9 Rare American Coins That Could Be Extremely Valuable – Here’s What to Watch For

Some coins aren’t just spare change—they’re hidden treasure. Whether tucked away in old drawers, found in pocket change, or inherited from family members, rare American coins can be worth thousands—or even millions. From minting errors to limited production and historical quirks, these coins are highly sought after by collectors. If you’ve got a collection of old coins, now might be the time to take a closer look.

In this article, we’ll explore nine rare U.S. coins that could turn your next coin discovery into a serious payday.

1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American history. Only five of these coins are known to exist, and they were not even supposed to be minted that year. Despite this, a few made it out into circulation, and each has a fascinating backstory. These rare coins have sold for over $3 million apiece, making them a highly sought-after prize for collectors.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1913 Liberty Head Nickel	1913	Philadelphia	$3,000,000+

2. 1943 Copper Penny

During World War II, the U.S. Mint made pennies from steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a small number of copper blanks were mistakenly used, creating the rare 1943 Copper Penny. If you happen to find one of these in your change, it could be worth between $100,000 and $200,000, depending on its condition.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1943 Copper Penny	1943	Philadelphia	$100,000 – $200,000

3. 1955 Doubled Die Penny

The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is a famous minting error where the letters, particularly in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” appear to be stamped twice, creating a doubled effect. This error is highly visible to the naked eye, making it a favorite among collectors. Depending on its condition, this coin can fetch between $1,500 and $50,000.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1955 Doubled Die Penny	1955	Philadelphia	$1,500 – $50,000

4. 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar

The 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar is a highly coveted coin that has baffled collectors for years. Only around a dozen of these coins exist, and their exact origin remains a mystery. This rare San Francisco-minted coin can sell for over $1 million, making it a dream find for serious collectors.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar	1870	San Francisco	$1,000,000+

5. 1969-S Doubled Die Penny

The 1969-S Doubled Die Penny is another famous minting error. Like the 1955 Doubled Die Penny, the letters are doubled, particularly the word “LIBERTY.” What sets this one apart is its rarity. If the coin is in good condition, it could be worth between $10,000 and $70,000.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1969-S Doubled Die Penny	1969	San Francisco	$10,000 – $70,000

6. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel

The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a quirky and highly collectible coin. Due to a die polishing error, one of the buffalo’s legs was removed, creating a unique and rare design. This error makes the coin especially valuable, with prices ranging from $500 to $15,000 depending on the coin’s condition.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel	1937	Denver	$500 – $15,000

7. 1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is another valuable coin due to its limited mintage at the Denver Mint. It marks the debut of the popular Mercury series and remains highly prized by collectors. In excellent condition, it can be worth anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1916-D Mercury Dime	1916	Denver	$1,000 – $10,000

8. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is a rare and controversial coin. Designed by Victor David Brenner, this penny featured his initials, “VDB,” on the reverse, which caused a stir at the time. The Mint quickly pulled the coins, making it one of the rarest pennies in existence. In top condition, it can be worth thousands of dollars.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny	1909	San Francisco	Thousands (depending on grade)

9. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a legendary gold coin that remains one of the most valuable in U.S. history. With fewer than a dozen known to exist, this coin is incredibly rare, and collectors have paid millions for it. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you could be sitting on a small fortune.

Coin Name	Mint Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle	1927	Denver	Millions (depending on condition)

Summary Table

Here’s a quick overview of these nine rare U.S. coins and their potential value:

Coin Name	Year	Mint Location	Approximate Value
1913 Liberty Head Nickel	1913	Philadelphia	$3,000,000+
1943 Copper Penny	1943	Philadelphia	$100,000 – $200,000
1955 Doubled Die Penny	1955	Philadelphia	$1,500 – $50,000
1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar	1870	San Francisco	$1,000,000+
1969-S Doubled Die Penny	1969	San Francisco	$10,000 – $70,000
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel	1937	Denver	$500 – $15,000
1916-D Mercury Dime	1916	Denver	$1,000 – $10,000
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny	1909	San Francisco	Thousands (depends on grade)
1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle	1927	Denver	Millions (depends on condition)

FAQs