You don’t have to be a coin collector to recognize that some nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars are worth far more than their face value. A coin’s rarity often determines its value, and these coins can increase in value over time. If you’ve come across some old or unusual-looking coins, it may be wise to have them appraised.
However, consider this step only if you are confident that they have significant value, as professional appraisals can be expensive. Before you spend any money or drop that curious old nickel into a wishing well, conduct a quick online search. This allows you to determine whether your coins are worth a significant amount.
Remember that your collection could be worth more than you realize, so take the time to discover the potential hidden in those small pieces of history. When it comes to rare coins, keeping the right ones can be a profitable decision. Here are five rare coins worth keeping in your collection in 2025.
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1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a rare find in the world of coin collecting. Only a few were minted, and almost none remain today. Of the few that exist, two are housed in private collections, making them nearly impossible to find.
The most well-known of these coins, the Eliasberg specimen, has the highest PCGS grade of PR66. It first gained attention when it was sold for an incredible $1,480,000 in 1996. In March 2001, the coin made headlines again when it was auctioned off for approximately $1,840,000. Its value skyrocketed in 2005 when Legend Numismatics bought it for $4,150,000, and again in 2007 when it sold for a staggering $5 million.
While owning this particular coin may be a pipe dream, other coins in your possession could be worth far more than their face value of five cents. Keep an eye out for comparable treasures in your collection. The history of American coinage is rich and fascinating, with certain coins attracting enormous interest and value from collectors. Among these prized possessions are the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar and the 1940s Mercury Dime. Let’s look into what distinguishes these coins.
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar, minted between 1794 and 1795, stands out in the history of US currency. Its design resembles the size and weight of the Spanish dollar, a popular currency at the time. The obverse features a bust of Lady Liberty, exuding grace and freedom, while the reverse depicts an eagle encircled by a wreath, representing strength and unity.
The coin was created by renowned designer Robert Scot, who laid the groundwork for the United States Mint’s early designs. However, it was quickly replaced by the Draped Bust dollar.
According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin is extremely rare, with only 150 to 200 remaining. Its scarcity has caused prices to skyrocket, with one specimen fetching a staggering $6.6 million. Meanwhile, other 1794 MS graded coins have sold at auction for prices ranging from a few thousand to $100,000.
1940s Mercury Dime
Collectors will also appreciate the 1940s Mercury Dime, which was minted from 1916 to 1945. With approximately 21.5 million produced, these dimes remain an important part of numismatic history. These dimes, designed by the talented Adolph Alexander Weinman, continue to captivate collectors and history buffs. They have commanded auction prices of up to $8,519, making them a valuable find, especially if one is discovered among your family heirlooms.
While the 1940s Mercury Dime may not have reached the dizzying heights of the Flowing Hair Dollar, it does represent a significant return on what would otherwise be a forgotten coin in the back of a drawer. The appeal of these pieces stems not only from their monetary value, but also from their historical significance and the stories they tell about a bygone era.
The front side of this remarkable coin depicts a young Liberty wearing a winged cap, which represents freedom and progress. On the reverse, you’ll find a detailed olive branch encircling a fasces, which represents authority and unity.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This iconic coin, initially worth $20, was produced between 1907 and 1933. It was created by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and depicts Lady Liberty elegantly holding a torch and an olive branch against a backdrop of a radiant sun. The United States Capitol is also depicted, surrounded by 46 stars, which represent unity.
On the opposite side, an eagle soars with the sun rising behind it. An interesting fact is that some editions of this coin do not include the phrase “In God We Trust.” The 1907 version of the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is extremely valuable. A coin graded 68 is estimated to be worth $300,000, while the auction record for an MS67 grade was $276,000.
1909-S Indian Head Penny
With a mintage of just over 300,000, the 1909-S Indian Head Penny is a rare find for collectors. This penny was designed by James Barton Longacre and has an NGC Genuine grade. In 2021, one of these coins sold for $3,400 at auction, but some can be worth even more depending on their condition and grade.
