Pocket Change Worth Your Attention: Secrets and Tips for Future Collectors

Perhaps you are far from numismatics and are not an avid collector looking for every opportunity to get the long-awaited treasures in your collection. However, we are sure that you have a little bit of curiosity, thirst for knowledge, desire to try a new hobby and learn more about the small metal circles, which attractively rattle in your wallet.

At first glance, your change may seem ordinary and unremarkable. But would you ever think that it could be hiding unique coins that would be great first items in your new collection that can bring not only aesthetic pleasure, but also be a good investment? While most of the coins we use every day are at face value, there are exceptions. 

What coins should I look for in my pocket change? Coins with errors, rare designs, early US coins or limited editions can be considerably more valuable. If you're just beginning your journey as a numismatist or collector, we're here to suggest what coins worth money and how to turn ordinary change into an exciting treasure hunt.

So, let's explain in detail what coins to look for in your change, how to recognize them and what to look out for.

Step 1: Gather All Your Change and Inspect It Carefully

Your collector's journey may begin when you stop disposing of handfuls of change after shopping and don't take it to the bank. You can collect all your change in one place, keep it in a convenient container for easy inspection.

But before you put coins in a piggy bank or spend them, scrutinize each coin carefully. You can do this in the evenings or in your free time. Pay special attention to older coins, they can often be valuable. However, even new coins like those from the American Innovation Coin Program can cost some money.

Example: 1943 Penny Coin

These pennies were minted during World War II from steel coated with zinc, as copper was needed for the war effort. Because of the unusual material, these coins have a noticeable silver color that immediately sets them apart from other pennies.

• Characteristics: Weight 2.7 g, diameter 19.05 mm.

• Design: On the obverse is Abraham Lincoln, on the reverse is a classic image of ears of wheat and the denomination “ONE CENT”.

• Why to consider: Despite their plenty in 1943, these pennies may be of interest to beginning collectors today due to their unique material and historical context. Also, take note, among the steel pennies, there is a rare copper specimen (the so-called red penny) that can be valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars based on its condition. Who knows, maybe you will be the lucky one to own it.

Step 2: Carefully Check the Coin's Issue Date and Material of Manufacture

Here you will need to have historical background and some tools. For example, knowing that pre-1965 coins can be made of silver (and therefore have a higher value) can be very helpful.

Example: 1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar

This coin is a classic example of a US half dollar minted in silver prior to 1965. The coin contains 90% silver, making it more valuable than modern coins of the same denomination. And that is why it is of particular interest to collectors. The coin is rarely seen in circulation but can still be found in change or old collections.

• Characteristics: Weight 12.5 g, diameter 30.6 mm, contains 11.25 g of pure silver.

• Design: The obverse depicts Liberty in a fluttering dress, walking towards the rising sun, symbolizing hope and progress. The reverse shows an eagle with outspread wings seated on a rock.

• Why to consider: 1942 Walking Liberty Half Dollar are valued not only for their silver content, but also for the beautiful design created by sculptor Adolph Weinman.

Trick: Check any half dollar, if it feels heavier or “rings” when dropped on a hard surface, it is silver (silver coins have a distinctive tinkling sound).

Step 3: Pay Attention to Unusual Coin Design and Minting Features

Here you need to concentrate and try to consider unusual features of coins, e.g., pattern shifts, double strikes, additional elements that should not be on the coin. Coins with obvious deviations from the standard are especially valuable.

Example: 2009 Lincoln Cent (Formative Years Double Thumb Error)

This coin is part of a series commemorating the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. However, an error was found on some coins in this series - an additional thumbprint on Lincoln's hands (double thumb error).

• Characteristics: Weight - 2.5 g, diameter - 19 mm, material - copper plated with zinc (97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper).

• Design: The obverse features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Victor David Brenner. The reverse depicts a young Lincoln sitting on a tree stump, with a book in one hand and his other hand on his knee. It is this hand that the error of a second thumbprint can sometimes be seen.

• Why to consider: Double thumb error coins are particularly valuable to collectors of minting errors. Although modern and widespread, this error coin can still be found among the common change, as not everyone pays attention to the fine details of the design. The presence of this error can significantly increase the value of the coin.

Step 4: Check Mint Marks

Look for the small letters on the coin to indicate the mint where the coin was issued. Some marks, such as the “S” for San Francisco coins, may indicate rare pieces.

Example: 1955 Franklin Half Dollar S

The 1955 San Francisco Franklin half dollar is marked with an “S” and is rare. Coins from the San Francisco Mint are often minted in smaller quantities, making them more valuable to collectors.

• Characteristics: Weight 12.5 g, diameter 30.6 mm.

• Design: Features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse.

• Why to consider: San Francisco “S” mint mark coins were usually minted in more limited mintages, which automatically increases their value. Their rarity and high silver content also contribute to their value.

How Much Are Coins Worth: Estimated Value of the Above Collectibles from Your Pocket

Before you evaluate your coin collection, it is important to realize that the value of each coin depends on many factors: year of issue, material of manufacture, condition, minting errors, and rarity. In the table below you can find the approximate estimated value of the coin examples mentioned above.

Step 5: Use Modern Assessment and Identification Tools

To successfully find and evaluate rare coins such as minting errors, rare dates or unique design elements, it is important to carefully inspect them and use specialized tools. Try the Coin ID Scanner app to receive your indispensable assistant on your way to becoming a numismatist. This application allows you to quickly and easily identify coins, check their rarity and estimate their value.

How to use Coin ID Scanner?

1. Take a photo of the coin or automatically scan it with the app to identify key features.

2. Watch the Coin ID Scanner check and search for your coin in an extensive database. Coin ID Scanner matches your coin to the database and will report information about the coin.

3. Get an estimate of value and other insights. The app offers an approximate market value of the coin based on its condition and rarity.

Tip: Use the app with every new piece to check its rarity and value at a glance. This will save you time and help you avoid valuation errors.

The change you receive every day can hide many rare and valuable coins, and now you know what to look out for. Use our tips, stay alert and arm yourself with the best tools to find your first precious coin!

Sources:

1. https://coinweek.com/rare-coins-worth-money-that-you-can-find-in-pocket-change/

2. https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/most-valuable-coins-in-pocket-change-768897