10 Most Valuable US Coins In Circulation 

In most cases, uncirculated coins are worth more money than circulated coins because of their preserved condition. But that’s not to say that there aren’t valuable coins found in circulation. If you know what characteristics to look for, you’ll be more likely to find one. Most people aren’t taking notice of key dates or mint marks; you never know what you could find in your pocket change. Here is our list of the ten most valuable US Coins found in circulation:

Eisenhower 40% Silver Dollars From 1971-76

Eisenhower Silver Dollars are one of only two U.S. coins ever struck with 40% silver content. Eisenhower Dollars were issued by the U.S. Mint from 1971-1978, but only coins from 1971-1976 in BU and Proof versions had 40% silver.

These valuable silver dollars contain .3161 Troy oz. of silver content per coin. The obverse displays a left-profile portrait of President Eisenhower, who served to terms in the 1950s and guided the nation through a very prosperous decade.

The coin’s reverse was a depiction of the bald eagle landing on the moon from 1971 to 1974 and the Liberty Bell during the Bicentennial issue in 1975-1976. Both illustrations incorporated the moon as a nod to the success of Apollo 11 in 1969.

2005 Kansas State Quarters — MS68

The Kansas State  Quarters were the 34th coin released in the 50 State Quarters program on August 29, 2005. The coin’s reverse has text that reads “Kansas 1861 - 2005 - E Pluribus Unum,” referencing when the state was admitted into the Union on January 29, 1861.

The image on the reverse is a large American Bison and sunflower motif, both of which are state symbols for Kansas. All of the Statehood Quarters were clad, which means they were 75% to 80% copper, and the rest was composed of nickel. Only silver-proof sets were produced in silver.

A 2005 Kansas State Quarter graded as MS68 is more valuable because it has full original luster, a sharp strike, and no more than four contact marks or flaws. A popular error coin among coin collectors reads, “In God We Rust” instead of “In God We Trust” due to a bad die.

2004 Wisconsin State Quarters — MS67

Wisconsin State Quarters were the 30th coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program on October 25, 2004. Wisconsin was admitted into the Union in May of 1848.

The coin’s reverse features a design incorporating the head of a cow, a round of cheese, and an ear of corn because they’re major producers of this type of agriculture. There is also a banner with the word “Forward,” the state’s motto due to its drive to become a national leader.

A 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter graded MS67 is worth about $20, according to the PCGS Price Guide. Washington quarters in circulation that are certified as MS67 are valuable U.S. coins because they’re rare in that condition. These would only have the slightest distracting marks or imperfections.

2004 Wisconsin State Quarters — MS68

2004 Wisconsin State Quarters in circulation and certified MS68 are worth money because they’re even rarer. Silver coins in circulation endure much more wear and tear, so it’s difficult to find them in mint state.

Coin values for any type of coin in mint state are almost always much higher than face value, especially those in MS66 to MS68. You’re more likely to find these grades in uncirculated coins. However, it’s still possible to find these valuable coins in circulation.

A 2004-P 25C Wisconsin MS68 PCGS sold at Heritage Auctions in 2007 for an auction record of $1,495.

1996 Roosevelt Dimes

Technically, 1996 Roosevelt Dimes were not meant for circulation, but enough of them have been removed from their sets and used for spending, so it is possible to find one in your spare change.

These rare coins were issued in a limited release for coin collecting to recognize the 50th anniversary of the 1946 Roosevelt Dime series. They were actually a free bonus coin sold only with the 1996 U.S. MintUncirculated Sets.

The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime has a “W” mint mark to represent the West Point Mint. The silver coin has a mintage of just 1,457,000 pieces, which makes it scarcer than any other regular-issue business strike ever.

1965 Roosevelt Dimes

1965 is a key date for Roosevelt Dimes because it was the year the Mint stopped making the coinage out of 90% silver content. It’s also the year they stopped placing mint marks on coins to deter hoarding and coin collecting, but they were actually struck at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mint branches.

Due to the rising price of silver, they started making Roosevelt Dimes out of a clad “sandwich” of copper with two layers of an alloy on each side. The composition from there on out would be 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel.

During the transition period, some silver dimes struck in 1965 were accidentally made with the wrong materials. This caused some of the 1965 Roosevelt Dimes to be struck on a 90% silver planchet by mistake. These error coins are extremely rare, with only a few known examples.

1982 Roosevelt Dimes (No U.S. Mint Mark)

All 1982 Roosevelt Dimes should have a mint mark to show which Mint branch it was produced at. The letter “P” was stamped on coins struck at the Philadelphia facility, “D” for coins minted in Denver, and “S” on dimes minted at the San Francisco Mint branch.

However, some 1982 Roosevelt Dimes known as the “No-P” were issued from the Philadelphia Mint without a mint mark in error. One of the mint workers didn’t realize the dies being used were not punched with the “P” mint mark, but it wasn’t discovered until late in the year after being issued.

These coins are scarce and (at the time) geographically limited to a few isolated locations, mostly in Ohio. Some of these valuable coins were found at the popular amusement park Cedar Point.

1918 Buffalo Nickels

Of all the U.S. nickels, few are more well-known than the Buffalo variety. For old coins like the 1918 Buffalo Nickel, the condition is what sets it apart to coin collectors.

Three different types of Buffalo Nickels were minted every year, which makes them even more appealing when it comes to coin collecting. Finding a Buffalo Nickel in circulation that was produced a century ago in well-preserved condition would be very difficult but not impossible.

Some types are more valuable than others, and the condition is always important, but a 1918 Buffalo Nickel of any kind will be worth well over face value. The age alone makes it one of the most valuable nickels for numismatic purposes.

1969 Double-Die Pennies

The 1969 Lincoln Cent with a doubled die obverse is exceedingly rare. One reason being the Secret Service confiscated the early specimens thinking they were fakes until the U.S. Mint admitted they were genuine error coins.

1969 Double-Die Pennies do have a long history with counterfeits, so it’s crucial to have them certified by a reputable coin grading service. It’s believed that less than a hundred of the authentic 1969 double-die pennies were produced.

1948-63 Ben Franklin Half-Dollar Coins

These coins feature a side profile of Benjamin Franklin and the cracked Liberty bell on the obverse. A complete set of these half-dollar coins from 1948-1963 can be worth well over $1500.

Add Rare U.S. Coins to Your Coin Collection

At Bullion Shark, we offer a constantly evolving inventory of rare U.S. coins that includes everything from the rarestLincoln Penny to stunning gold coins.

As experienced coin dealers, we have the most valuable pennies for your coin collection and thousands of precious metals ranging from ancient coins to historical coins and more.

Source:

50 State Quarters Program | U.S. Mint

2004-D State Quarter Wisconsin PCGS MS-67 - Auction Prices | PCGS

Auction Prices Realized | PCGS

Top 10 Most Valuable U.S. Coins Found in Pocket Change | The Spruce Crafts

The United States 1982-P Roosevelt Dime | CoinWeek

FAQ

How can I accurately determine the grade of my coins without professional help?

Determining the grade of your coins without professional help can be challenging but not impossible. While professional grading services offer the most accurate assessments, collectors can start by examining key features of their coins. Look for the overall luster, the presence of any scratches or marks, and the sharpness of the strike. Coins that retain their original shine, have minimal marks, and exhibit crisp details are likely in higher grades. Comparing your coins to graded examples online or in coin grading guides can also help in making an initial assessment.

What specific characteristics should I look for to identify error coins like the 1969 Double-Die Penny or the 1965 Silver Planchet Dime?

Identifying error coins like the 1969 Double-Die Penny or the 1965 Silver Planchet Dime requires a keen eye for specific characteristics. For the 1969 Double-Die Penny, check for noticeable doubling on the obverse side, particularly in the inscriptions such as "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the date. The doubling will appear as a distinct shadow or doubling of the letters and numbers. For the 1965 Silver Planchet Dime, examine the coin's color and weight. Silver planchet dimes will have a distinct silver color compared to the clad versions and will be slightly heavier. Using a magnifying glass can help in spotting these features more clearly.

Where is the best place to sell valuable coins found in circulation?

Selling valuable coins found in circulation can be done through various channels to ensure you get the best value. Reputable coin dealers, both local and online, are a good starting point as they can offer fair prices based on current market values. Auction houses are another excellent option, especially for rare and high-value coins, as competitive bidding can drive up the price. Online platforms such as eBay can also be useful, but ensure you are aware of the platform's fees and the importance of accurately describing your coin's condition. It is advisable to get multiple offers or appraisals to ensure you are getting a fair deal.

What are the most valuable US coins currently in circulation?

Valuable US coins in circulation include the 1969-S Lincoln Cent with a doubled die obverse, 1982 Roosevelt Dime without a mint mark, 1999 Wide "AM" Lincoln Cent, 1943 Lincoln Cent struck on bronze planchets, and the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent.

How can I identify a valuable coin in my change?

To identify valuable coins, look for key dates, mint marks, errors, and high grades. Coins with unique features like doubling, missing mint marks, or unusual coloration may be worth more. Using a magnifying glass can help spot these details.

Are there specific state quarters that are valuable?

Yes, certain state quarters are valuable, especially those with errors. The 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter with the "extra leaf" error and the 2005 Kansas State Quarter with the "In God We Rust" error are notable examples.

What makes a coin valuable?

A coin's value is determined by its rarity, demand, condition, and historical significance. Coins with errors or those that were minted in limited quantities tend to be more valuable.

What is the value of a 1969-S doubled die Lincoln Cent?

The 1969-S doubled die Lincoln Cent is highly valuable, with prices ranging from $20,000 to over $100,000 depending on its condition.

Are there any valuable modern pennies?

Yes, modern pennies like the 1999 Wide "AM" Lincoln Cent and the 1982 small date copper penny are valuable due to their unique characteristics and errors.

How much is a 1982 no mint mark Roosevelt Dime worth?

The 1982 no mint mark Roosevelt Dime can be worth between $50 and $300 depending on its condition and the current market demand.

What should I do if I find a valuable coin?

If you find a valuable coin, it's best to handle it carefully to avoid damaging it. Consider getting it professionally graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC to determine its value accurately. You can then decide whether to sell it through a dealer, auction, or online marketplace.

Are error coins worth more than regular coins?

Yes, error coins are generally worth more than regular coins due to their rarity and unique features. Examples include doubled die coins, off-center strikes, and coins struck on the wrong planchet.

Where can I sell my valuable coins?

Valuable coins can be sold through coin dealers, auctions, and online platforms like eBay. It's important to research and compare offers to ensure you get the best value. Getting a professional appraisal can also help in determining the coin's market value.