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Could your spare change be worth a fortune? Rare coins occasionally turn up in circulation, and some have fetched millions at auction. Here are a few to look out for:
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is a holy grail for collectors. With only five known examples, this unofficial release has sold for $4.56 million. Check your nickels for a 1913 date and no mint mark.
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, struck as a diplomatic gift years after its date, has reached $7.68 million at auction. Any silver dollar from 1804 needs expert authentication.
One of the first silver dollars ever minted, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, has sold for a staggering $10 million. Its distinctive flowing hair design and unusual eagle on the reverse make it recognizable.
The 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar, potentially a presentation piece due to its low mintage, has sold for $2.16 million. The “S” mint mark under the eagle is key.
The 1894-S Barber Dime is exceptionally rare. With only 24 minted and nine known to exist, one sold for $1.99 million. The “S” mint mark on the back is crucial.
An experimental coin from the early U.S. Mint, the 1792 Birch Cent, has sold for $2.58 million. Any 1792 cent should be examined by a professional.
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a numismatic enigma. Though hundreds of thousands were minted, nearly all were melted down. Any 1933 $20 gold coin warrants expert verification.
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter, the first U.S. quarter, had a limited production run. One example sold for $1.74 million. Its Draped Bust design and unique eagle are identifying features.
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle’s intricate design proved too difficult for mass production, making it a rarity. This $20 gold coin has sold for $3.6 million.
The 1943 Copper Penny is a wartime anomaly. With most pennies made of steel that year, the few copper examples are highly prized.
One sold for $1.7 million. A magnet test (it won’t stick to copper) can help identify them.
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent, initially a pattern coin, later entered circulation. Its unique eagle design and date make it identifiable. One has sold for $172,500.
Finally, the 1793 Chain Cent, the first official U.S. cent, featured a controversial chain design on the reverse. One example sold for $2.35 million.