4 Rare Coins That Could Be Hiding in Your Attic Right Now:- Many of us have jars of old coins, or maybe even an old box of change stashed away in the attic, forgotten over time. While most coins in circulation today are worth no more than their face value.
4 Rare Coins That Could Be Hiding in Your Attic Right Now
Some coins that might be lying around in your attic or passed down from previous generations could hold surprising value. From minting errors to discontinued designs, here are four rare coins that could be hiding in your attic right now—and why they’re worth a closer look.
1. The 1943 Copper Penny – A Million-Dollar Error
During World War II, the United States needed copper for ammunition and military equipment, so the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel for pennies in 1943.
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However, due to a minting error, a few pennies were mistakenly struck on copper blanks from the previous year, creating one of the most famous error coins in history: the 1943 copper penny.
Why It’s Valuable
This error is incredibly rare; only about 20 authentic 1943 copper pennies are known to exist today. Because they were struck by mistake, they are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch astonishing sums at auction.
One of these pennies sold for $1.7 million in a private sale, underscoring its value as one of the most prized American error coins.
How to Spot It
If you find a 1943 penny that appears copper instead of the usual steel, it’s worth investigating. The easiest way to tell is to check the coin’s weight: copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, while steel pennies weigh around 2.7 grams.
If you suspect you have a 1943 copper penny, consult a professional coin appraiser to verify its authenticity and condition.
2. The 1955 Doubled Die Penny – A Coin with a Double Take
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is another iconic error coin that owes its value to a misalignment in the minting process.
During production, the design was accidentally stamped twice on the same die, resulting in a distinctive “doubled” appearance on the coin’s obverse side. This error is especially visible on the date and the word “Liberty,” making it a noticeable yet rare find.
Why It’s Valuable
Unlike other coins with minor doubling, the 1955 Doubled Die Penny has a dramatic effect that’s easily seen with the naked eye.
Its striking appearance and rarity make it highly collectible. These pennies can sell for $1,000 to $2,000 in good condition, with high-grade examples going for as much as $15,000.
How to Spot It
Look at the date and the word “Liberty” on the coin under a magnifying glass. If the numbers and letters appear noticeably doubled, you could be holding a valuable 1955 Doubled Die Penny.
As with all rare coins, getting it graded and authenticated by a reputable service, like PCGS or NGC, can help maximize its value if you decide to sell.
3. The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – Another Double Die Worth Thousands
The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny is another valuable error coin that collectors dream of finding. Like the 1955 Doubled Die, this coin features noticeable doubling, but this time on coins minted in San Francisco in 1969.
The doubling on this coin can be seen on the date and the inscriptions “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.”
Why It’s Valuable
The 1969-S Doubled Die Penny is far rarer than the 1955 version, with only a small number of known specimens.
This rarity has led to high prices at auction. Depending on its condition, this coin can sell for anywhere from $10,000 to over $100,000. For collectors of American pennies, this coin is a must-have, making it one of the most expensive doubled-die pennies ever produced.
How to Spot It
If you come across a 1969 penny with an “S” mint mark and suspect doubling on the obverse, closely examine the date and the motto.
The doubling is obvious even to the naked eye but is best verified under magnification. Due to the high value of this error, it’s essential to consult a professional before attempting to sell or grade the coin.
4. The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny – An Affordable Treasure
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny is a more accessible, yet still valuable, coin that could easily be tucked away in your attic or a jar of spare change.
This doubled die error is not as rare as the 1955 or 1969 versions, but its distinctive doubling, particularly on “In God We Trust” and “Liberty,” makes it a desirable coin for collectors.
Why It’s Valuable
Though more common than the 1955 and 1969 doubled dies, the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny still commands a significant premium. Well-preserved examples can sell for around $300 to $1,000, and high-grade specimens can reach upwards of $2,500.
This coin is a perfect example of how an accessible error can still be valuable, offering collectors the excitement of finding a treasure without breaking the bank.
How to Spot It
Examine the obverse of any 1972 penny carefully, focusing on “In God We Trust” and “Liberty.” The doubling effect on this coin is more subtle than on the 1955 and 1969 versions, but it’s still visible to the naked eye.
The 1972 Doubled Die Penny is valuable enough to warrant professional grading and authentication, which can boost its price if you decide to sell.
FAQ About Rare Coins in Your Attic
Q1: How can I tell if my coin is a valuable error?
To identify an error coin, carefully examine details like the date, inscriptions, and the mint mark under a magnifying glass.
Look for obvious anomalies such as doubling in the letters or numbers, or unexpected material (like copper in 1943 pennies). Consulting an appraiser or sending your coin to a grading service like PCGS or NGC can provide definitive verification.
Q2: Are all old pennies valuable?
Not necessarily. Many old pennies, like those from the early 1900s, were minted in large quantities and don’t hold significant value.
However, certain error pennies, like the 1943 copper or doubled die pennies, are highly collectible and can be worth a fortune. Condition and rarity play a major role in determining value.
Q3: How should I store my coins to preserve their condition?
Store coins in a cool, dry place in protective holders or capsules to prevent corrosion and wear. Avoid handling them directly with your fingers; oils and dirt can damage the surface. Coin albums and airtight cases are also excellent ways to keep coins in optimal condition.
Q4: Should I get my rare coins graded?
Yes, if you believe you have a rare or valuable coin, professional grading can be beneficial. Grading services like PCGS or NGC offer authentication, which assures potential buyers of the coin’s value and quality. Grading can also increase a coin’s resale value if it is high-grade or a rare error.
Q5: Where can I sell my valuable coins?
Valuable coins can be sold through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay. For high-value coins, consider a specialized coin auction to attract serious collectors and possibly secure higher bids.
Conclusion
Rare coins like the 1943 Copper Penny, the 1955 Doubled Die Penny, the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny, and the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny are not only valuable but also serve as pieces of American history.
These coins might just be hiding in your attic, waiting to be discovered, and could yield surprising returns if authenticated and sold. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer with a forgotten jar of coins, these rare finds could be your ticket to uncovering a small fortune.
