Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that allows collectors to dive deep into history, art, and even investment opportunities. Among the vast array of U.S. coins, some stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and sheer beauty. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a beginner, collecting U.S. coins can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
From legendary gold pieces to rare error coins, the U.S. Mint has produced a variety of coins that capture the nation’s rich history. In this blog, we’ll explore the 10 best U.S. coins to collect, each offering unique characteristics and significant value in the numismatic world. These coins are highly coveted by collectors worldwide and offer a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of American coinage. If you’re looking to build or expand your collection, these iconic coins should definitely be on your radar.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history. It was minted in small quantities, and only five known examples exist today. This coin was struck without the official approval of the U.S. Mint, making it highly collectible and valuable.
The Liberty Head design was used on U.S. nickels from 1883 until 1912, but the 1913 edition stands out because of the mystery surrounding its production. Collectors treasure it for both its rarity and its place in numismatic history. In 2018, one of these coins sold for over $4.5 million at auction. With its unique story and limited number, it remains a top choice for serious collectors.
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is a must-have for any serious coin collector. It is one of the first coins to feature the image of President Abraham Lincoln, introduced in 1909 to mark his 100th birthday. However, a small group of these coins was released with the initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) on the reverse, which led to controversy.
The initials were quickly removed after complaints, making the 1909-S VDB Cent a rare and sought-after item. Only about 484,000 of these coins were minted, and their scarcity and historical significance make them highly valuable, often selling for thousands of dollars in good condition.
3. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a legendary coin in American numismatics, not only for its beauty but also for its history. Designed by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin features an iconic depiction of Lady Liberty walking with a torch and olive branch.
The U.S. government had plans to mint this coin in large numbers, but it was halted due to the Great Depression and the gold standard’s collapse. Most of the 1933 coins were melted down, making it incredibly rare. A single coin was sold at auction for over $7.5 million, further cementing its status as one of the most valuable U.S. coins to collect.
4. 1916 Mercury Dime
The 1916 Mercury Dime is a favorite among collectors due to its stunning design and relatively low mintage. The coin was struck during the first year of the coin’s production, and its design features a profile of Lady Liberty wearing a winged cap, which some mistakenly thought represented the Roman god Mercury.
It was designed by Adolph A. Weinman and has remained popular due to its artistic appeal. While the 1916 Mercury Dime is not as rare as some other coins on this list, its historical significance and the fact that it was only minted in relatively small numbers make it a valuable addition to a collection.
5. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is considered one of the first silver dollars ever struck by the U.S. Mint. The coin features an image of Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse, and a bald eagle on the reverse. Only a few thousand of these coins were produced, and their historical importance makes them incredibly valuable.
The 1794 silver dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history because it represents the birth of the U.S. Mint’s coinage. A 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar was sold for over $10 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold, further highlighting its appeal to collectors.
6. 1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a coin that stands out due to a significant error in its production. During World War II, the U.S. Mint shifted from copper to steel for penny production to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a small number of copper pennies were mistakenly struck in 1943. These coins are extremely rare, with only a few surviving examples known to exist.
The value of a 1943 Copper Penny can be in the range of several hundred thousand dollars, depending on its condition. This error makes the coin a fascinating piece of U.S. Mint history and a top pick for collectors who enjoy searching for rare and unique coins.
7. 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is another masterpiece from Augustus Saint-Gaudens, known for its exceptional design and fine details. The coin was initially minted with a high-relief design, but the intricate details made it difficult to strike properly. As a result, the Mint produced only a small number of these high-relief coins before switching to a lower-relief version.
The 1907 Ultra High Relief coins are highly sought after by collectors for their beauty and rarity. Only a few hundred were ever made, and the coin is considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coins ever designed, contributing to its enduring appeal.
8. 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is a famous error coin that is highly prized by collectors. It features a noticeable doubling of the obverse design, especially on the word “Liberty” and the date “1955.” The error was caused by the die used to strike the coins being misaligned, resulting in the doubled features.
While the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is not as rare as some of the other coins on this list, its striking design and historical error make it a favorite among collectors. In excellent condition, these coins can fetch high prices, making them a key part of many collections.
9. 1999 Wide AM Reverse Lincoln Cent
The 1999 Wide AM Reverse Lincoln Cent is another error coin that has become a popular choice for collectors. The error occurs due to a misalignment in the minting process, where the “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse was spaced wider than normal.
This error is more commonly found in the 1999 coin year, and only a small number of these coins were released into circulation. Collectors value the 1999 Wide AM coin for its rarity and unique design feature, as it differs from the standard 1999 Lincoln Cents. These coins are highly sought after, especially in mint condition, making them a great addition to any collection.
10. The 1913 Indian Head Gold Coin
The 1913 Indian Head Gold Coin is another popular collectible, known for its stunning design and historical significance. The coin features a Native American chief in full headdress on the obverse and a bald eagle on the reverse. Only a limited number of these coins were minted, and they are considered one of the most beautiful and sought-after gold coins in U.S. history.
Due to their rarity and the allure of gold, these coins have continued to grow in value over the years, with some fetching prices upwards of $1 million at auctions. Collectors and investors alike are drawn to the 1913 Indian Head Gold Coin for its beauty and historical importance.
Conclusion:
Collecting U.S. coins is more than just acquiring valuable items—it’s about preserving history, appreciating art, and sometimes making a profitable investment. The 10 coins listed here represent some of the most sought-after pieces in the numismatic world. Whether you’re drawn to their rarity, historical significance, or aesthetic beauty, each coin tells a unique story.
As you begin or continue your coin-collecting journey, these coins can serve as a solid foundation for an impressive collection. Remember, every coin has its own tale, and owning one means becoming part of that story.
What is the rarest U.S. coin to collect?
The rarest U.S. coin is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, with only five known examples.
Why is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle so valuable?
Its rarity and historical significance, as most were melted down, make the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle extremely valuable.
Are error coins worth collecting?
Yes, error coins like the 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent are highly valued due to their rarity and unique features.
How can I determine the value of my coins?
The value depends on factors like rarity, condition, demand, and historical importance. Consulting a professional numismatist or using reputable guides can help.
I have some rare coins and some very old coins