10 Rare Coins You Should Start Collecting Before They Hit Million-Dollar Values!

Coin collecting, often called the “Hobby of Kings,” has grown in popularity over the years, with collectors spanning from people with little to no experience to seasoned numismatists. While owning some of the rarest coins can be expensive, anyone can start building their collection, and it doesn’t necessarily require a fortune. The excitement of finding valuable coins still circulating or tucked away in dusty corners makes the hobby even more intriguing.

The American Numismatic Association has also noted a rise in interest from younger collectors, making coin collecting an accessible and exciting hobby for people of all ages. If you’re looking to invest in rare coins or perhaps start a collection, here are ten rare coins that are expected to rise significantly in value over the next five years.

1. 1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny

Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $240,000 to $336,000

In 1943, due to wartime shortages of copper, most pennies were made using zinc-coated steel. However, a small batch of copper pennies was accidentally minted, making them extremely rare. It’s estimated that fewer than 20 of these pennies remain, and they are worth a staggering $240,000 to $336,000. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you could be holding a small fortune in your hands!

2. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar

Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $10 million

The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar is one of the rarest and most expensive coins in U.S. history. It was the first silver dollar ever struck by the U.S. Mint, and only a few remain in circulation. In 2013, one such coin sold for over $10 million, and the demand for this historic piece of American history shows no signs of slowing down.

3. 1969-S Lincoln Cent With Doubled Die Obverse

Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $126,500

This coin gained fame for its unique feature: a doubled die obverse, which means the design on the front of the coin was stamped twice, causing a blurry image. Fewer than 100 of these pennies exist, and fewer than 40 have been authenticated. A near-perfect example could fetch as much as $126,500, making it a treasure for any collector.

4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $1.4 million

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is often considered the “holy grail” of coin collecting. These five coins were made without the approval of the U.S. Mint, making them exceptionally rare. Only five were created, and if you happen to find one, you could become a millionaire, with these coins fetching upwards of $1.4 million at auction.

5. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime

Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $30 to $300

Most dimes have a mint mark indicating where they were produced, but in 1982, a few dimes were struck without one. While they’re not worth much compared to other rare coins, they’re still worth more than face value. Depending on their condition, these dimes could fetch anywhere from $30 to $300.

6. 1927-D St. Gaudens Double Eagle

Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $2.5 to 7 million

The 1927-D Double Eagle is one of the rarest gold coins of the 20th century. In 1933, President Roosevelt recalled all gold coins, and only a small number of these coins were ever produced. A well-preserved specimen, depending on its condition, can be worth between $2.5 million and $7 million.

7. 2005-D 5C Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel

Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $150 to $450

At first glance, the 2005 Spearhead Bison Jefferson Nickel might look like just another coin in your pocket. However, if you come across one with a die break that looks like a spear piercing the buffalo’s back, you could be holding a valuable piece. These coins, depending on their condition, could be worth anywhere from $150 to $450, and their value is expected to rise in the next five years.

8. 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar

Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $350,000 to $630,000

Produced at the newly established New Orleans Mint, the 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar is one of the rarest U.S. coins, with only about 20 ever made. Due to mechanical failures at the mint, these coins were produced using old dies, and their scarcity has made them extremely valuable, ranging from $350,000 to $630,000.

9. 1955 Doubled Die Penny

Still in Circulation: Yes
Approximate Value: $1,800

The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is famous for the doubled image on the coin’s date and lettering. This error occurred during the minting process and led to the creation of a unique coin. Due to its rarity, a 1955 Doubled Die Penny can be worth $1,800, with well-preserved examples fetching even higher prices.

10. 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime

Still in Circulation: No
Approximate Value: $1.8 Million

The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime is one of the most valuable dimes ever produced. Only one known specimen exists, and it is the only one with no arrows next to the date. This coin fetched $1.8 million in an auction in 2012, and it is likely to remain one of the rarest and most expensive dimes for the foreseeable future.

Conclusion

Coin collecting is more than just a hobby – it’s an investment that can offer significant returns. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these rare coins are ones to keep an eye on in the coming years. The value of these coins will likely continue to rise, making them valuable assets for collectors and investors alike. So, start looking through your change jar, visit antique shops, and don’t forget to check out your local coin dealer—you might uncover a hidden treasure!

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