10 Rare Coins Expected to Increase in Value in the Next Five Years

Coin collecting is a hobby enjoyed by people of all ages, and contrary to its reputation as the “Hobby of Kings,” it doesn’t require a royal budget to get started. In fact, many collectors begin their journey with minimal investment.

While the dream of finding a million-dollar coin in your pocket remains a rare occurrence, checking through old coin rolls, visiting antique shops, or even purchasing coins still in circulation can uncover valuable treasures. Here are 10 rare and valuable coins, some of which are still in circulation, that are certain to increase in value in the coming years.

1. 1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny

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

The 1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny is an iconic coin in the numismatic world. During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced most pennies from zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally struck, making them highly sought after today. While estimates once suggested that around 40 of these copper pennies existed, the number is now believed to be closer to 20. These rare pennies can fetch between $240,000 and $336,000, making them one of the most valuable finds for any coin collector.

2. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar

Value: $10 Million
Still in Circulation: No

The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar holds a special place in U.S. coinage history as the first silver dollar ever produced by the U.S. Mint. While the 1795 Silver Dollar is more common and still in demand, the 1794 issue is considered one of the rarest and most valuable coins in existence. In 2013, one of these coins sold for over $10 million, cementing its place as a national treasure and a collector’s holy grail.

3. 1969-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse

Value: $126,500
Still in Circulation: Yes

The 1969-S Lincoln Cent with a Doubled Die Obverse is a prized rarity due to a significant error during its production. The doubling on the date and lettering gives the coin its value, and there are fewer than 100 known examples. Only around 40 have been authenticated, making any discovery of this error a major event in the coin collecting world. A well-preserved example can be worth up to $126,500.

4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

Value: $1.4 Million
Still in Circulation: No

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a coin surrounded by mystery and controversy. It was produced without the approval of the U.S. Mint, which was only supposed to strike Buffalo nickels that year. Despite this, five Liberty Head Nickels were struck, making them extremely rare and valuable. With only five known examples in existence, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is considered one of the most coveted coins in numismatic history, with a price tag around $1.4 million.

5. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime

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

While it might not command the astronomical prices of other rarities, the 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime is a valuable find for coin enthusiasts. Most dimes are stamped with a mint mark (e.g., “P” for Philadelphia), but a small number of 1982 dimes were produced without one. Depending on the condition, these can be worth anywhere from $30 to $300, making them an accessible yet valuable addition to a growing collection.

6. 1927-D St. Gaudens Double Eagle

Value: $2.5 Million to $7 Million
Still in Circulation: No

The 1927-D St. Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the rarest U.S. gold coins. Following President Roosevelt’s recall of all gold coins in 1933, this coin was among the few to survive. With only about 180,000 in circulation before the recall, the 1927-D Double Eagle is now considered the rarest U.S. gold coin of the 20th century. The value of this coin can range from $2.5 million to $7 million, depending on its condition and rarity.

7. 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel

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

The 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel is a fascinating example of how small errors can lead to valuable discoveries. The coin features a die break that gives the illusion of a spear piercing the buffalo’s back. While not worth a fortune, a coin in good condition can fetch between $150 and $450, with rarer specimens commanding higher prices. This is an excellent example of a modern coin with potential to appreciate in value over time.

8. 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar

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

Produced at the newly established New Orleans Mint, the 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar is a rarity due to production issues and mechanical breakdowns at the Mint. Only about 20 of these coins were made, and they are considered one of the most valuable half dollars in U.S. history. Depending on the coin’s condition, it can be worth anywhere from $350,000 to $630,000, making it a prized find for serious collectors.

9. 1955 Doubled Die Penny

Value: $1,800
Still in Circulation: Yes

The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is another famous error coin that collectors seek out. The coin was struck with a misaligned die, resulting in a visible doubling of the date and other details. These errors are rare, and a well-preserved 1955 Doubled Die Penny can be worth up to $1,800. It’s one of the more accessible high-value coins for budding collectors looking to expand their collection.

10. 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime

Value: $1.8 Million
Still in Circulation: No

The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime from the Carson City Mint is one of the most valuable dimes ever produced. The coin is notable for its unique “No Arrows” design, which makes it one of the rarest dimes in existence. Only a handful of these coins were produced, and one was sold for nearly $1.8 million at auction in 2012. This rare piece of history is a must-have for any serious collector.

Conclusion: The Thrill of Coin Collecting

Whether you’re just starting your coin collection or looking to add rare and valuable coins to your portfolio, there’s always something exciting to discover in the world of numismatics. While finding a million-dollar coin in your pocket is unlikely, with careful searching and a bit of luck, you might just uncover a treasure that will appreciate in value over time. Happy collecting.

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