There’s something about a coin you don’t see very often that makes you think, “I probably shouldn’t spend this.” But being different, older, or harder to come across at the grocery store doesn’t necessarily mean a coin is valuable.
There are exceptions, of course. Rare varieties, minting errors, precious-metal versions, and coins in exceptional condition can be worth considerably more, so knowing exactly what you have matters.
Susan B. Anthony Dollars
Susan B. Anthony dollars are historically interesting and aren’t commonly seen in change anymore, which can make finding one feel like discovering a rare coin. However, large numbers were produced and saved, so most ordinary examples aren’t particularly valuable unless you have a desirable date, variety, or exceptionally well-preserved coin.
Eisenhower Dollar Coins
The large size and older appearance of Eisenhower dollars make them look like the kind of coins that should be worth considerably more than $1. Most circulated versions were made primarily from copper and nickel and aren’t especially rare, although certain collector issues containing silver can be worth more.
Sacagawea Dollars
Sacagawea dollars have been around since 2000, and their golden color and limited use in everyday transactions can make them seem much rarer than they actually are. Most circulated examples are still worth around $1, although certain errors and varieties can be considerably more collectible.
Presidential Dollar Coins
Presidential dollars were made specifically around a collectible theme, so it’s understandable that many people tucked them away rather than spending them. Most regular examples remain worth around their $1 face value, while certain mint errors and unusual varieties are what collectors are more likely to pay extra for.
Modern Lincoln Pennies
People have been tossing pennies into jars for decades, hoping something valuable might eventually be hiding among them. Most modern Lincoln cents were produced by the millions or billions and remain worth about one cent, although rare errors and varieties are important exceptions.
State Quarters
The 50 State Quarters Program turned everyday pocket change into collectibles, prompting plenty of people to save complete sets or individual designs. Because so many were produced and saved, ordinary circulated state quarters are generally still worth 25 cents, while certain errors and varieties may command a premium.
