Top 10 Rare Coins Wanted by Collectors
Collectors chase specific rare coins for history, scarcity, and value. This guide lists ten high-interest coins, how to spot them, and practical next steps if you think you found one in your change.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (rare coin)
The 1933 Double Eagle is famous because nearly all were melted and only a few escaped. Look for a large $20 gold coin with an eagle and sunburst design and seek expert verification before moving it.
2. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar (rare coin)
One of the first U.S. silver dollars, the 1794 Flowing Hair is prized for age and low survival counts. Signs include a small, thin silver dollar with a flowing hair portrait and clear date; grading matters greatly for price.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar (rare coin)
Often called the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 dollar is a rarity mostly seen in museums and elite collections. If you own an old large silver dollar with that date, get provenance and grading before selling.
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel (rare coin)
Only five 1913 Liberty Head nickels are known, each worth millions. These are not typical finds in circulation, but understanding their look—classic Liberty head on the obverse—helps when checking old collections.
5. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent (rare coins to watch)
This Lincoln cent shows a strong doubled image on the date and inscriptions. It can appear in circulated rolls and can be worth thousands depending on condition. Look for doubling on the words IN GOD WE TRUST and the date.
6. 1943 Copper Penny (rare coins in change)
Most 1943 pennies were struck in steel due to wartime copper needs. Rare bronze 1943 pennies occasionally appear and can be very valuable. If a 1943 penny looks brown rather than steel gray, have it examined by a trusted dealer.
7. 1894-S Barber Dime (rare coins to collect)
Only a handful of 1894-S dimes survive, making it a top Barber series rarity. These are typically found only in old collections, but knowledge of the design—Liberty head on obverse—helps identify candidates.
8. 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar Proof (rare coins collectors seek)
The 1895 Morgan in proof condition is exceedingly rare and highly sought. It looks like a typical Morgan dollar but with mirrored fields and proof-like finishes. Provenance and grading determine value.
9. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent (rare coins in US cents)
The 1909-S VDB cent featured the designer’s initials on the reverse and low mintage makes it a key date. If you find an early Lincoln cent marked 1909-S with VDB, it deserves professional assessment.
10. 1877 Indian Head Cent (rare coins for pennies)
The 1877 Indian Head cent had a low mintage and is a classic rarity among 19th-century pennies. Check early Indian Head pennies for sharp dates and details; condition sharply affects value.
Some valuable coins are found in everyday change. Small mint errors, like doubled dies or wrong-metal strikes, often create the pieces collectors chase.
How to Spot Rare Coins in Your Change
Look for unusual dates, mint marks, color, and doubling on letters or numbers. Avoid cleaning or altering a coin; that can destroy value and provenance.
Simple checklist
- Check the date and mint mark under good light.
- Look for doubling, missing details, or odd metal color.
- Do not clean the coin; take clear photos instead.
- Compare with online coin databases or guides.
What To Do If You Think You Have One
If you suspect a rare coin, document it with photos and measurements. Then take the coin to a reputable coin dealer or third-party grading service for authentication.
Steps to follow
- Handle coins by the edge to avoid fingerprints.
- Photograph obverse and reverse under neutral light.
- Get a second opinion from a certified dealer or local coin club.
- Consider third-party grading (PCGS, NGC) for high-value pieces.
Real-World Example
A collector emptied a childhood jar of pennies and found a brown 1943 penny among steel ones. After photographing and taking it to a local dealer, the coin was authenticated as a 1943 bronze cent. The piece sold through a specialist auction after grading.
This case shows why careful handling and professional verification matter when you find an unusual coin.
Where to Learn More About Rare Coins
Good resources include numismatic guides, major auction house archives, and grading service websites. Local coin clubs also offer practical help for beginners and are a safe first stop for appraisal advice.
Final Tips for Collectors and Finder
Be curious but cautious. Many rare coins require authenticated provenance and grading to reach top value. Patience, proper handling, and expert verification protect both you and the coin.
Whether you inherit a collection or check your pocket change, these top 10 rare coins are ones collectors still seek. A careful check and professional advice could turn a simple find into a valuable discovery.