Top 10 Rare Coins Wanted by Collectors
Collectors actively hunt for rare coins because rarity, historical importance, and condition drive value. This guide names ten rare coins wanted by collectors and explains how to check if you might have one in your change.
How to use this list
Read the short description for each coin, look for key identifying features, and follow the quick tips on verification. Many of these are museum-level rarities, but a few error coins do appear in circulation.
1. 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle
Why it is rare: Most 1933 double eagles were melted due to gold recall. A few escaped and are legally restricted, making them extremely valuable.
How to spot it: Large $20 gold coin with a flying eagle and torch design. If you think you have one, do not sell privately. Contact a reputable dealer or auction house for guidance.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Why it is rare: Only five examples are known. These nickels have a rich auction history and strong collector demand.
How to spot it: Obverse features Lady Liberty with a coronet and the word LIBERTY. Provenance and certification are essential for acceptance.
3. 1804 Silver Dollar
Why it is rare: Known as the “King of American Coins,” many 1804 dollars were struck later as diplomatic gifts rather than in 1804, which adds to their story and value.
How to spot it: Large silver dollar with date 1804; certification from PCGS or NGC is required to verify authenticity.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
Why it is rare: One of the first silver dollars struck by the U.S. Mint. Early strikes in high grade are extremely scarce.
How to spot it: Early silver dollar with a flowing hair portrait of Liberty. Condition, edge lettering, and die markers determine value.
5. 1894-S Barber Dime
Why it is rare: Only a handful were minted in San Francisco. Few survive, and high-grade examples fetch large sums.
How to spot it: Small dime with Liberty head (Barber). The tiny mint mark S under the wreath is the clue; bu checking under magnification helps.
6. 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar
Why it is rare: Very small mintage and many were melted. Few examples remain, making this a top-searched rarity for collectors.
How to spot it: Large silver dollar with seated Liberty. Look for the S mint mark and consult a specialist for verification.
7. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
Why it is rare: In 1943 cents were supposed to be steel due to wartime copper shortages. A few bronze cents were mistakenly struck and are highly prized.
How to spot it: It looks like a normal Lincoln cent but is bronze (brown color) rather than steel gray. Weigh it: bronze cents weigh ~3.11 grams, steel ones are lighter and magnetic.
8. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Why it is rare: A minting error produced strong doubling on the date and lettering. It is a popular and valuable modern rarity.
How to spot it: Look for clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date digits. Photographs under good light and a magnifier help show the doubled features.
9. 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter
Why it is rare: A die break/grease error created extra leaves near the corn stalk on some state quarters. Two varieties (high leaf and low leaf) are sought by error collectors.
How to spot it: Inspect the ear of corn on the reverse; look for an extra small leaf beside the main leaves. These can appear in circulation.
10. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Why it is rare: Extremely limited number of genuine doubled die examples exist from San Francisco. They command high prices in top condition.
How to spot it: Doubling appears strongly on the obverse, especially the date and motto. Authentication by a grading service is necessary.
How to check if you have rare coins in your change
Step 1: Look for unusual color, size, or design differences. Modern error coins often differ subtly from normal issues.
Step 2: Use a magnifier and good light to check for doubled dies, extra leaves, misplaced mint marks, or wrong-metal strikes.
Step 3: Weigh suspect coins and try a magnet test for 1943 cents. Record serial numbers, mint marks, and any visible die markers.
Where to get a coin authenticated
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
- Reputable auction houses with numismatic departments.
- Local coin clubs or regional dealers for initial guidance.
Practical tips for sellers and finders
If you find a coin that may be valuable, avoid cleaning or polishing it. Cleaning can destroy collector value.
Get high-resolution photos from multiple angles and a brief provenance note if possible. Obtain multiple opinions before selling.
Some of the most valuable circulation discoveries were simple mistakes. Error coins like the 1943 bronze cent and the 1955 doubled die were found in everyday change and later sold for six- and seven-figure prices.
Real-world example
A collector visiting a flea market once found a worn Lincoln cent that looked slightly brown among steel 1943 cents. After verifying weight and non-magnetic behavior, the finder sent it to a grading service.
The coin was authenticated as a genuine 1943 bronze Lincoln cent. After auctioning, the find generated significant interest and sold for a price far above face value, showing how careful inspection can pay off.
Final checklist
- Always handle coins by the edges and use gloves if possible.
- Take clear photos and note mint marks and die features.
- Consult PCGS, NGC, or experienced dealers before any sale.
- Keep suspect coins in individual holders and avoid cleaning.
Whether you are an experienced numismatist or checking your pocket change, knowing what to look for is the first step. These top 10 rare coins wanted by collectors include ancient rarities and modern errors—both can appear unexpectedly in circulation.