News & Trending Collectibles

10 Rare Coins Collectors Chase That Can Fetch Hundreds

These hidden treasure coins could be worth a lot.

By Hannah Diffey

Edited by Sara Albertelli

Updated Feb. 26, 2026

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It's easy to overlook spare change, especially when you're focused on retirement savings or rising grocery bills. But some ordinary-looking coins tucked away in drawers, old purses, or inherited collections can be worth far more than face value, and even sometimes hundreds of dollars. For collectors and everyday Americans alike, finding one valuable coin could be a simple way to put extra cash in your pocket without taking on extra work.

Editor's note: Estimated market values were sourced from recent eBay sold listings and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) price guides. Values vary by condition.

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1955 doubled die Lincoln cent

Estimated market value: $2,500 to $3,000

Few coins spark as much excitement as the 1955 doubled die penny. A dramatic minting error caused noticeable doubling in the date and lettering on the front. Even well-worn examples regularly sell for several hundred dollars, while sharper specimens could exceed $1,000 in online auctions.

Collectors love this coin because the error is easy to see without magnification, making it easy to find for beginners. PCGS notes continued strong demand in recent price guide updates.

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1937-D three-legged Buffalo nickel

Estimated market value: $415 to $985

This famous error occurred when a mint worker over-polished a die, removing one of the buffalo's legs. The result is a quirky, highly collectible nickel that remains popular decades later.

Even circulated examples often sell for more than $400, while higher-grade coins could sell for nearly $1,000. Its unusual appearance and clear backstory keep it on many collectors' wish lists.

1969-S doubled die Lincoln cent

Estimated market value: $100 to $300

Another interesting doubled die penny is the 1969-S version that shows strong doubling on "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST." It's scarcer than many later doubled dies and has been carefully authenticated due to past counterfeits.

Recent certified examples in modest grades often sell in the hundreds. Its combination of visibility and rarity makes it a favorite among seasoned hobbyists.

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1921 Peace dollar

Estimated market value: $125 to $525

The first year of the Peace Dollar series had a high-relief design that proved difficult to make. Production was limited, and many coins show wear, pushing up values for attractive examples. Collectors appreciate its historical significance, marking the end of World War I. Even circulated coins frequently sell for several hundred dollars, while higher grades could be worth even more.

1914-D Lincoln cent

Estimated market value: $400 to $1,000

With a relatively low mintage compared to other early Lincoln cents, the 1914-D remains one of the key dates in the series. Many were heavily circulated, so well-preserved examples are especially desirable.

Collectors often seek this coin to complete penny sets, helping it have continued strong resale prices. Condition plays a major role in determining whether it lands closer to $400 or above $1,000.

1877 Indian Head cent

Estimated market value: $600 to $1,200

The 1877 Indian Head penny had one of the lowest mintages in the entire series. Many surviving examples show significant wear, making sharper coins far more valuable.

Because it's widely recognized as the key date for Indian Head collectors, demand remains steady. Even lower-grade specimens commonly sell for several hundred dollars today.

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1926-S Buffalo nickel

Estimated market value: $3 to $635

While millions of Buffalo nickels were minted overall, the 1926-S had a relatively small output. High-grade examples are scarce, driving prices upward for coins with strong details. Collectors completing Buffalo nickel sets frequently compete for nice examples, pushing auction prices higher.

Even circulated coins could reach several hundred dollars, depending on eye appeal. However, on the open market, a 1925-S "2 Feathers" nickel in pristine, uncirculated condition could fetch prices of up to $50,000.

1942/41 Mercury dime (overdate)

Estimated market value: $300 to $1,750

This overdate error shows traces of a 1941 date beneath the 1942 stamp. The mistake happened when a die was re-punched, creating a visible layering effect under magnification.

Because it blends historical intrigue with mint error appeal, collectors actively seek it out. Certified examples in average circulated condition often trade in the mid-hundreds.

1982 no mint mark Roosevelt dime

Estimated market value: $100 to $725

In 1982, some Philadelphia dimes were mistakenly struck without a mint mark. While millions of dimes were made, this specific error variety is scarce in higher grades.

Collectors value it as a modern rarity that could still be found in change. Those in pristine, uncirculated conditions could fetch up to $725, according to NGC Coin Explorer.

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1932-D Washington quarter

Estimated market value: $65 to $875

As one of the first Washington quarters ever minted, the 1932-D had a relatively small production run. It's a key date for collectors building a complete quarter set.

Circulated examples regularly bring several hundred dollars, and higher-grade coins could climb much higher. Its historical importance and limited supply keep it in steady demand.

Bottom line

Rare coins don't always require a fortune to buy or sell. With careful research and authentication, even a single overlooked penny or dime could lower your financial stress by bringing in hundreds of dollars.

According to the U.S. Mint's 2024 annual report, billions of coins remain in circulation, meaning valuable varieties could still be hiding in everyday change. Taking time to examine old jars, inherited collections, or estate-sale finds might uncover a small but meaningful coin that could make some extra budgeting money.

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