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Rare U.S. Coins: Which Nickels, Pennies, Dimes & Quarters To Keep

Do you think you have a United States rare coin? I thought I did.

I’m not exactly a coin collector, and I’m far from a Numismatist. So, for the latest coin facts and values, you’ll want to check out the articles written by our coin expert, Joshua. What follows is my novice approach to finding the value of some coins I had saved through the years.

I was fishing around for some coins for the soda machine yesterday, when I found a 1974 nickel that looked strangely silver… or else strangely dirty.

I don’t know if 1974 nickels are especially valuable in terms of rare coins or not, but I do remember my dad always telling me there were certain years that you were supposed to hold onto.

Several years' worth of silver coins -- mostly nickels -- in a ziploc bag.Something about…

Anyway, I thought I’d do a little research to find out which U.S. coins are actually worth something these days.

And from now on, I’m saving them!…

The best sites on the web I found for quick access to coin values was Heritage Galleries & Auctioneers and Professional Coin Grading Service.

Their sites are very up-to-date and make it easy to find the value of virtually any U.S. coin!

Another good site for general coin collecting information is the American Numismatic Association.

 

What’s That Coin Worth?

Just to pick a few of the rare coins that I, personally, have come across… here are some coins you’ll want to hold onto:

  • Wheat Pennies (…worth 2 to 5 times their face value)
  • Steel Pennies (…supposedly very common; all are from 1943 and they stick to a magnet; worth up to a dime)
  • 1943 Copper Penny (…guess they primarily made steel pennies this year, making the standard copper penny rare for the year 1943; how does $20,000 sound?!)
  • Indian Head Penny (…who knew a penny could be worth up to 3 dollars?!)
  • Buffalo Nickel (…they’re worth up to a dollar)

 

What’s Not Worth A Thing…

 

The Value Of My Coin Collection

Our spare change jar -- an old Seyfert's Pretzels glass jar.A glance inside our spare change jar -- a bunch of pennies, a few buttons, and a couple golf tees. I don't golf, and Jim hasn't golfed in YEARS... yet all my life, there's always been a golf tee that finds its way into my spare change jar! Turns out, my 1974 dirty silver nickel is worth a whopping… 5 cents.

But I still felt the urge to rummage through all those old coins I’ve been saving through the years!

I mean, what are the odds that I could be sitting on something of value?

 

how-much-are-coins-in-a-jar-worth.jpg Fun, fun, fun!… You can use this online tool from CoinStar to find out how much your jar of coins is worth! (Or try these.)

 

Okay, after a quick search here, this is what I found…

It’s not much, but the maximum value of my at this point looks to be around 3 dollars and 10 cents.

That’s from:

  • (2) 1964 silver Roosevelt Jefferson nickels (5x face value = $.25 ea)
  • (2) 1959 silver Roosevelt Jefferson nickels (5x face value = $.25 ea)
  • (1) 1943 mercury dime (10x face value = $1.00 ea)
  • (22) 1939-1958 wheat pennies (5x face value = $.05 ea)

Unless, of course, I take this guy’s site into account, which states I could get around 50 cents to a dollar for each of my 1942-64 nickels! … 88 of them at 50-cents each equals: $44! Guess I’ll be holding onto those just in case. (The site claims $2 for “very fine” quality, which mine are not, so I deducted $1.50 each to account for the “well-circulated” condition of my nickels.)

…Ah well, I’m still “banking” on the fact that my stamp collection is worth something. My MOM will tell ya it is… She’s the one who bought most of those “plate block sets of 4″ for me through my elementary and high school years! I’ve got a few thousand dollars worth of “mint condition” stamps in face value alone!

 

UPDATE: 

Hello Lynnette, nice article. However, the 1959 and 1964 Jefferson nickels that you found in your coin collection are not silver. You may be thinking of the 1942-1945 Jefferson nickels that contained 35% silver. Really, only the copper-nickel clad Jefferson nickels dated before 1942 are valued by collectors. Most post-1945 nickels are fairly common in circulation.
– Joshua (…who knows a lot more about coins than I do!)

 

Fun Things I’ve Done With Coins

Ah well, maybe I haven’t struck it rich yet, but I had a good time scavaging around for old coins!

Which reminds me… As a kid, we used to save up our pennies then take them down to the train tracks.
We’d place a slew of them on the actual rails, then wait for a train to pass by. They would flatten them like pancakes, turning our pennies into mini copper saucers that we saved (for a few years), until we decided to start skipping them (like rocks) in the Mississinewa River.

Lynnette's stamp collection -- started in elementary school and stopped in college. Then, one year, my Dad had me convinced that coin collecting was yet another hobby I indeed needed to start (…in addition to my beer can collection, matchbook collection, rock collection, keyring collection, and stamp collection!). So my mission became to save one penny from every year, one nickel from every year, and so on. And I polished them all up nice & shiny too. (I would use a pencil eraser!) Little did I know at the time that cleaning your coin collection was a very bad thing to do.

 

What I Learned Today…

Sometimes you’ve gotta look REAL hard to spot what makes a coin valuable… like this 1995 penny!

Geesh… does all this research make me an amateur numismatist now???

 

How to Find The Value of Coins in YOUR Coin Collection

If you have a coin and you would like to know what it’s worth, you have 2 options:

Check online here: Heritage Galleries & Auctioneers or Professional Coin Grading Service.

Or, get your own official price guide.

 

More About Rare U.S. Coins

Lynnette Walczak

I like to help people find unique ways to do things in order to save time & money -- so I frequently write about "outside the box" ideas that most wouldn't think of. As a lifelong dog owner, I often share my best tips for living with and training dogs. I worked in Higher Ed several years until switching gears to pursue things I was more passionate about. I've worked at a vet, in a photo lab, and at a zoo -- to name a few. I enjoy the outdoors via bicycle, motorcycle, Jeep, or RV. You can always find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun websites).

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  • Anonymous

    Hi, Taylor -

    A 1964 Lincoln penny is actually still worth just one cent if you found it in pocket change.

    Except for rare error pennies (like the kind that have parts of the coin struck in a double image), pennies from the 1960s through today have to be in mint (not worn) condition for them to be worth more than their face value.

    Have fun collecting coins!

  • rebeccah

    what would be the worth of a1841 half dime in good shape

    • Anonymous

      Rebeccah,

      An 1841 half dime is worth about $13 to $20 in even the lower circulated grades. Prices increase up to over $100 if the coin is only lightly worn or better.

  • Anonymous

    i have 3 silver pennies :) 1 is from sanfrisnsisco mint one from denvert and 1 from philly how much is the sanfransico 1 worth?and how much is a indeiand head penny worth? from 1909 and also 1 of thoes old dimes not the ones that we have today. there all in good shape

    • Anonymous

      Hi YouSay,

      1943 steel pennies are each worth about 25 cents to $1 in typical circulated grades.

      Indian Head pennies are valued based on the year and grade. A common Indian Head cent from the 1890s to 1900s in average circulated grades is worth about $2 to $4, though.

      Would you mind telling me the year of your dime? I’ll be able to give you a better idea as to its value if I know its date….

    • Anonymous

      i know 1f a regular 1909 couple hundred then it goes 1909d is worth a little bit more between 300 or so then the 1909 s is between 500 and 800 and the 1909 svdb is worth 1500 hundred and up heritage action sight it will give u an idea the worth.i have over 3000 lincoln wheat my uncle has been saving since the 40s and i still have alot to go through have a good day

  • Anonymous

    where do you get theese coins im tring to get a 1949-S but you guys say yu have coins from the 1800s’ and the 1700s’ do you buy them offline or something??? or just find them on the ground …… but my grandpa has a very rare nickle could probally go for 2million i may be mistaking it for that really rare one that went for 3million.

    • Anonymous

      YouSay,

      While some people have been extremely fortunate to find old and rare coins in pocket change, buried underground, or as part of a family estate, most people have to buy the old and rare coins they want for their collections.

      Coin dealers are the place to go to buy most any coin you could want. Check online or your phone directory for coin dealers near you, and be sure you also visit some of the reputable coin dealers online. For more info, check out 5 Surefire Tips To Find A Good Coin Dealer: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2009/12/coin_dealer.php

      As far as the 1913 Liberty nickel which just sold for $3.7 million, you’ll be interested in finding out more in How To Spot Rare US Coins: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/01/rare_us_coins.php

      Good luck!

    • Anonymous

      i have a 1902 indian head and from 1909 till todays date minus the 1922 and the 1943 copper u can reach me at butch_baker@att.net 49,49s and or 49d.i still have to go through my uncles coin collection he started in the 40s until now alot to go through and see thank u

  • harold

    what a1910 dime worth v on back

  • jesabelle

    i just found a 1965 silver dime worth $9000+!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Jesabelle –

      Wow! I hope you really found the real thing, though! The 1965 silver dime is a rare error piece made by the U.S. Mint at the time when the government was transitioning over to copper-nickel coins. The theory is that a few silver dimes were struck with the 1965 date by accident.

      Yes, if you do have one of those rare 1965 silver dimes, it would be worth about $9000 (and definitely more if only lightly worn).

      *I strongly urge you to get your coin authenticated by a trustworthy, reputable third-party coin grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the American Numismatic Association (ANACS) to verify that what you have is authentic.

      I’m hoping for you that you do have an authentic 1965 silver dime!

  • Anonymous

    Hello, I have a 1865 two cent piece. Is it worth anything?

    • Anonymous

      Neat coin, Anita!

      Yes, your 1865 2-cent coin is worth $15 to $20 or more assuming average wear and no damage.

    • Anonymous

      Thanks so much. Have some more old ones and will send when I can.

      • Anonymous

        You’re welcome, Anita. Sounds good!

  • John

    Have a wheat cent it is shaped like a cup, meaning it has the back and side or edge of penney, but no front side where the date and lincoln goes what is this?

    • Anonymous

      John,

      That sounds like the type of penny illusionists use for doing magic tricks. You can probably fit a dime perfectly in your Lincoln wheat cent cup! That’s the likely intention…

      While your coin is unfortunately worth nothing to a coin collector, it may be worth a couple dollars to an illusionist.

  • carl

    I found a 1984 washington liberty quarter and on the obverse side the word LIBERTY and the DATE NUMBERS look real wide and flattened down or mushed. The reverse side is natural. I don’t know if this was done by the die machine or from some other source like wear or something heavy hit it.
    but it really stands out when I looked at it in magnifacation. So I got another 1984 washington liberty quarter and put it right on top of the one I found where just the liberty was visiable on both and then the same with the numbers were only visable and the other quarter did not have the flatness look to it, So I want to know if this is a rare coin or it was caused by just wear. Thank you.

    • Anonymous

      Carl,

      There are a number of possibilities about what could’ve happened to your coin, but — without seeing the coin — I have to speculate if it may be the subject of machine doubling. Machine doubling isn’t the same thing as a double die and is caused by something going amiss with the process of striking of the coin. This type of coin would not have any significant value at all IF that’s what happened to it.

      Otherwise, I tried looking up information on any known varieties of 1984 Washington quarters and can’t find any such notes at all, so I’m thinking machine doubling, but that’s just a sight-unseen guess…

  • John

    I found looking thru pennies a 1999D that appears to been have struck as it has a nice shine like bright gray , but no copper coating and appears copper has not been removed is this of any value?

    • Anonymous

      John,

      It sounds like you may have a possible error there. Book values for a zinc cent without its copper coating are up to $100.

  • Pedro A Pedro

    I have a lot of old coins pennys nicles buffalo 1/2 dollars coins dollar how can I know how much are they worth where can I go in the internent to know the value thank you

  • mike

    i have a nickle with a single ”P” top back is that rare?

    • Anonymous

      Mike,

      Your nickel with the P mintmark over Monticello is not rare, but it IS a silver coin!

      That’s right — from 1942 to 1945, U.S. nickels were actually made from a combination of manganese, copper, and silver. All Jefferson nickels with that large mint mark over the dome of Monticello are so-called wartime nickels made from silver. In typical worn grades, they’re worth about $1 to $1.50.

  • Mitchell

    I found a 1942 quarter. it is a very diffrent type of metal do you no by chance what it might be?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Mitchell –

      Yes, you have a good ‘ol 90% silver Washington quarter. The latest 90% silver date you will find for quarters is 1964. If your is in typical worn grades, it’s worth about $2 to $5.

  • Rob

    I have a 1953 copper penny… If i google it i keep getting 1943 pennies… mine if exactly the same just the date. Is it still worth anything
    ????

    • Anonymous

      Rob,

      A 1953 Lincoln cent is a common wheat cent worth about 2 cents to 5 cents in typical circulated grades.

  • Anonymous

    i found this weird dime it says 10 and underneath it says EURO CENT
    can u tell me about it?

    • Anonymous

      Hi,

      What you have is a coin which circulates throughout the continent of Europe, particularly many of the major nations in Western Europe. The Euro is a standard currency which is used in several nations throughout Europe and replaces the old currency standards which used to be officially used in the nations now using the Euro. A Euro, by the way, is the monetary unit for those nations that use the Euro, just like the Dollar is the monetary unit in the United States.

      A Euro 10-cent coin is common for collectors, though it is technically valued at whatever the current exchange rate is.

  • Anonymous

    i found a 1995 penny and i read that if its double for the words “Liberty In God We Trust” How can we tell that its double because sometimes i see its double and sometimes it is 1 so can you help me?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Johnyy –

      The doubling is really very slight and you’ll need a good magnifying glass (I like at least 5X power to get a good view of these things). Here’s a link to an example of a 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent: http://www.govmint.com/item/1995-P-Double-Die-Lincoln-Error/DDLIN/12

      As you see, you need a really keen eye to notice the doubling, but it’s there. You’ll notice that there are two outlines for the letters, though the two outlines are really close together. If you see a 1995 Lincoln cent that appears to have thicker-than-usual writing, hold it aside. Closer examination MAY reveal it to be a doubled die.

      Good luck!

  • opal

    I have a dime that have that got copy on it .what do that mean

    • Anonymous

      Hi Opal,

      Unfortunately for you, the word ‘copy’ stamped on a coin means that piece is a replica (a fake coin, as we sometimes say).

  • lisazezula@gmail.com

    HI,
    I HAVE A 1945 NICKEL, ITS A P, I GUESS ITS WORTH JUST 5 CENTS….LOL

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Lisa –

      Surprise! Actually, you have a silver Jefferson 5-cent piece worth closer to $1! Nickels made from 1942 to 1945 contain a combination of 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. These so-called ‘wartime’ nickels can be easily spotted by the large mintmark over the dome of Monticello.

  • Smokingace

    Hi all so i found a Quarter today it is gold in color its 2001 conneticut U.S. it is circulated i am very interested in finding out why it is gold and what something rare as this would be worth

    • Anonymous

      Hello Smokingace,

      I’m sorry to say that your gold-covered 50 States quarter isn’t rare. In fact, 50 States quarters covered in a thin layer of gold are quite common and have been sold by the thousands by companies selling these coins both individually and in sets.

      While it’s somewhat uncommon to find a gold-covered quarter in circulation, these coins are worth a very small premium and are usually sold mostly as novelty coins. Yours probably could sell for between $1 to $5, though the price varies a bit. Being that your is worn, it may sell for closer to the $1 mark than the $5 price I suggest.

      Congrats though on finding such a beautiful coin in pocket change!

  • erin

    i found a 1943 dime in good condition how much do you think its worth

  • jude

    what about a quarter that has the face on both sides whats the value of it?

    • Anonymous

      Jude,

      Actually, a two-headed quarter is virtually always a trick novelty coin. Such a piece really has more value in the illusionists’ coin market than the coin-collecting market. Most are worth a couple to a few dollars.

  • Anonymous

    i found a quartar with the year1776-1976 on the front but the back is a drummer how much is it worth

    • Anonymous

      Hi papapablo,

      If you found the bicentennial quarter in pocket change, then it will have been worn and is worth only face value (25 cents). If it’s in mint condition (uncirculated) then it will have a value of about 30 to 50 cents.

  • Anonymous

    i have a 1940 quarter that is silver also a 1964 silver quatr. and an 1842 canadian pennie r any of these valuble

    • Anonymous

      Hi Nickaman,

      The 1940 and 1964 silver Washington quarters are each worth $2 to $5 in typical, circulated grades. The 1842 Canadian one penny coin is worth $5 to $10; it’s worth a little less if corroded (old copper coins tend to corrode pretty easily) and more if the coin is only lightly worn and shows no damage.

  • Anonymous

    I have a 1803 penny and would how much it it worth now.

    • Anonymous

      Hi Obralvance,

      An 1803 U.S. cent (which has the portrait of a woman’s head profile) is worth at least $50 to $75 in well-worn circulated grades and over $1,000 in lightly circulated condition or better.

      However, these prices are contingent on the assumption your coin is not damaged or discolored. Such pieces are worth less (often far less) than the types of values I suggest here. To get an idea of what damaged coins look like, check this out: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/03/damaged_coins.php

  • Anonymous

    I have 6 mercury dimes ranging in year from 1917-1920 and also one Barber dime from 1899, any idea on the worth?

    my email Nosferatu9xx@yahoo.com

    • Anonymous

      Hi Nick,

      The 1917 to 1920 Mercury dimes are worth $2 to $3 each in well-worn grades. If there’s a “D” or “S” on any of those dimes and they show only light wear, their values are generally $5 to $10 each and up.

      Your 1899 Barber dime is worth $3 to $5 in typical well-worn grades.

  • ed

    I have a 1887 indian head penny, how much is it worth?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Ed –

      An 1887 Indian cent that is uncleaned, undamaged, and in typical well-worn grades with nice brown toning is worth $2 to $3.

  • Anonymous

    1915 D quarter dollar, with Lady Liberty’s profile…
    …. Sorry, I looked it up and found it… hope I didn’t waste your time. :)
    I do have three other questions though.

    1. I have what looks like a thick coin. It reads “5 D W T” on one side, and “5 Penny Weights” on the other side. Is this a weight for an old scale or a coin to measure/balance other money?

    2. I also have a coin that reads “Benjamin Franklin, 1706-1790″, with his profile on one side. And “Benjamin Franklin Memorial Souvenir, The Franklin Institute” on the other side. I know this is a souvenir, but would this have any value among collectors? It is not steal (not magnetic), but it does have a little weight to it. It is a very nice looking coin.

    And 3. Do you know any good, easy to search through, sights to go to to look up foreign coins? I have a number, from many different countries. And some are quite old.

    • Anonymous

      Hi, cldv –

      No waste of time at all! I’m glad you found some info on the 1915-D Barber quarter.

      20 pennyweights is 1 ounce. I’m not sure, however, of the coin you are referring to that actually has that written out on the coin, though… That’s a great question!

      Yes, souvenir medals are worth something to collectors. Medals fall into a category of the hobby generally referred to as ‘exonumia.’ You can find out a bit more about exonumia here: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2009/05/novelty_coins.php

      Medals like yours tend to sell for $2 to $5 in most cases. I suspect your medal is made of either copper of pewter, given your description of the piece’s weight — these are two rather heavy metals used in common medals.

      The best site I have seen and used for foreign coins is here: http://worldcoingallery.com/ This website has a very expansive catalog of foreign coins from numerous nations and eras. I hope this helps you!

    • Anonymous

      Thank you for your time, it was appreciated!

  • Helpee

    I have 2 1965 quarters, & 2 quarters that say 1776-1976. The latter don’t look very old, & they might be recent, but how much are they worth?

  • Anonymous

    What does “Double Dated” mean for a coin? How does one tell if it is/has been?
    Thank you!
    Also, are there any value to the State Quarters above face value?

    • Anonymous

      Hi CLDV,

      A common term is ‘dual dated.’ There are many examples of this, perhaps the most popular being the ’1776-1976′-dated bicentennial coins minted during 1975 and 1976. http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/02/bicentennial_coins.php

      An ‘overdate’ is a popular (and technical) term for a coin which has a date that was actually corrected by the U.S. Mint in such a way that you can see traces of the old date over the new. A popular example is the 1942-over-1 (or 1942/1) Mercury dime — you can still see traces of the ’1′ under the ’2′ in 1942. http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/01/rare_us_coins.php

      As for 50 State quarters worth more than face value, most any uncirculated 50 States quarter is worth at least a small premium over face, and those which came from the U.S. Mint without any contact marks and show no signs of wear can be worth tens or even hundreds of dollars.

      Proof versions of the 50 States quarter (both copper-nickel clad and silver) are worth $3 to $15 each.

      50 States quarters errors are worth anywhere from a few dollars each to hundreds of dollars, depending on the error. http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2009/04/wisconsin_quarter_error.php

      • Anonymous

        I see… Does one need a microscope to see the doubling clearly?
        … Also, if a proof coin is circulated does the value of that coin deplete to face value Or would it still hold value (ex. 1990- no “S” penny in circulated, dirty condition)?
        … thanks for the links, I found them helpful.

        • Anonymous

          Hi, cldv –

          In the cases of the coins I described above, the dual-dating on the 1776-1976 is clearly displayed on the coin. The 1942/1 Mercury dime and other such overdates normally require at least a 3X to 5X magnifier to really see the details on those peculiarities.

          In the case of double-dies (which I did not mention above), you will need the magnifier to compare any ‘suspects’ to photos of real double dies to make sure the coins are in fact double dies. Again, stick with at least a 3X. I use 5X and 10X magnifiers.

          A proof coin that has been in circulation is called an ‘impaired proof’ coin. The value of these vary on the coin in question. You posed a great example: the rare 1990 no-S Lincoln cent. I don’t know the exact value of a worn one as I have never myself seen one listed, but I can guarantee you that even a worn example would attract brisk interest and certainly sell for several hundred or more dollars.

          A common proof coin from the 1960s or later would ordinarily sell for anywhere between 20 and 50% of the uncirculated proof value.

          I’m glad to help — please feel free to ask any questions you have any time!

  • Guest

    I am trying to help a friend find the value of an 1854 Large Cent. It has Lady Liberty head on front, and thirteen stars on back. Please hel if you can. Thank You!

    • Anonymous

      Hi, guest

      An 1854 large cent (the kind you have is called a ‘Braided Hair’ large cent, by the way) is worth about $15 to $25 in the lower circulated grades, but for it to be worth that price, it has to have no corrosion, heavy nicks, and it cannot have been cleaned or otherwise damaged. If there are any signs of damage, it will be worth significantly less.

      If it has only light wear, its value goes up to above $50.

  • Timothy

    I see that you have listed
    * (2) 1964 silver Roosevelt Jefferson nickels (5x face value = $.25 ea)
    * (2) 1959 silver Roosevelt Jefferson nickels (5x face value = $.25 ea)
    * (1) 1943 mercury dime (10x face value = $1.00 ea)
    * (22) 1939-1958 wheat pennies (5x face value = $.05 ea)

    1964 and 1959 nickels are not silver. The only nickels to be silver are those from 1942 to 1945 and they have the mint mark above the Monticello Dome.

    • http://thefuntimesguide.com/ FunTimesGuide

      Thanks for pointing that out, Timothy.
      Much appreciated :-D

  • Kevinhenry40

    My name is Kevin an I have a neighbor who has a silver coin that’s dated 1899, susan b anthony picture on it with the 13 stars circling it. Also, with the letter V with a reef around it. Could you please help in figuring out what exactly this coin is an it’s worth?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Kevin –

      You seem to be describing a Liberty nickel, though the woman on that design is a rendering of Miss Liberty, not Susan B. Anthony. I’ll include a link to the coin I’m talking about just to make sure we’re discussing the same coin: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_Head_nickel

      If it is an 1899 Liberty nickel, it’s worth $2 to $5 in typical circulated grades…

  • Bublobaugh

    I have a 1828 dime with eagle on back need a good reference site for worth

    • Anonymous

      Great question, Bublo. A good site for getting pricing information is on the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) website.

      Along with being among the top coin-grading companies around, their website also has a great pricing resource that is frequently updated. The values are technically applicable only to PCGS-graded coins, but this site gives some good general idea as to the value of certain coins.

      I’ll post the link to their Bust dimes value page here: http://www.pcgs.com/prices/PriceGuideDetail.aspx?MS=1&PR=1&SP=1&c=94&title=Capped+Bust+Dime

  • Jacob Gerhardt4

    About how much is the entire 1964 Denver circulation set worth? I saw one set at a thrift shop and it was marked for $2,000 dollars. I’m missing only the dollar from that year.

    • Anonymous

      Hi Jacob,

      No dollar coin was actually officially released for 1964 (though some were minted, melted, and are now illegal to own if found). Find out more about the 1964-D Peace dollar here: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/05/peace_silver_dollar.php

      I don’t know why the shop was selling the coin set for $2,000 as that’s WAAaaaay more than a typical 1964 Denver set is worth, unless they were selling hundreds of pieces in a single set and were selling it as a silver bullion item.

      You shouldn’t need to pay any more than about $15 to $20 to buy a nice set of the 5 different Denver coins (cent, nickel, dime, quarter, and half dollar) in uncirculated grades.

  • acar

    I have a 1942 mercury dime and 1964 Quater how do i find out what they are worth?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Acar –

      I can tell you that your 1942 dime is worth about $1.50 to $2 and your quarter is worth around $2 to $3.

      You can always check out all of our coin articles here to find out more about values for any of your other coins, too!

  • Carmen

    Hello,
    How can one tell if a 1990 Lincoln penny is a 1990- no “S” penny or a Lincoln cent minted in Phila.?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Carmen –

      The 1990 no-S Lincoln cent, as a noted error, occurred only on the proof coins of that year. Proof Lincoln cents of the era have highly reflective, nearly mirror-like, surfaces and great display of minute detail. Regular 1990 cents (made in Philadelphia) lack such surface quality and detail.

  • Khalidjewler

    i have some u s coins & i know a hole market of old coins

  • Taylor18.Ashley

    i have a very strange question. I found what looks to be a gold plated penny from the 1974′s. it has an outline of oklamhoma with OK written in the middle just a millimeter or so down into the date of the penny. plz tell me if u knows what is up with this penny.

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Ashley

      Actually, thousands of pennies dated from the 1970s were imprinted, after they left the U.S. Mint, with the outlines of all 50 states. While I don’t know the company that did this, I can tell you that it’s a fairly common type of novelty coin. It’s probably worth about $1 or so to an interested buyer of novelty coins.

  • Will Ludlow

    I found a 1968 penny the back is upside down! is that cool or valuble to anyone?

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Will –

      You mean when you flip your coin around left to right, both Lincoln and the Memorial are facing up?

      I checked for any record of 1968 Lincoln cents with a medaliac turn (which means both sides of a coin are oriented the same direction) and couldn’t find any. I would check with your local coin dealer and bring the coin in for a sight-seen evaluation.

      If your coin is authentically medaliac turn, it is an error and could be worth some money. PERHAPS over $100.

  • Dave

    Hello my name is dave and I’m looking for some info on these coins I have one is a 1943 silver penny and the other is a 1905 nickle I believe its hard to tell with all the black crap on it but I dont want to try and clean it just incase

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Dave –

      Wise move; you’re always better off leaving coins alone. A 1943 steel penny is worth about 10 to 25 cents if worn.

      Your 1905 Liberty nickel is probably black due to corrosion or oxidation (if a nickel is black, its usually because of some chemical reaction to its environment). Still, your Liberty nickel is worth around 50 cents to $1 if it’s pretty well worn.

  • Robert

    I have a question for you. 1908 half dollar, (2)1900 dollar coins, 1941 half dollar, 1923 dollar coin, 1941 dime, 6 nickels with half a face on the front with different symbols on the back. Are any of these valuable because I just found them in a box from my grandfather who passed away.

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Robert —

      Our condolences to you on the passing of your grandfather….

      As far as the coins you found in the box, here’s a general breakdown on values assuming all the coins are in decent shape and have wear typical for their ages:

      *1923 Peace silver dollar: $15 to $20
      *1900 Morgan silver dollars: $18 to $25 each
      *1941 Walking Liberty half dollar: $6 to $10
      *1908 Barber Half dollar: $15 to $25
      *1941 Mercury dime: $2 to $3

      I’m not sure which nickels you have… What are the dates?

  • Jarret

    hey Guys! Not sure about a penny I have…1929 Wheatback, no mint, but is very shiney….unlike ALL the other wheat pennies i have which are a dull brown…. worthless or a keeper???

    Thanks!
    Jarret

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Jarret –

      Well, if it’s shiny, it means one of two things:

      *It’s been cleaned and is worth only 2 or 3 cents.
      *It’s uncirculated and is worth $10 or more.

      The best way for me to give you an estimate on its value is to post a photo to The Fun Times Guide Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/#!/TheFunTimesGuideToCoins).

      However, if the design of Lincoln looks pretty worn (and you can’t see details like his ear and all his hairlines) chances are you had what was once a dull brown and well-worn Lincoln cent that somebody polished up.

      If you can see all the minute details of Lincoln and all the lines in the wheat ears on the back, it may be an uncirculated piece.

      A 1929 Lincoln cent is an 81-year-old coin that is getting very tough to find in circulation. Definitely keep it if you like old coins! It’s worth more than face value cleaned or not.

  • Jimmyftaylor

    i have a 1940 nickel i just fond today its in good shape think it mint b worth something i dont kown my is jimmy

    • Anonymous

      Jimmy — a nice old 1940 Jefferson nickel like yours is common but does have a nominal value of around 10 to 20 cents in typical worn grades. If it were me, I’d probably just keep it because it’s an old coin that’s getting harder to find in circulation these days.

  • Zigman

    I found a 1976 penny with no mint letter. It is very shiny like brass and seems to be lighter in weight to other pennies. Does this penny have any value and if so what might it be?

    • Anonymous

      Zigman,

      As for the lack of a mintmark, that is simply because it’s a penny made at the Philadelphia mint — one-cent coins made there don’t bear a mintmark.

      Did you weigh the penny? A typical bronze Lincoln cent should weigh 3.11 grams…

  • lmcjim
  • lmcjim
  • lmcjim
  • RON

    I have 5 1922 silver dollar coins—They are packaged so they could possibly be uncirculated—Do you know the value of these coins? Ron—E-Mail—RUFOR10S@AOL.COM

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Ron -

      The U.S. Mint wasn’t making coin sets in 1922, so your 5 Peace dollars were packaged by a private party. At the very least (with the price of silver as of this writing), EACH is worth around $20, so you have around $100 (more or less) in silver coins right there.

      1922 Peace silver dollars are common, so even in typical uncirculated grades, they are worth around $25 to $30. Only in gem uncirculated grades or higher would they be worth over $30 to $40 each.

      Here’s a bit of info on coin grading — this may help you in determining which grade your Peace dollars are in: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2007/12/how_to_grade_a_coin_grades.php

  • Ken D.

    I recently found a dime. its worn and thin but you can still read the markings on it. its dated 1904, and says One Dime on the back. Does anybody know if it has value.

    • Anonymous

      Ken,

      Yes, your 1904 Barber dime is worth at least $2 just for its silver value. If there’s still a bit of detail left, it may be worth $4 to $5 or more.

  • Native_chick19712000

    I have a 1943 silver penny do you know the value of this or where do I go to see what it is worth

    • Anonymous

      Nativechick,

      Your 1943 steel cent is worth 10 to 25 cents.

  • PJFrazier3@yahoo.com

    I have a 1928 dime. Is it worth anthing?????????? I’m not into coins, however, I’m holding on to this one. Let me know pjfrazier3@yahoo.com (Thank You)

    • Anonymous

      Hi, PJ –

      Definitely, your 1928 Mercury dime is worth at least $2 to $3; it’s worth more if it’s well preserved, NOT cleaned or damaged, and has only light wear.

      Thanks for your question!

  • katrina ringgold

    I have a dollar coin that has george washington on one side that is lettered “1st president 1789-1797″ and “GEORGE WASHINGTON’ and on the flip side it has the statue of liberty .. ‘$1″ and lettered ” united states of america” is this coin worth anything ???

  • narvolicious

    Great article. I’ve always dug collecting the old pennies that say “ONE CENT” on the back (the older, the better), simply for mind trips and nostalgic reasons (yes, for times before my time, even). The oldest penny I have is from 1918. I’ve never bothered to see if I have anything worth a bundle, but after reading your article it makes me curious.

  • Cgnichols1

    I have a whole collection of state quarters from the P mint how much all together are they?? Thanks!

    • Anonymous

      Hi, CG –

      Because each of the 50 States Quarters are pretty common, even a whole set would still be worth only face value, unless each of the coins is in mint state grade (with no wear).

      The 50 States Quarters series is a very nice set and, even if they’re not currently an extremely valuable series, are perfect for framing and displaying.

  • DICKMARSHALL

    NO KNOWN EXAMPLES OF 1943 COPPER CENT ARE KNOW TO EXIST IN CIRCULATION THIS IS AN URBAN LEGEND PINCHER

    • Walshv29

      i have one

  • Mary405

    Can anyone help me. Found two pennies on the back of the penny, it shows a man sitting on a log reading a book. What is this

    • Anonymous

      Mary,

      You have a Lincoln cent honoring the the life of the 16th president. The penny you’re referring to shows Lincoln in his teen years reading a book. Other Lincoln cents from 2009 show Lincoln’s log cabin home, Lincoln as a senator, and the Capitol as seen during the time of his presidency.

      None of these are worth anything above face value if worn.

  • stan

    I have a complete set of wheat pennies from 1909 (all) to 1958 in varing grades, mostly good/fine to au
    If I were to sell what would be a good starting price?
    Thanks, Stan

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Stan –

      What a nice collection. So as long as the rare pieces (like the 1909 S VDB and 1914 D) are authentic, even if all the pieces are in good, a nice offer for the complete set should start at around $1,400 to $1,500.

      HOWEVER, if your set also includes the 1922 plain, the price for the set should begin at closer to $2,000. A 1955 Doubled Die adds at least another $800 to $1,000 in very worn grades.

      Noe, this assumes all the pieces are in problem-free, uncleaned grades. If any of the coins have damage (especially the scarce pieces), the value will be brought down, but only a sight-seen evaluation in such a case would determine by how much.

      You mentioned some pieces are in AU. Are these the later coins? Some of the earlier ones? Depending on which coins are in AU, the value of the set would also be brought back up. I still feel confident with $1,400-$1,500/$2,000 ranges if it’s just the later coins that are in AU.

      However, if any of the early and especially the scarce dates are in grades much above fine to very fine, I would suggest a higher price tag. Again though, the exact amount is based on which coins are in higher grades.

      Good luck!

  • Thehumantouch77

    My husband has a US penny with the date 1851. Any idea the worth of that?

    • Anonymous

      Humantouch,

      An 1851 large cent that’s well worn but undamaged is worth around $15 to $20.

    • Anonymous

      Humantouch,

      An 1851 large cent that’s well worn but undamaged is worth around $15 to $20.

  • Billbers_1

    does anyone know what year a nickel is that has like steps leading up to the back of the house

    • Joshua

      Billbers,

      Sounds like you’re referring to President Thomas Jefferson’s house, Monticello, which has been seen on the back of Jefferson nickels since 1938 — except for 2004 and 2005, when the Lewis & Clark bicentennial meant 4 special designs on the back of nickels during those 2 years.

      • Billbers_1

        thanks

      • Billbers_1

        thanks

    • Joshua

      Billbers,

      Sounds like you’re referring to President Thomas Jefferson’s house, Monticello, which has been seen on the back of Jefferson nickels since 1938 — except for 2004 and 2005, when the Lewis & Clark bicentennial meant 4 special designs on the back of nickels during those 2 years.

  • Billbers_1

    does anyone know what year a nickel is that has like steps leading up to the back of the house

  • Ttresemme

    I have a 1920 mercury head dime and a 1950 wheat penny. Do they have any monetary value

    • Anonymous

      Yes, T –

      Your 1920 Mercury dime is worth around $2 to $3 in typical worn grades and the 1950 Lincoln cent is worth around 5 cents.

    • Anonymous

      Yes, T –

      Your 1920 Mercury dime is worth around $2 to $3 in typical worn grades and the 1950 Lincoln cent is worth around 5 cents.

  • Ttresemme

    I have a 1920 mercury head dime and a 1950 wheat penny. Do they have any monetary value

  • coinman

    You Know, not all you say is true about “What’s Not Worth a Thing”, as there are errors, miss strikes, and doubled-Die varieties out there. I suggest investing in a U.S. Coin book before throwing out or spending your coins.

  • coinman

    You Know, not all you say is true about “What’s Not Worth a Thing”, as there are errors, miss strikes, and doubled-Die varieties out there. I suggest investing in a U.S. Coin book before throwing out or spending your coins.

  • sandra getts

    i want know what a 1902 silver penny is worth

    • Anonymous

      Sandra,

      Because the U.S. Mint didn’t make any silver-colored pennies in 1902, it sounds like your coin may have been plated with pewter or covered in mercury (which is very hazardous to touch)

      Such coins are considered altered by coin collectors and, therefore, not worth considerably less than an unaltered piece. A regular, unaltered 1902 penny in typical worn grades is worth around $2.

  • Tiffany

    Hi I have a 1969-s penny, good condition i think its a double die but not sure. heared this man got $126,000 for one. Is it worth much?

  • Kemp

    You do of course realize that as the value of precious metals (copper) rises, that the value of a current nickel, as measured by its current makeup (75% copper) also rises? Saying that a current nickel is only worth face value is absolutely false as of today. Obviously its numismatic value is $.05, but its value in metal is $.068 as of today.

  • Shirley

    I have a 1842 half dime and wanted to know what it’s worth

    • Anonymous

      Shirley,

      Your 1842 half dime is worth around $15.

  • Roy Grootegoed

    I have 2 of the new Gettysbug quarters with part of center of the Gettysburg lettering missing. Are they worth anything now or could they be in years to come?

    Roy G.

  • Bronsondt

    i have all kinds of different coins , and i live in akeley minnesota , and no coin dealers , graders, or collectors anywhere close how do i get ahold of someone to see if i have anything of value? please help chances are i dont have anything worth much but i am desperate to find out?

    • Anonymous

      Bronsondt,

      If you’d like, feel free to list the coins you’re curious about here and we’ll try our best to provide you with some approximate values!

  • Kevinf2349

    You may need to rethink the recommendation about the Jefferson nickel years to keep, the war year nickels (1942-1945) are made from 35% silver and are worth more than 5 cents.(Depending on condition and year). My guess is that their value is likely to increase in the next few years. True you are not going to be able to retire on the value, but……

  • Jean

    i am a liquidator….i ahve recently come into possesion of many valuable old coins from a deceased estate,which include various coins from all over the world,and also USA.i am Legitimate and run a totally legal auctioneering and liquidation company.
    anyone interested in buying a/the collection or a significant order?

    johannesburg
    south africa
    jean@goodrich.co.za

  • alley

    i have a penny  but i don’t know how much it is ? (it
     is durty)   ( silver 1943 penny)

    • Brandy

      If you look it up it might be one of the steel pennies that people often think are silver. I do believe they are worth alot of money.

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Alley –

      A worn 1943 steel cent like yours is worth between 10 cents and $1.

  • http://pulse.yahoo.com/_RE44RS3XCNGFLVJPPOJ5SFG3HU cat

    i have a 1978 nickle that is 2 cms  and has all the same print of a regular size nickle…i was wondering where do i go to find out about it..

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Cat –

      Sounds like you have a replica coin designed for a doll or toy set. These are quite common and really have no numismatic value, but perhaps have a little value 25 cents to $1 as a novelty piece.

  • Delisejnorris

    I have a 1885 dollar piece and I would like to know if it is worth anything, I keep it as a good luck piece. Curious in Tennessee

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Curious –

      Yes, it’s indeed worth something — in fact, with current silver values, it’s worth at least $30 to $35.

  • PRETTIEKITTIEKATZ

    I HAVE A RARE 1965 SILVER DIME NO MINT MARK COIN LIKE A NORMAL DIME IT HAS BROWN EADGES MY COIN IS ALL SILVER AROUND IT AND LITTLE BIGGER THEN TODAYS DIME

    • Anonymous

      Would you mint posting a pic of your 1965 dime on The Fun Times Guide to Coins Facebook wall so we can take a better look and see what’s going on with it? Thanks! Here’s the link: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000555130263#!/TheFunTimesGuideToCoins

    • Guggerpaul

      I have a 1965 dime that has a very strange edge the front and back of the coin extend past the edge almost like it was made in three pieces and glued together has anyone ever seen anything like this?

  • Doa21

    i have a 1959 d penny and it just looks weird so heres a pic tell me what u think ….i can post another pic but i only have a phone cam

    • Anonymous

      Doa,

      It looks like a regular 1959-D penny that has seen a bit of wear on the high points; while it’s worth only face value, any pennies made before 1982 are becoming a little scarcer because more and more people are beginning to hoard copper pennies. It is, however, illegal to melt pennies for their copper value.

  • Teresa

    I have a penny from 1853…its alot bigger than a reg penny…could this be worth anything?

    • Anonymous

      Teresa,

      Your 1853 cent is a coin that collectors literally refer to as a “large cent”! Your piece, in typical worn grades but without damage (holes, bends, major nicks, or being cleaned) is worth $10 to $20.

  • Jnm822

    I have a penny from 1914, how much would that be worth?

    • Anonymous

      Jnm,

      If your 1914 penny has a ‘D’ under the date, it’s worth at least $125. However, if there is no mintmark, it’s worth between 20 cents and $1 in typical circulated grades.

  • Anonymous

    Rex,

    It’s true that one cent coins made before 1982 and nickels carry premiums because of their copper composition, but it’s important that it be known it’s presently illegal to melt pennies and nickels for their copper value.

  • Wayne

    I have some s stamp 1 cents and nickels

  • Anonymous

    I have a 1949 Dime. what do you think it’s worth?

  • Unclemike

    I have some V-nickels, old buffalo nickels, a 1860 half dime, many half dollars, old pennies, some late 1800 and early 1900 silver dollars, I have a 1934 twenty and hundred dollar bill, some old confederate bills and other foreign coins and dollars for sale to collectors. Michael

  • Bgscheel

    My father has a 1/2 dollar (I am not sure of the date tho) but it has “bubble” that protrudes on both sides of the coin??!!! He is thinking maybe it was in a fire?  The whole coin looks to be matted in color rather than the shinny finish of a normal 1/2 dollar?! He has been wondering about this for years!!  Any chance you would know what happened to this 1/2 dollar?

    • Anonymous

      Bg,

      Would you please post a photo of that half dollar here in the message forum? If not, could you provide the year of that coin? It should help in determining what happened to it. Thanks!

  • Robert wallin

    I have a 1854 penny and also a 1906 in pretty good shape any clue what they are worth?

    • Anonymous

      Robert,

      Your 1854 large cent could be worth $15 to $20 or more if in decent shape and without any damage (cleaning, holes, bends, discoloration, etc). Your 1906 Indian cent is worth $2 to $5.

  • Jeremycastleman

    i have a 1906 liberty nickel what is it worth these days?

    • Anonymous

      Jeremy,

      A 1906 Liberty nickel in typical worn grades is worth $2 to $5 as a collector’s coin.

  • Feissosweet

    I have a Indian Head Penny 1908 a Indian Head Nickel 1940 and a halk dollar with and eagle on one side that 1941 whats the worth on them??

    • Anonymous

      Feissosweet –

      Here’s a rundown on approximate values based on average circulated grades:

      1908 Indian Head penny – $2 to $5
      1940 Jefferson nickel – 10 to 25 cents
      1941 Walking Liberty half dollar – $10 to $15

      • Feissosweet

        Someone keeps telling me that the penny itself is already worth 2,400 would that be true?

        • Anonymous

          Well, it depends on type of condition your penny is in. The value I suggested is the usual market value for a 1908 penny that has a typical amount of wear. A 1908 penny has to be in a superior level of mint state condition to be worth anything close to $2,400.

  • Gracehittel

    my best friend has an 1885 Silver Dollar (has stars around coin, eagle w wings spread on back), and two Liberty Head 1928 Silver Dollars. What is their value?

    • Anonymous

      Grace,

      At the current silver value, each of those silver dollars is worth $30 to $40 assuming they have an average amount of wear from being circulated.

  • Azcteri

    I belive I have some rare pennys starting with 1970 RTY slightly
    dbl also 1969 s dbl die and 1972 , 1984 ,1985 I also have 1990 without the [s] mint mark all my coins our proff I live in lake havasu city az dose anyone know where I can take them to be checked and I might sell them I just got layed off and dont want to lose my house please help az teri

  • Seth Cannello

    I have an all silver quarter dated 1965 with no mint mark.  I understand the last year all silver coins were made was 1964.  Is the coin worth anything?  It is in very good condition. 

  • Trevita1234

    i hav a 1913 liberty v nickel is it worth anything

    • Anonymous

      Trevita,

      There were only five 1913 Liberty nickels made, and these are therefore quite valuable – each is worth millions. However, there are also countless replica 1913 Liberty nickels around, and each is relatively worthless. Here is some more info on 1913 Liberty nickels: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2010/01/rare_us_coins-3.php

  • Joshua Moyer

    Hello Lynnette, nice article. However, the 1959 and 1964 Jefferson nickels that you found in your coin collection are not silver. You may be thinking of the 1942-1945 Jefferson nickels that contained 35% silver. Really, only the copper-nickel clad Jefferson nickels dated before 1942 are valued by collectors. Most post-1945 nickels are fairly common in circulation. 

  • Florence7777

    I found a 1945 metal penny, it is not copper, it is smaller than a regular wheat penny.  On the back between the two wheat it says ‘COPY’.  Is this just a play coin?

    • Anonymous

      Yes, Florence – it’s just a replica. 

  • Anonymous

    Hi, I need to ask a specific , a 1977 Kennedy Half dollar  the date shows  9 very small, and the first 7 is slanted 10 degrees left .  This coin is in a us proff set from Sanfrancisco, still sealed  ,uncirculated MS 69  how much could this be worth or can I write my own Check. 

  • michellewash

    hi i recently found a 1971 
    1971 5C No S nickel 
    that i seem to be getting mixed info about on one hand some sites are selling this exact same nickel for alot of money but when look up personal reviews other people say it has no value other than 5cent so can someone tell me what is it i need to be looking for to see if its worth anything 

  • baabb

    I found a 1994 P dime that looks gold, is this worth anything

    • Anonymous

      Baabb,

      Even if it is gold-plated (and not toned that color due to a chemical reaction with the metal), it would only be worth about $2 to $3.

  • Turveycotton

    ive got a copper nickel
    and need to know what its worth

  • Annandwill137

    hi im from england and dont know much about american coins but i do have 2 lincoln cents one 1938 and the other 1929 both in good condition but no letters under date can you tell me how much there worth please thanks rob

    • Anonymous

      Hi, Rob -

      Both your 1929 and 1938 pennies are worth around 5 to 10 cents each.

      Thank you for your question!

  • Jhill960

    I have a 1964 D penny with only the Lincoln side. Is it worth anything?

  • Mickyraye_2012

    Today i found a silver 1995 penny with no d or p markings on them and is really good condition! Is it worth anything

  • Everettdecker4861

    I have a 1927 Quarter with an M mint has anyone ever heard of that?

    • Anonymous

      Everett,

      The M is actually the initial of Hermon MacNeil, the designer of the Standing Liberty quarter. Yours, is in worn condition, is worth around $7 to $10.

  • Cannoli1

    I have a 1964 Jefferson nickel the tail side is not stamped the slug seems too thin.  Has anyone seen this?  I’ve seen blanks but mine is not smooth.

    • Anonymous

      Cannoli,

      Hmm, if you could post a pic here on the comments forum that would be most appreciated. Thanks!

    • Cannoli1

      Here are the photos.  As I said before it is thinner than a regular nickel also.

      • Anonymous

        Hi, Cannoli -

        I’m actually not sure what to make of that. The fact that it is thinner, though, suggests it may have been altered in some way after it left the mint, because normally if a planchet (blank coin) was thinner than usual, it would still receive a decent, proper strike by the die (which produces the design on coins).

        Thank you for your question!

  • Cannoli1

    Joshua,
    What do think about the pictures have you seen a nickel like this?  Any thoughts?

  • mr. k.

     the 1979 susan b anthony near date wide rim,,is worth money.Do you know the value?I have at least 15 or so in B.U condition.thank you for a reply,,MR. K

    • Anonymous

      If B.U. (uncirculated), 1979 near date (also called “wide rim”) Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth around $30 to $40 each.

  • Feliisha

    I have a 1953 quarter, 3 Indian/buffalo nickels: 1930, 1936 and 1937, I also have a 1939 mercury dime and a 1971 white cent, don’t know if they’re worth anything but I’ll hold on to them

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Feliisha -

      You have a nice little collection of common but obsolete United States coinage there. Here’s a breakdown of the your coins’ values assuming they’re in typical worn condition:

      1953 Washington quarter: $6
      1939 Mercury dime: $3
      1930, 1936, and 1937 Buffalo nickels: $1 to $2
      each
      1971 “white ” cent: face value (this coin most likely was plated with pewter or another light colored metal and is thus considered altered)

  • Ladydame7

    I have a 1966 penny with 2 memorials on the back, the first is the image meant to be there, the second is rotated overlaying 1/2 the underlying image can you help me with this please. ladydame

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Normally, if a coin is struck multiple times on one side, it should also have been on the other side, too. Is Lincoln’s image doubled? If not, I suspect the Memorial image doubling may have been done outside the mint and your coin may only be worth face value. I suggest you take your coin to a reputable dealer nearby to verify. Here’s a search engine where you can find trustworthy dealers near you: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

    • Ladydame7

       Thank you very much the coin looks to be double stamped on the front as the lettering disappears off the edge of the coin.

  • Twilson440

    I have a buffalo Nickle that has no date very worn, does this coin have any value?

  • Frances

    Frances
    I have a dime from 1917 and a penny from 1903, can you tell me there worth.

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      In typical worn condition, a 1917 Mercury dime is worth around $3 to $5 and an Indian cent about $2.

  • Eddie_jody

    I have a 1926 Peace Dollar excellent condition, how much is it worth!

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Eddie,

      With current silver values, it’s worth at least $25 to $30.

  • Maddangel48

    Hello,  I have 4 nickels the dates are1906,1905,1912,1907 are they worth anything on the back they have a V and cents under them they are circuleated.

    Thanks Maddangel48@aol.com

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Maddangel,

      Each is worth around $2 in typical worn condition.

  • Maira Shane

    Bad info. All your change is worth saving. Its all made out of the same stuff as bullets and the metal is getting more expensive. So its actually a good idea to save all of it. But there are some harder to find dates. Also, other countries are using up the metal.

  • Chadbailey28

    Hi
    I have an 1882 3-cent nickle with the three columns on the back.
    It’s in fine to very fine condition.
    I’ve been told anything from $50 to $500 I’m confused?
    Any info?

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Chad,

      Assuming your coin has not damage (just honest wear) it is worth more like $100 to $200 in the grade range you describe. Hope this helps!

  • http://profile.yahoo.com/QLJDK43G4ERKFMOAI3HOOVEMNQ cw

    Hi Joshua, I haven’t looked at my coins for awhile , but I started again and found a 1969s lincoln penny. It has on the obverse side what looks like something round was pressed onto the coin and made a round deep indention close to the rim. I doesn’t go completely around the coin but shows about 4 deep indentions about 3/4 around the penny some long some short . The reverse has no changes. Coin is not real clean but shows all the lettering on both sides except the “B” in liberty has the pressed indention through it, and the #6 in the date has it also through it. It has a large date, and a clear “S”. Would this be from the machine as an error or, made by someone or something else? Just curious…..thanks 

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      CW,

      From the description you gave, it sounds like it was damaged in a machine, which doesn’t make this piece worth any more than face value in this case, but does make it a very interesting sight to behold.

  • DASILVASPAWN

    hello i have a silver penny from 1965 the edges are really thick and it kinda looks like the actual penny is indented…. at the top it says in god we trust but the edge kind of overlaps it … not a perfect circle but i would really like to know how much it would be worth or if its worth anything at all … please email me at dasilvaspawn@yahoo.com it would be greatly appriecated ,….    i cannot find it on the internet ANYWHERE !

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Dasilva,

      You either have a replica of a Lincoln cent, or you have a real Lincoln cent that was coated with pewter. In the case of the latter situation, your coin is worth only face value.

    • Robin

      A few years ago, I happened to ran across a “silver” nickel with the edges tampered as you describe in your posting and it only makes sense to me that these coins were at one point used as decorative pieces, jewelry ie. pendants, money clips, souvenir etc. You’ll see coins fitted to wiring on items as described above, at pawnshops, swapmeets, antiques stores, feed stores and touristic spots. So in answer to your question of value, it may be more valuable than its face value if it is part of a ring, pendant, bracelet etc as described above. Good luck to you.

  • Walterpam

    Are any of the “States” quarters worth more than their face value?

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Walter,

      In general, only Statehood quarters that are in mint state (uncirculated condition) or proof versions (these have a mirror-like surface and are included in special United States collectors’ sets) are worth more than face. Also, those that have been misstruck are also worth a premium.

  • lizzy

    i have a coin with the statue of liberty on it and it says same thickness of copper as the statue of liberty what is it wirth?

  • GIVE A HOOT

    I found a 1986 penny recently that may or may not be of significance. I might add that I spent 30-40 years of my life helping my father build his coin collection which was sold upon his death. This penny has an
    indentation…about the size of a BB. It is located directly above the bert in the word liberty. I also noticed that the rim..in that general area…is not as prominent as the remainder of the rim. My e-mail address is
    jhouston101@verizon:disqus .net    I think it is very possible this happened when it was minted. Please reply
    Thank you

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hoot,

      Would you please post a pic of your 1986 Lincoln cent here in the comment section? Thanks!

  • SINGH ASSOCIATES

    what is the current value of my one dime 1984 of U.S.A.

    AJIT KR SINGH

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hello,

      A 1984 dime is still worth face value, 10 cents (U.S.) if in worn condition.

  • birchtree@aol.com

    I posted a picture of my 1944 wheat back on facebookfuntimeif someone can tell me if this is steel back no mint

  • Diane

    I found a 1984 penny don’t see double ear. But this one has long I in liberty. None of my other 1984 have the long I.is t rare

  • Diane

    Anybody know anything about this 1984 I found with long I in liberty can’t tell if double ear but you can see long I. Is this a common thing don’t see it on my other 84s .thanks

  • Diane

    Had 1984 penny checked out was told there unfortunately was no premium on this coin dose this make it one of a kind or dose anyone else have one should auction off maybe what ya think

  • J.Saen

    Typical , If you have it — ain’t worth much. If I have it ithen it’s rare and worth a king’s ransom!
    Greed makes the world go DOWN!!!!

  • d

    I seen a 1971 jefferson nickel with a large D, stamped on the house. No where on the internet i found this. It’s worth?

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, D -

      Somebody put the D stamp on the back of the coin, which makes it an altered piece worth face value.

  • donnia

    I have a 1965 or 1963 dime, however the back of the dime is distorted due to an indention, the indention only effects the back you can see the outline of the head on the back and the vine is sorely distorted almost looks stretched out, my dad recieved this from the bank years ago and put it away, it is dark in color, does it have any value

  • Ladymk

    I have a 1964 penny that a magnet will stick to. It looks like it may be silver but has a slight coppery hue to it. What could it be?

  • lim

    i have a 1942 and a 1944 wheat penny in readable condition… are they rare?

  • Colin

    I have a 1948 wheat penny, is it worth anything more than one cent?

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Yes, Colin – A 1948 Lincoln cent is worth around 5 cents.

  • angel

    My brother found a penny that is metal gray in color the year is 1985 the mint mark is D we wanted to know it’s value and story behind this odd penny

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Angel -

      Beginning late in 1982, the U.S. Mint began making zinc pennies coated with a thin layer of copper. Sometimes, the copper layer wears off, or the coin was never even plated to begin with. If the coin wasn’t plated, the value could be has high as $50 to $100, though it’s possible the copper was removed due to a chemical reaction. Only a professional numismatist who can see the coin in hand could tel you if the coin was damaged by chemicals or simply never plated.

  • F.aviles

    I have a 1969s peny double diet

  • F.aviles

    I have a peny 1969s double die value

  • richyrich

    i have a 1969s-dd and 1972 -DD , 1984 d-dd five cent coins can any one tell me do i have something. richardgaytan49@yahoo.com

  • Andrew

    Hi ih i found a quarter with copper around it and its a 1974, way dose it have copper around it for and if this is worth money.Its to big to put in a soda machine because the copper around it its in realy good condition.thanks

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  • http://www.facebook.com/darrin.halstead.39 Darrin Halstead

    i have a ellerbroek’s coin from 1975 is it worth money

  • Tom

    I have a nickel plug that has a parchell stamp…..you can see that when it was struck it missed the plug but did stamp about a forth of the nickel… is there any value for something like this?

  • Carol

    I need help to make the value of a 1928 S peace dollar

    I attach the picture

  • Carol

    Hi Joshua!! Can you help me with the value of my 1928 S Peace dollar

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Carol!

      Thanks for your question. A typical 1928-S peace dollar is worth about $35 to $40.

  • Guest

    Hi Joshua!! Can you help me with the value of 1928 S Peace dollar.

  • Erica

    I have a 1956 wheat penny with a big letter k on back dose anyone know what that means

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Erica -

      Sounds like somebody engraved their initial on the coin. Unfortunately, it is considered “altered” by most coin collectors, but I’m sure there is some story behind that piece. If only coins could talk!

  • dave

    joshua where can i go in pasadena ca area to go and have fair appraial and possible sell? thanks

  • rob

    just wondering. i’ve got a 1973 5c piece. with jefferson upright but the other side is upside down. is this generally done with US currency or is this a miss-print?

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Rob,

      Yes, a rotation on United States coins usually means one side is 180 degrees in orientation from the other side. So, if you have a coin right side up in front of you and turn it to the left or right, the other side will be facing you upside down.

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  • Ryan Shakes

    I have a 1939 wheat penny,1940 wheat penny,1944 wheat penny,1955 d penny,and a 1955 double die penny.And i want to know how much is for all of them

  • jack

    i have a dime from 1813. is it worth anything

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Jack -

      No U.S. dimes were struck in 1813, so it sounds like you have some type of novelty piece.

  • charles Thomas

    I have an 1831 silver dollar that says E pluribus unum on the front can someone tell me if this is worth something

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Charles -

      That should be an 1881 silver dollar; it’s worth at least silver value, which given the weight of Morgan dollars is presently about $27. I can’t tell if it’s polished (not good) or a high-end mint state coin from the photo.

  • http://www.facebook.com/vweisel Valerie Luzzi Weisel

    Ok…so I’ve been saving random coins since I was little and I’m just starting to look through a few. I have a silver US quarter from 1935 that I think is worth something and the other coin that is boggling my mind, is a 1945? (it’s hard to read what’s next to the 4) penny that is a dark grayish/blue color. It has wheat on the back and the word “COPY”. I have other coins..some canadian, one brazilian and a couple european.

    • JoshuaTheFunTimesGuide

      Hi, Valerie! Thanks for your question. Your 1935 Washington quarter is worth at least $6 to $8. Your gray Lincoln cent sounds like a replica of the common but novel 1943 steel cent. For more info on steel cents, be sure to check this post out: http://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/2008/09/1943_lincoln_cent.php