Coins, especially rare ones, have long been prized by collectors, and some can fetch millions of dollars at auction. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, in particular, is one such coin that can be worth an astonishing $40 million due to an error in its production.
However, this isn’t the only coin that can make a collector rich. There are other rare error coins and historically significant pieces that are worth over $999,999. Here are five legendary coins you should know about:
1. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Error)
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, and while these quarters are common, a small number have a significant error: they were struck without a mint mark.
Why It’s Valuable: The vast majority of 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were produced with the “D” mint mark (indicating they were made at the Denver Mint), but a small number were struck without a mint mark. This error makes them extraordinarily rare and highly coveted by collectors, particularly those specializing in mint error coins.
Value: In pristine condition (graded MS-67 or higher), a no mint mark 1976 Bicentennial Quarter can be worth up to $40 million. The rarity and historical significance of this coin make it a top prize in the numismatic world.
What to Look For:
- A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with no mint mark.
- The coin must be in near-perfect condition to achieve top value.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
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The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is among the most famous coins in U.S. history. It was never supposed to be made, as the U.S. Mint had already transitioned to a new design in 1913. However, five of these coins were struck by mistake.
Why It’s Valuable: Only five known examples of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel exist, and these are considered some of the most sought-after and valuable coins in the world. They were struck secretly, and no official records were kept, adding to the mystery and allure.
Value: A 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has fetched as much as $4.5 million in recent years, with some estimates suggesting that a perfect example could fetch upwards of $10 million.
What to Look For:
- The Liberty Head design with the year 1913.
- The coin is very rare, with only five known to exist.
3. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in American numismatics. Only 24 of these coins were minted at the San Francisco Mint, and they were never released into circulation.
Why It’s Valuable: The 1894-S Barber Dime is highly prized because of its extreme rarity—only a small number were struck, and very few remain in good condition. The coin’s value has continued to rise, making it one of the most coveted dimes in the world.
Value: The 1894-S Barber Dime has sold for as much as $1.9 million at auction, with some examples going for even more if in exceptional condition.
What to Look For:
- A Barber Dime with the “S” mint mark from 1894.
- The coin must be in high-quality condition for maximum value.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is widely considered to be the first official silver dollar ever minted by the U.S. Mint. These coins were produced in limited numbers, and the design is one of the earliest used by the Mint.
Why It’s Valuable: The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a historic coin and is recognized as one of the most significant in American numismatic history. With only 1,758 of these coins originally struck, and even fewer in mint condition, the rarity and historical significance of the coin make it incredibly valuable.
Value: In 2013, one of these coins was sold for $10 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold.
What to Look For:
- A Flowing Hair Silver Dollar with the year 1794.
- The coin must be in near-perfect condition for maximum value.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent is an error coin that was struck by mistake during World War II. In 1943, due to a shortage of copper, the U.S. Mint began producing pennies made of steel. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally struck in that year.
Why It’s Valuable: These rare copper pennies were not supposed to exist, and most of them were either destroyed or melted down. Only a handful of these copper Lincoln Cents survived, making them highly prized among collectors.
Value: A 1943 copper penny has been sold for as much as $1 million. Their value is largely determined by condition and the rarity of finding one in mint condition.
Also See: Rare Bicentennial Quarter Worth Nearly $50 Million USD: 4 More worth over $999,999 Gems
What to Look For:
- A 1943 penny made from copper (instead of steel).
- The coin must be in excellent condition for significant value.
| Coin Name | Mint Year | Approx. Value | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error) | 1976 | Up to $40 million | No mint mark on the 1976-D coin |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million | Only five known to exist |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | $1.9 million | Only 24 minted, extremely rare |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million | First official U.S. silver dollar, extremely rare |
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent | 1943 | $1 million | Copper penny struck by mistake during WWII |
How Do I Know If My Coin Is Valuable?
To determine the value of a coin, look for rare features such as mint errors, unique designs, or historical significance. Having the coin professionally graded by a certified numismatic expert is the best way to assess its true value.
What Is Coin Grading?
Coin grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition on a scale from 1 to 70. Coins with higher grades are in better condition and, therefore, worth more. Coins graded MS-65 or higher tend to command the highest prices at auction.
Are There Any Other Rare Coins to Look For?
Yes! Other valuable coins include the 1933 Double Eagle, 1916-D Mercury Dime, and the 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter, among others. Each of these coins is valued at thousands to millions of dollars depending on condition.