From Pocket Change to Payday: These 5 Rare Coins Could Be Worth a Fortune
Although it's often referred to as the "hobby of kings," coin collecting doesn't discriminate between the rich and poor. While buying known rare coins can be costly, you can start collecting for little to no money.
The chances of finding a million-dollar coin in your pocket is extremely rare, but it's still worth your while to check attics and antique shops, with collectors and dealers or through buying coin rolls from the bank for coins still in circulation. Acquiring the increasingly valuable vintage coins listed here will either come from a lucky find or at an auction and only if you have millions to bid.
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Here are five rare coins that are certain to increase in value in the next five years.
1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny
Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $240,000 to $336,000
A news release from the U.S. Mint in 1999 estimated that 40 copper-alloy cents were thought to exist, but it's thought that number is closer to 20. In 1943, copper and nickel were needed for the Allied war effort, so most pennies from this era were struck in zinc-coated steel. However, a copper batch was released and can fetch between $240,000 and $336,000, according to collector websites like CoinWeek.
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $10 million
Demand for the more common 1795 Silver Dollar keeps prices high, but the first silver dollar struck by the U.S. mint one year earlier is one of the rarest and most valuable of all U.S. coins, period. This "national treasure" sold for more than $10 million in 2013.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $1.4 million
The coin is considered the holy grail of numismatic collectors because it was created in Philadelphia without the approval of the U.S. Mint and are as rare as hen's teeth. Only Buffalo nickels were meant to be produced in 1913, but apparently five Liberty designs made them through. If, for some reason, you find a sixth that can be authenticated, you'll be a new millionaire.
1955 Doubled Die Penny
Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $1,800
Most of these double dies (basically a misaligned striking of a coin, resulting in a duplicate image) from 1955 were distributed as change from cigarette vending machines. Doubling on the numbers and letters mean these are worth around $1,800 a piece.
2005-D 5C Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
Still in Circulation: Yes
Approx. Value: $150 to $450
Look closely at any 2005 Bison nickels you come across. If you find one with what looks to be a spear through the back of a buffalo, caused by a severe die break when stamping, keep it safe. While not terribly valuable compared to other coins, you should be able to get between $150 to $450 for one in decent condition (one went for $1,265 at an auction in 2010, per Invaluable). This is a good example of a recent coin that will increase in value over the next five years and a perfect starter coin for the burgeoning collector in your life.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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