You may have heard of people making a fortune with rare coins, but you’d be surprised to learn just how valuable some ordinary-looking ones can be! In particular, there are several US coins from the 19th and 20th centuries that can fetch high prices. Classics such as pillar dollars or Carson City Morgan Dollars are highly sought-after by dedicated collectors due to their historical significance.
While these coins aren’t easily found in circulation today, any lucky individual who does stumble across them could find themselves sitting on quite a fortune! Even if they don’t look particularly special at first glance, it pays off to verify coinage authenticity before selling.
1. Spanish Colonial Pillar Dollar
The Spanish Colonial Pillar Dollar is an incredibly valuable coin, especially for US collectors! Minted between 1732 and 1821 in several countries that were formerly part of Spain, these coins feature two columns on their reverse side which represent a religious or social unity.
Depending on its condition, it can be worth anywhere from $20 to thousands if found in pristine quality. The most sought-after pillar dollar is the Mexico City minted 8 escudos piece containing 16 grams of pure gold, with around 80 known specimens available today!
2. Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars
Carson City Morgan Silver Dollars were minted in the United States from 1878 to 1893 at a branch location called “Carson City.” Collectors are highly attracted to them because they carry extra significance. Often, these rare coins can reach high prices when sold at auction.
Furthermore, there’s always an exciting demand for these particular dollars due to their age and limited mintage quantity. Experts suggest that buyers should focus mainly on high-quality conditions, as this will determine the worthiness more than any other factor, like strike or design features alone.
3. Liberty Seated Half Dimes
The Liberty Seated Half Dime is an important coin in American history. You may come across these coins at your local antique shop or coin collector’s fairs, and they can be quite valuable depending on the level of scarcity. These silver half-dimes featured a seated figure of Lady Liberty looking leftward.
She held a staff with our nation’s Capitol as its background. This made it one of the earliest United States imprints to feature this powerful woman who symbolizes freedom for all Americans, regardless of gender, race, and creed. With careful research, you might find that some rare varieties are worth more than expected, giving potential buyers solid investment opportunities when exploring their variety!
4. Buffalo Nickels with Errors or Varieties
You may be surprised to discover that Buffalo Nickels from 1913-1938 can have errors, too. They’re also hard to come by, so they tend to go for higher values than most coins of their kind. Look closely at the mintmark position, off-center strikes, or repunched dates; all of these features could add value when discovered.
Furthermore, Liberty Nickels with no cents signs on them, proof coins, will command a premium over regular nickels, as well!
5. Early American Copper Cents
You can find Early American Copper Cents from the late 1800s and early 1900s in many locations. These coins were minted with a “wreath” or “chain back.” They also come in three different sizes: large cents, half cents, and Flying Eagles. It’s important to note that these coins are becoming increasingly rare as time goes on, so it pays off to keep your eyes peeled for them!
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure all of your copper pennies have survived since they’ve been passed around through generations of people, so their condition is key when evaluating how much they’re worth. Ultimately, though, because these penny types are highly sought after by collectors, if you happen to be lucky enough to land yourself one, then get ready for an interesting ride!
6. Indian Head Pennies from the 19th Century
Indian Head Penny from the 19th century, which was minted from 1859 to 1909, is certainly one of those coins that are worth more than you initially think. Many collectors seek these coins because of their rarity and historical significance as U.S.
Currency during a period when America was going through significant changes in terms of its industrialization and urbanization drive prior to World War I threats emerging in Europe. The coin shows Lady Liberty on the front, while there’s an image depicting a wreath with “ONE CENT” written at the bottom and above it on the reverse side. These old pennies command higher prices, usually depending on quality, availability, and edition year.
7. Lincoln Wheat Cent Coins
You may think all pennies are worth the same, but Lincoln Wheat Cent Coins have a hidden value. Individuals with an eye for rare error coins in circulation could find themselves with some big bucks if they stumble upon certain errors such as tripled dies or more valuable doubled-die Error Pennies. This means when you come across one of these prized cents, it’s important to enhance your coin collection and cash out on its greater monetary value worth being auctioned by professional numismatists.
The key is to be aware of what makes them so special. Focus on details like years issued and mint marks that will increase their intrinsic values.
8. 20-cent Pieces of 1876
You should definitely keep an eye out for those 20-cent pieces of 1876, also known as the CC Liberty Seated. They’re incredibly rare and valuable due to how few were made, with mints in Carson City only producing 745 coins total! In fact, one such coin can fetch up to $20,000 or more, depending on its condition.
As a result, you’ll want to ensure that if you find one, it’s carefully preserved and stored safely until ready for sale. Also, look into having your potential treasure professionally evaluated so you get the best price possible when selling it. Prices vary immensely based on condition, after all!
9. Three-cent Pieces with Shield Reverse
For numismatists with a penchant for American currency, three-cent pieces with a shield reverse are worth checking out. These coins were first minted in 1865 and feature unique designs that draw attention to the obverse of the coin, displaying Lady Liberty. Shield reverses can be found on silver and nickel versions of three-cent pieces, ending in 1873.
They also boast rare varieties, including those struck over errors or misprinted planchets from other denominations! Collectors must pay close attention when looking at these coins, as some may contain valuable features like repunched dates, overdates, or off-metal strikings, all of which greatly increase their value.
10. Unexpected Values From Kennedy Halves
You may come across valuable coins in unexpected places, like Kennedy halves or rare coin auctions. Such coins could fetch a good deal if sold to the right person at the right time. It’s also wise to know popular mint marks for commemorative gold coins and classic US gold quarter eagles that are of significant value.
Moreover, remember that some rare dates and varieties can be worth even more than commonly circulated denominations! Keep your eyes open for all potential opportunities; you never know what kind of hidden treasure awaits around every corner!
There are many coins across the world that can be worth more than you think. From classic pillar dollars to Carson City Morgan Dollars and half dimes, these rare pieces of history can command high prices with collectors. Whether you’re looking for a great investment or just something interesting to feature in your collection, any of these ten coins could fit into Blackwell Auctions‘ selection!