Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby; it’s a treasure hunt. Some coins, due to minting errors, have become exceedingly rare and valuable, fetching over $100,000 at auctions. Here are the top five error coins you should look out for:
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel for penny production to conserve copper. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in the rare 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent. Only about 10 to 15 of these coins are known to exist. One such coin sold for $372,000 at auction.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most coveted error coins in American numismatics. Only five specimens are known to exist, none officially authorized by the U.S. Mint. One of these coins fetched $3.7 million at a public auction in 2010.
3. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This penny features a prominent doubling of the date and inscriptions due to a misalignment during the minting process. The error is easily visible to the naked eye, making it highly sought after by collectors. Depending on its condition, this coin can fetch between $1,000 and $125,000.
4. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
An over-polished die at the Denver Mint led to the buffalo on the reverse side missing one of its legs. This unique error has made the coin highly desirable among collectors. In excellent condition, it can command prices up to $100,000.
5. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar / Washington Quarter Mule
This error coin features the obverse of a Washington Quarter and the reverse of a Sacagawea Dollar, a result of mismatched dies during production. Only about 20 of these coins are known to exist, with one selling for $102,000 in 2019.
Here’s a quick reference table for these valuable error coins:
| Coin | Year | Error Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent | 1943 | Copper planchet instead of steel | Up to $372,000 |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Unauthorized minting | Up to $3.7 million |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | Doubled date and inscriptions | Up to $125,000 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | Missing leg on buffalo due to die error | Up to $100,000 |
| 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar/Quarter Mule | 2000 | Mismatched obverse and reverse designs | Up to $102,000 |
FAQs
1. How can I identify a 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent?
Look for clear doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse side. The doubling is prominent and visible without magnification.
2. What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Its rarity—only five known specimens—and the mystery surrounding its unauthorized minting contribute to its high value.
3. Are error coins always valuable?
Not all error coins are valuable. Their worth depends on the rarity, demand, and prominence of the error.
4. How can I authenticate an error coin?
It’s best to consult a professional coin grading service or a reputable numismatist for authentication.
5. Where can I sell an error coin?
You can sell error coins through auctions, coin dealers, or online marketplaces specializing in numismatics.
