5 Most Overlooked Coins That Could Be Worth a Fortune: The majority of individuals envision rare, primordial coins or coins with significant flaws when they consider valuable coins. Nevertheless, there are numerous coins that are in daily use.
These items are frequently disregarded, despite the potential for substantial financial gain. Although these coins may not be immediately apparent, their distinctive characteristics or restricted production quantities render them highly sought after by collectors.
In this article, we will investigate five of the most underappreciated coins that have the potential to be worth significantly more than their face value. We will also uncover the concealed narratives that underlie their value.
1. The 1972 Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die
One of the most frequently disregarded valuable coins is the 1972 Lincoln cent, which features a doubled die. The words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1972” are conspicuously doubled in this variation.
The doubling effect was the result of a misalignment during the minting process, which caused the die to strike the coin twice, slightly off-center in each strike.
The Reason for Its Neglected Status:
Individuals may fail to recognize this variation in their pocket change due to the subtlety of the doubling. Furthermore, the majority of individuals would not consider conducting a thorough examination of Lincoln pennies from this year, as it is a frequent occurrence.
Value:
Based on the coin’s condition and the clarity of the doubling, a 1972 doubled die penny that is well-preserved can be sold for $250 to $1,000 or more. The value of circulated examples is frequently lower, but they still command a higher price than a standard 1972 penny.
What to Look for:
Inspect the lettering and date of any 1972 pennies that you may come across. The doubling is most readily evident in the word “LIBERTY” and is frequently visible with a magnifying glass. The most valuable coins are those that exhibit minimal wear and robust doubling.
2. The 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 Roosevelt dime, which lacks a mint mark, is another common neglected coin that is worth a small fortune. In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint incorrectly produced a batch of dimes that lacked the traditional “P” mint mark, rendering them an uncommon and valuable collectible.
The Reason for Its Neglected Status:
This coin does not immediately attract attention due to its absence of a noticeable defect or prominent error, such as doubling. The 1982 no-mint-mark variant is easily overlooked in circulation due to the fact that the majority of individuals do not conduct a thorough examination of dimes.
Value:
A 1982 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark that is in excellent condition can be valued at $150 to $300, with uncirculated examples commanding even higher prices.
What to Look for:
Inspect any 1982 dimes that you encounter for the absence of a mint mark. A minuscule “P” should typically be visible above the date on dimes minted in Philadelphia. Therefore, if there is no mint mark, you may have discovered a valuable error coin.
3. The 1995 Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die
Another popular error coin that frequently goes undetected is the 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent. The words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” are prominently doubled in this doubled die variant.
Despite the fact that it is not as prominent as the 1972 doubled die penny, this error remains of considerable value to collectors.
The Reason for Its Neglected Status:
Unlike significant error coins, the 1995 doubled die is not immediately apparent, and individuals are less inclined to examine coins from the 1990s because it is a relatively recent penny.
Value:
The circulated condition of the 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent is estimated to be valued between $20 and $50. Uncirculated examples of a higher quality, particularly those that have been certified by grading services, can fetch prices exceeding $100.
What to Look for:
Check any 1995 pennies for duplication in the word “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” using a magnifying glass. Even a minor duplication can render this penny more valuable than its face value.
4. The Small Date of the 1970s Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln cent is a variant that is actively sought by many collectors, but it is frequently disregarded in circulation.
The date’s appearance is the determining factor in identifying this variety; the “7” is slightly curved and lower than that of the Large Date variety. Although both the Large Date and Small Date were manufactured in 1970, the Small Date version is considerably less prevalent.
The Reason for Its Neglected Status:
The subtle difference in date appearance is often overlooked, and the majority of individuals are unaware of it, as it is not a conspicuous error. In addition, casual collectors may overlook the “S” mint mark, which signifies that the coin was produced in San Francisco.
Value:
The value of the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln cent can range from $30 to over $2,500, contingent upon its condition. Uncirculated or high-grade coins are exceedingly valuable.
What to Look for:
Examine the date on any 1970-S pennies that you locate with great care. Contrast the date with images of the Small Date and Large Date varieties that are known. The “7” in the Small Date version is frequently described as appearing more compressed and placed lower than the “0.”
5. The 1983 Reverse Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die
A valuable error on the reverse side of the 1983 doubled die reverse Lincoln cent is the doubling of the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE CENT,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This duplicated die error is highly valuable, despite its lesser-known status.
The Reason for Its Neglected Status:
This error is located on the opposite side, which reduces its likelihood of being observed. Furthermore, the doubling on this variant is not as severe as it is on other coins, which makes it easy to overlook in circulation.
Value:
An uncirculated 1983 doubled die reverse Lincoln cent can be valued at up to $300, while circulated examples are typically worth $50 or more, contingent upon the coin’s condition.
What to Look for:
Examine the reverse side of any 1983 pennies that you encounter. Search for subtle duplication in the lettering of “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE CENT.” The most valuable coins are those that exhibit minimal wear and robust doubling.
FAQ’s
What is the reason for the high value of certain currencies that are free of significant errors?
A variety of factors, such as historical significance, low production numbers, and minting errors, can render coins valuable. The value of a coin can be significantly increased by the rarity and increased demand among collectors, which can be attributed to even minor variations or misprints.
How can I determine whether a coin has experienced doubling?
A slight, repeated image of letters or numerals is the result of doubling on a coin. Doubling can be identified by employing a microscope or magnifying lens. If uncertain, the duplication of the coin can be verified by consulting numismatic resources or having it authenticated by a grading service.
Is it advisable to sanitize coins that I believe to be valuable?
Cleaning coins is generally not recommended, as it has the potential to diminish their value. Coins in their original state are preferred by collectors and grading services. Cleaning can result in the coin losing its natural patina or leaving blemishes, which decreases its value and appeal to collectors.
Where can I obtain an appraisal for a coin that has been overlooked?
You have the option of presenting potentially valuable coins to reputable coin dealers or submitting them to a grading service such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These services provide an accurate assessment of the value of coins by authenticating and grading them.
Are coins that are neglected more likely to be discovered in circulation?
Indeed, overlooked coins are frequently discovered in circulation, particularly those that lack evident errors. Valuable discoveries may occasionally be discovered by inspecting your pocket change or coin rolls from banks.