Rare Coins Worth Over $800,000 Still in Circulation – Check Your Change

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Coin collecting, also known as numismatics, has fascinated people for generations – not just for its historical value, but for its financial potential. A seemingly ordinary coin in your pocket could be worth thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars, if it turns out to be one of the rare varieties still circulating today.

Some rare coins in the United States have been known to sell for upwards of $800,000, and with proper knowledge, you might just be lucky enough to find one. Here’s a closer look at some of the most valuable coins still out there – and how to identify them.

The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny

During World War II, copper was reserved for military needs, so the U.S. Mint began producing pennies using steel coated with zinc. However, by mistake, a few copper planchets were used. These error coins – known as the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny – are extremely rare. Only a few dozen are known to exist, and if you happen to come across one, it could be worth more than $800,000. One way to test it is with a magnet: if it sticks, it’s steel; if not, you might have something special.

Famous Doubled Die Pennies

Another category of valuable coins includes those with a noticeable minting error known as a doubled die. These coins show duplication in the letters and numbers, making them highly collectible.

1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent: One of the most famous error coins, with clear doubling on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If in good condition, this coin can sell for $50,000 or more.
1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent: Minted in San Francisco, it shows similar doubling and is valued at around $35,000.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse: While not as valuable as the others, this coin still holds value – usually around $1,000, depending on condition.

Historic and Low Mintage Coins

Certain coins are valuable not because of an error, but because they were produced in limited numbers or represent an important moment in minting history.

1914-D Lincoln Cent: Minted in Denver, it had a very low production run. In good condition, it can be worth up to $75,000.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: Designed by Victor David Brenner, this coin features his initials “VDB” on the reverse. Only a few were made before the initials were removed, and collectors pay upwards of $100,000 for one in pristine condition.

The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny

This coin was supposed to bear the “D” mintmark from Denver, but due to a worn die, some were released without it. The missing mintmark created a unique and highly desirable variant now valued at $30,000 or more.

What Makes These Coins Valuable?

Several factors contribute to a coin’s value:

Rarity: Fewer coins in existence increase demand.
Condition: Coins in mint or near-mint condition are significantly more valuable.
Historical significance: Coins tied to important events or errors become collector’s items.
Demand: The popularity of a particular coin among collectors boosts its market price.
Mint errors: Mistakes in the minting process often make a coin more desirable.

What to Do if You Think You’ve Found One

If you suspect you’ve found a valuable coin:

Do not clean it – cleaning may reduce its value.
Store it safely – use a protective case or holder.
Authenticate it – contact a professional coin grading service.
Research its value – use coin collector guides or online pricing sources.

Can Modern Coins Be Valuable?

Absolutely. While older coins tend to be more valuable, newer coins with mint errors or limited releases can also be worth a lot. Always check the year, mintmark, and physical details. A small mistake could mean big money.