and they’re worth a bundle to collectors. The same goes for certain die varieties or those made of materials not usually used for coin production. By knowing which ones are worth far more than face value, you can make a profit if one ends up in your pocket. Here’s a look at ten coins that are worth more than face value.
1. 1969-S Double-Die Penny
An exceptionally rare coin, the 1969-S penny with doubling on the heads (obverse) side everywhere but on the mint mark is worth a bundle. The reason the doubly isn’t on the mint mark as well is that it was struck separately during that time, so the doubled die only occurred when the image of Lincoln and other details were placed.
The condition does ultimately affect the value of coins. The 1969-S double-die penny can be worth $40,000 or more if it’s in particularly good condition, and some in okay condition may still be worth $10,000+.
2. Extra Leaf 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter
Technically, there are two versions of this coin: the high leaf and the low leaf. In either case, an extra leaf is clearly visible on the left side of the piece of corn on the tails (reverse) side of the coin.
There’s still a bit of a debate regarding the value of this coin. However, if you find one, you might 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 meant to have lettering on the edge, which is applied after the coin is initially struck. However, some didn’t feature the lettering. Others had edge lettering struck multiple times.
Spotting these coins is easy, as you can simply look at the edge to see if the inscription is correctly applied. If not, the coin may be worth between $50 and $3,000, depending on the condition and which president is featured.
4. 1970-S Small Date Double-Die Penny
Another double-die penny, the 1970-S small date has a particularly weak “Liberty” on the obverse side, and the number “7” in the date is level with the other numbers. Additionally, there are clear signs of doubling, often in the “In God We Trust” section or the “Lib” in “Liberty.”
While this one isn’t worth as much as the 1969-S double-die penny, it’s still got a value far above one cent. Depending on the condition, it could bring in around $3,500.
5. Silver Half Dollars
Until 1970, there was silver in half-dollar coins. Before 1964, half-dollar coins were 90 percent silver, making them the more valuable ones. Between 1965 and 1970, they were 40 percent silver, which still ensures they’re worth more than face value.
Ultimately, the value of those coins is tied to a few things. Condition matters, but the current silver spot price is the primary determiner of its worth.
6. 1972 Double-Die Penny
Another obverse-side double-die penny, the 1972 version, which doesn’t have a mint mark, shows incredibly strong doubling. Every element may feature doubling. Also, there’s typically a minuscule gouge close to the “D” in “United,” though you might need a magnifier to see it. If you do, then the coin may be worth around $500, depending on the condition.
7. 1999 Wide “AM” Penny
While the wide “AM” in “America” on the reverse side of the coin occurred during three years – 1998, 1999, and 2000 – the 1999 version is the rarer of the three. It happened because the mint used a proof die instead of the standard one by mistake.
In standard versions, the “AM” is either touching or incredibly close together. In the misprints, the “AM” has a noticeable gap.
When it comes to values, they vary between $5 and $600, depending on the condition. However, even on the low-end, that’s far more than a typical penny is worth.
8. Uncirculated Rolls of Specific State Quarters
Uncirculated quarters from the series featuring US states can be worth more than face value. While entire rolls are usually worth $20 to $52, that’s more than face value. However, the increased worth only applies to specific states.
Generally, those from Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, and Tennessee are the ones with increased values. Just remember that they have to be uncirculated. Otherwise, the value is just 25 cents.
9. 1995 Double-Die Penny
In 1995, another obverse-side double-die penny entered circulation. It has a distinct doubling on “Liberty” and “In God We Trust,” often obvious enough to be seen at a glance.
Since this coin is newer, many are still in circulation. The value ranges between $20 and $40, depending on the condition.
10. 1982 Missing Mint Mark Dime
In 1982, dimes were distributed to the three US mints for a mint mark before being sent out into circulation. However, not all of them ended up with mint marks. It’s thought that the mints may have had a few non-punched dies in their machinery, causing the lack of a mint mark.
As with all coins, the condition impacts value. However, they can net $30 to $50 in some cases.
Bonus Idea: Check Your Dimes and Quarters
Finally, always check the date on your coins. In general dimes and quarters minted before 1965 are made with silver. After 1965 dimes and quarters were made out of copper and nickel. So, if the date of your coin is 1965 or before, check the edge of the coin – it should be solid silver. Coins that are made out of copper and nickel have sides that appear to be a sandwiched silver and brass color.
Do you know of any other coins worth more than face value? Do you have any higher value coins, or have you solid rarer coins to turn a profit? Would you like to tell others about your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.
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