Coins have long been treasured not just for their face value but also for their rarity, history, and unique features. While most coins in your pocket might be worth just their denomination, a few super rare coins can be worth thousands, even millions of dollars! Whether you’re a casual collector or just curious, knowing about these coins can help you spot a hidden fortune.
Here are 8 super rare coins worth a fortune that collectors everywhere dream of owning:
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
- Why it’s rare: This is believed to be the very first silver dollar ever minted by the U.S. Mint. Its historic significance and extreme rarity make it one of the most sought-after coins.
- Value: Can fetch $10 million+ at auction depending on condition.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- Why it’s rare: Although over 400,000 were minted, none were officially released due to the Gold Recall Act. Only a few survived and were legally released much later.
- Value: Sold for over $7 million in private sales.
3. 1943 Copper Penny
- Why it’s rare: Most 1943 pennies were made from steel due to wartime copper shortages. A few copper pennies were accidentally minted and are extremely rare.
- Value: Can sell for $50,000 to $1,000,000+.
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Why it’s rare: Only five of these were ever minted clandestinely and are among the rarest U.S. coins.
- Value: Each coin is worth millions, with one selling for $3 million+.
5. 1804 Silver Dollar
- Why it’s rare: Known as “The King of American Coins,” the 1804 silver dollar was actually minted decades later as diplomatic gifts, with only about 15 known examples.
- Value: Up to $4 million+.
6. 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar
- Why it’s rare: Extremely low mintage at the San Francisco Mint, with very few surviving in good condition.
- Value: Can be worth $500,000+.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
- Why it’s rare: Famous for the strong doubling on the date and inscriptions due to a minting error.
- Value: High-quality specimens fetch $1,000 to $100,000+.
8. 2007 $1 “Wide Rim” Sacagawea Dollar
- Why it’s rare: An error coin with a noticeably wider rim than usual, making it a rare collector’s item.
- Value: Typically worth $1,000+.
How to Identify Rare Coins
- Look for unusual features: doubling, missing mint marks, wrong metal compositions, or minting errors.
- Check the date and mint mark carefully.
- Use a magnifying glass to spot details invisible to the naked eye.
- Have the coin graded and authenticated by professional coin grading services.
Final Thoughts
Rare coins are fascinating windows into history, and their scarcity makes them valuable treasures for collectors. If you stumble upon any of these coins, or suspect you have an error coin or rare minting, it’s worth getting it appraised — you could be holding a fortune!