Many rare coins still turn up in everyday change, pocket drawers, and estate boxes. This guide lists the top 10 rare coins wanted by collectors and gives practical tips to spot and authenticate them.
Follow these short descriptions and checks so you can quickly decide whether to keep a coin, seek a professional opinion, or send it for grading. The focus is on real markers collectors watch for and realistic value ranges.
Top 10 Rare Coins Wanted by Collectors
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This Lincoln cent is sought for its initials VDB on the reverse, visible on the rim in early strike examples. Low mintage and collector demand keep values high.
- ID tips: Look for VDB initials at the bottom of the reverse. Mintmark S indicates San Francisco.
- Value range: From a few hundred dollars for worn pieces to thousands in high grade.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Only five examples are known, making this one of the rarest U.S. coins. Any claim of ownership should be rigorously verified with provenance and expert authentication.
- ID tips: Confirm design details and documented ownership chain.
- Value range: Millions at auction for verified pieces.
3. 1943 Bronze (Copper) Cent
Most 1943 cents were struck in steel. Copper examples are extremely rare and usually result from using the wrong planchet during a production change.
- ID tips: Copper color and weight near 3.11 g; magnet test should be negative.
- Value range: Can reach hundreds of thousands if genuine and authenticated.
4. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This coin shows strong doubling on the obverse lettering, especially the date and IN GOD WE TRUST. Doubling is a striking error rather than a post-strike damage.
- ID tips: Look for large, obvious doubling on the date and motto; use magnification.
- Value range: Several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on condition.
5. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The Denver-mint 1916 Mercury dime has low mintage and high collector demand. Good-condition pieces are especially prized.
- ID tips: Check for clear winged cap and D mintmark on reverse.
- Value range: Hundreds to thousands depending on grade.
6. 1804 Silver Dollar (Class I)
One of the most famous U.S. rarities, the 1804 dollar Class I pieces were actually struck in the 1830s for diplomatic sets. Authentication and provenance are essential.
- ID tips: Compare design details to verified examples; consult experts.
- Value range: Millions at auction for genuine specimens.
7. 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar
Very low mintage and few survivors make this a highly desirable silver dollar among specialist collectors.
- ID tips: Look for the S mintmark and the Seated Liberty design; condition is critical.
- Value range: High thousands to six figures for top grades.
8. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Considered one of the first U.S. silver dollars, specimens in high condition are extremely valuable to history-focused collectors.
- ID tips: Early design details and edge reeding specific to the issue.
- Value range: Hundreds of thousands to millions depending on provenance and grade.
9. 1894-S Barber Dime
Only 24 coins were minted at San Francisco in 1894, making survivors rare and sought after by Barber series collectors.
- ID tips: Small mintage, S mintmark, and Barber dime design features.
- Value range: Tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand for premium examples.
10. 1970-S Proof Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)
A proof error with significant doubling on the obverse is popular among modern-error collectors. Always verify using a trusted reference or grader.
- ID tips: Clear doubling on date and motto; proof finish (mirror-like fields).
- Value range: Hundreds to low thousands depending on severity and grade.
How to Check Your Change for Rare Coins
Always start with a visual check and a magnet test where appropriate. Use a magnifier (10x loupe) and compare to images from reputable auction houses or grading services.
- Look for mintmarks and unusual dates or errors.
- Check weight and metal color; unusual alloys can indicate rarity or error strikes.
- Document suspected finds with photos, noting both sides and any mintmarks.
- If a coin seems valuable, avoid cleaning it; cleaning can reduce value significantly.
The famous 1955 doubled die Lincoln cent was first widely identified by collectors using simple magnification and published images in collector magazines. Many valuable discoveries start with a pocket change inspection.
Authentication and Next Steps
If you find a coin that matches the descriptions above, get multiple opinions. Start with a reputable coin dealer and consider third-party grading (PCGS, NGC) for high-value items.
Keep clear, well-lit photos and a record of where the coin was found. Provenance and condition reports help when selling or insuring a rare piece.
Case Study: A Doubled Die Found in a Drawer
A hobbyist sorting old pocket change discovered a Lincoln cent with heavy doubling on the date. After posting photos to a collector forum and visiting a local dealer, the coin was confirmed as a genuine 1955 doubled die variety.
The owner submitted it for grading and received a certificate that increased buyer confidence and market value. Small precautions like not cleaning the coin preserved its grade.
Finding a rare coin in change is uncommon but possible. Use these practical checks and consult professionals when a coin appears to match one of the top 10 rare coins wanted by collectors.