5 Most Overlooked Coins That Could Be Worth a Fortune

1. The 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent

The 1972 Lincoln cent with a doubled die is one of the most commonly overlooked valuable coins. This variety features noticeable doubling in the words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1972.”

The doubling effect occurred because of a misalignment during the minting process, which caused the die to strike the coin twice, slightly off-center.

Why It’s Overlooked:
Because the doubling is sometimes subtle, people might not notice this variety in their pocket change. Additionally, as it’s a common year for Lincoln pennies, most people wouldn’t think to check it closely.

Value:
A well-preserved 1972 doubled die penny can fetch anywhere from $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the coin’s condition and the clarity of the doubling. Circulated examples are generally worth less but still command more than a regular 1972 penny.

What to Look For:
Examine the lettering and date on any 1972 pennies you find. The doubling is often visible with a magnifying glass and is most apparent in the word “LIBERTY.” Coins with strong doubling and minimal wear are the most valuable.

2. The 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime

The 1982 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark is another commonly overlooked coin worth a small fortune. In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint mistakenly struck a batch of dimes without the traditional “P” mint mark, making these coins a rare and valuable collectible.

Why It’s Overlooked:
Because it lacks a prominent error like doubling or a visible flaw, this coin doesn’t immediately catch the eye. Most people don’t closely inspect dimes, so it’s easy for the 1982 no-mint-mark variety to go unnoticed in circulation.

Value:
A 1982 no-mint-mark Roosevelt dime in good condition can be worth between $150 and $300, with uncirculated examples fetching even higher prices.

What to Look For:
Check any 1982 dimes you come across for the absence of a mint mark. Typically, a small “P” should appear above the date on dimes minted in Philadelphia, so if there’s no mint mark, you might have found a valuable error coin.

3. The 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent

The 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent is another popular error coin that often goes unnoticed. This doubled die variety features noticeable doubling in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

Although not as pronounced as the 1972 doubled die penny, this error still holds significant value for collectors.

Why It’s Overlooked:
Unlike major error coins, the 1995 doubled die isn’t immediately noticeable, and because it’s a relatively recent penny, people don’t think to look closely at coins from the 1990s.

Value:
The 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent can be worth between $20 and $50 in circulated condition. Higher-grade uncirculated examples, especially those certified by grading services, can sell for over $100.

What to Look For:
Use a magnifying glass to check any 1995 pennies for doubling in the word “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Even minor doubling can make this penny more valuable than its face value.

4. The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent

The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln cent is a variety that many collectors actively seek but is often overlooked in circulation.

The key to identifying this variety lies in the date’s appearance; the “7” in the date is slightly lower and more curved than on the Large Date variety. While both the Large Date and Small Date were produced in 1970, the Small Date version is much rarer.

Why It’s Overlooked:
Most people aren’t aware of the subtle difference in date appearance, and since it’s not a glaring error, it’s easy to miss. Additionally, the “S” mint mark, indicating it was minted in San Francisco, might go unnoticed by casual collectors.

Value:
Depending on its condition, the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln cent can be worth anywhere from $30 to over $2,500. Coins in uncirculated or high grades are particularly valuable.

What to Look For:
Look closely at the date on any 1970-S pennies you find. Compare the date to known images of the Small Date and Large Date varieties. The Small Date version is often described as having a “7” that appears lower and more compressed than the “0.”

5. The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Cent

The 1983 doubled die reverse Lincoln cent is an example of a coin with a valuable error on the reverse side, featuring doubling in the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE CENT,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This doubled die error is less well-known but highly valuable.

Why It’s Overlooked:
This error is on the reverse side, making it less likely to be noticed. Additionally, the doubling on this variety is not as extreme as on other coins, which means it’s easily overlooked in circulation.

Value:
An uncirculated 1983 doubled die reverse Lincoln cent can be worth up to $300, while circulated examples are generally worth $50 or more, depending on the coin’s condition.

What to Look For:
Inspect the reverse side of any 1983 pennies you come across. Look for subtle doubling in the lettering of “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” Coins with strong doubling and minimal wear are the most valuable.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions on Overlooked Coins

1. Why are some coins without major errors worth so much?
Coins can be valuable due to a range of factors, including low production numbers, minting errors, and historical significance. Even small variations or misprints can make a coin rare and increase demand among collectors, driving up its value.

2. How do I tell if a coin has doubling?
Doubling on a coin appears as a slight, repeated image on letters or numbers. Using a magnifying glass or microscope can help you detect doubling. If in doubt, consulting numismatic resources or getting the coin authenticated by a grading service can confirm doubling.

3. Should I clean coins I suspect to be valuable?
No, cleaning coins is generally discouraged, as it can reduce their value. Collectors and grading services prefer coins in their original state. Cleaning can leave scratches or remove the natural patina, which makes the coin less attractive and less valuable to collectors.

4. Where can I get an overlooked coin appraised?
You can bring potentially valuable coins to reputable coin dealers or submit them to a grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These services authenticate and grade coins, giving you an accurate idea of their worth.

5. Are overlooked coins more likely to be found in circulation?
Yes, overlooked coins are often found in circulation, especially varieties that don’t have obvious errors. Checking your pocket change or coin rolls from banks can sometimes yield valuable finds.

6. How should I store valuable coins?
To protect their value, store valuable coins in protective holders like coin flips, capsules, or holders that are acid-free and non-PVC. For particularly valuable coins, consider using a safe or a bank deposit box to keep them secure.

7. Can I sell overlooked valuable coins online?
Yes, valuable coins can be sold online through auction sites like eBay or dedicated coin auction websites. For high-value coins, you may also consider contacting reputable auction houses or numismatic marketplaces that specialize in rare coins.

Conclusion

From doubled dies to mint mark varieties, these overlooked coins demonstrate that value can sometimes hide in plain sight.

By paying closer attention to small details and learning what to look for, anyone can increase their chances of discovering a fortune in their pocket change. Keep an eye out for these coins—you never know when a small discovery might turn into a big payday!