In the world of coin collecting, there are certain coins that have become worth a lot more than their face value due to minting errors. These errors, whether they are mistakes in the design, metal used, or even how the coin was struck, can make an ordinary coin worth thousands or even millions of dollars. Let’s explore 12 of the most shocking mint errors that turned regular coins into priceless treasures.
1. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous mint errors in U.S. history. The error occurred when the die used to strike the penny was misaligned, causing the text and date on the front of the coin to appear twice. This “doubling” effect, especially on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” makes this penny a highly sought-after collector’s item. High-quality examples of this penny can sell for thousands of dollars.
2. 1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, pennies were made of steel to save copper for the war effort. However, a few 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets, making them very rare. These copper pennies are now worth up to $1.7 million.
3. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a rare error caused by over-polishing the die. This mistake left the buffalo on the reverse of the coin with only three legs instead of four. These nickels are highly valuable and can fetch several thousand dollars at auction.
4. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny is a rare coin missing the mintmark “D” for Denver. This error happened due to a problem with the die, and the penny is highly prized by collectors. It can be worth anywhere between $500 and $5,000 depending on its condition.
5. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Similar to the 1955 version, the 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny has a noticeable doubling error on the front, especially on the inscriptions and the date. High-grade versions of this coin are worth up to $30,000.
6. 2004 Wisconsin Quarter Extra Leaf Error
Some 2004 Wisconsin Quarters have an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side, which happened because of a die gouge. There are two types of this error: the “extra high leaf” and the “extra low leaf.” Depending on the condition, these coins can be worth anywhere from $300 to $3,000.
Coin Error Table
| Coin | Error Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | Doubled die obverse | $1,000 – $20,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | Wrong planchet | Up to $1.7 million |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Missing leg | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Penny | Missing mint mark | $500 – $5,000+ |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | Doubled die obverse | $30,000 – $100,000 |
| 2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf Quarter | Extra leaf | $300 – $3,000 |
| 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel | Die gouge | $100 – $1,000+ |
| 2007 “Godless” Dollar | Missing edge inscription | Varies by condition |
| 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent | Close “AM” | $500 – $5,000 |
| 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent | Aluminum planchet | $250,000 – $2 million |
| 1964 Peace Dollar | Limited production | Priceless |
| 2000 Sacagawea Wounded Eagle | Die gouge | $100 – $5,000 |
7. 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
A die gouge on the reverse side of the 2005-D Jefferson Nickel made it look as though the buffalo was “speared.” This unique error has made it a favorite among collectors, with values ranging from $100 to $1,000+.
8. 2007 “Godless” Presidential Dollar
Some 2007 Presidential Dollars were struck without the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the edge, giving them the nickname “Godless Dollar.” This omission makes these coins rare and valuable, with prices varying based on their condition.
9. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent is a variation where the letters “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side are closer together than intended. This die mix-up makes the coin a highly valued collectible, with prices ranging from $500 to $5,000.
10. 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent
The 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent was an experimental coin struck on aluminum instead of copper. While most were never released into circulation, some have survived and can be worth between $250,000 and $2 million.
11. 1964 Peace Dollar
Although never released into circulation, a small number of 1964 Peace Dollars were minted. These coins are extremely valuable due to their limited production, with their worth being considered priceless by collectors.
12. 2000 Sacagawea Dollar Wounded Eagle
The 2000 Sacagawea Dollar features a die gouge on the eagle’s chest that makes it look like the eagle is wounded. This error coin has become a collector’s favorite, with values ranging from $100 to $5,000 depending on its condition.
FAQ’s
How can I tell if I have a rare coin?
Look for errors like doubled text or unusual markings. If you think you have one, it’s best to consult a professional coin grader.
Are mint errors the only way to make a coin valuable?
No, rarity, age, and demand also play a huge role in a coin’s value, not just errors.
Where can I sell my valuable coins?
You can sell them at coin shops, online auction sites, or through professional collectors and dealers.