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- 9 Coins From the 1990s That Are Worth Way More Than Face Value (financebuzz.com)
Your Old Change Jar Could Be Hiding a Small Fortune!
Hold onto your hats, folks, because that dusty old coin jar or forgotten piggy bank might just be a hidden treasure chest! While striking it rich with a single coin isn’t an everyday occurrence, especially if you’re not a seasoned collector, it’s definitely not out of the realm of possibility. In fact, some coins from the 1990s are proving to be quite the hot commodity on the resale market, potentially netting you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
So, before you dismiss that pile of loose change, take a moment to hunt for these nine ’90s coins that are worth far more than their face value.
The Nifty Nine: Coins from the ’90s That Could Boost Your Bank Account
1. 1992-D Close AM Lincoln Penny
Estimated Market Value: $1,000
Talk about a happy accident! In 1992, some Lincoln pennies minted in Denver accidentally received a reverse design intended for the following year.
The tell-tale sign? A noticeably smaller gap between the “A” and “M” in “America” on the coin’s back.
Coin experts at the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) estimate only about a dozen of these rarities are known to exist. One even fetched over $3,500 at auction, and they continue to spark bidding wars when they surface!
2. 1995-W Silver Eagle Proof
Estimated Market Value: $3,000
Don’t expect to stumble upon this one easily! The 1995 Silver Eagle dollar coins minted at West Point were scarce even in their own time, boasting the lowest mintage in the entire Silver Eagle proof series. While its peak auction record soared past $86,000 (according to PCGS), these coins remain highly sought after by collectors, with several currently listed for over $3,000 on the resale market.
3. 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Penny
Estimated Market Value: $640
Even if it’s seen better days, a 1999 wide AM Lincoln penny could still bring in over $100. PCGS notes that pennies from 1998, 1999, and 2000 can have a reverse error where the “A” and “M” in “America” are spaced further apart, but the 1999 version is considered the rarest. A coin in moderate condition (MS66 grade) is currently listed for $640, and those in better shape could be worth thousands!
4. 1997-W Jackie Robinson $5 Coin
Estimated Market Value: $1,500
With just over 5,000 of these commemorative coins minted at West Point in 1997, their low mintage has translated into high value. Since these were never circulated, collectors expect pristine condition.
A perfectly graded (MS70) example sold for over $6,000 in 2010. Even at slightly lower grades (like MS69), you might find them on the resale market for around $1,500.
5. 1995 Double Die Lincoln Penny
Estimated Market Value: $195
This one is a bit more common than some of its ultra-rare counterparts, but still a fantastic find! The “double die” effect on the front of the 1995 Lincoln penny is visible to the naked eye, and these coins regularly sell for a few hundred dollars. PCGS reports an auction record exceeding $5,000 for one in excellent (MS69) condition.
6. 1996-W Olympic Cauldron $5 Coin
Estimated Market Value: $1,500
To mark the 100th anniversary of the Olympic Games hosted in the U.S. in 1996, the U.S. Mint released a series of Olympic coins.
This golden $5 “cauldron” coin, featuring an athlete lighting the torch, is particularly valuable due to its limited mintage. These beauties can command $1,500 or more on the resale market.
7. 1998-S Close AM Lincoln Penny Proof
Estimated Market Value: $200
Another Lincoln penny with an “America” twist! The 1998 proof pennies minted in San Francisco are valuable if the “A” and “M” in “America” on the reverse are closely spaced, almost touching. Even in lesser conditions, these can be worth hundreds, with a perfectly graded (PR70) example reaching an auction record of $4,500.
8. 1997-P Special Mint Jefferson Nickel
Estimated Market Value: $490
These 1997 Jefferson nickels, specifically those with a satin finish from a special Botanic Garden Coin set, are quite rare. Because they were initially uncirculated, most are in excellent condition. The auction record for one of these is just over $1,000, according to PCGS.
9. 1990 No-S Lincoln Penny Proof
Estimated Market Value: $2,800
Talk about elusive! These proof pennies are missing the “S” mint mark that would indicate they were struck in San Francisco.
PCGS estimates fewer than 200 of these exist, making them incredibly valuable. Even in lower grades, these coins have sold for over $2,000, with an auction record for a PR69 graded coin topping $20,000!
The Bottom Line: Get Your Coins Checked!
Unearthing valuable items you already own is a fantastic way to boost your income. However, before you start dreaming of a spending spree, it’s crucial to get a professional assessment of your coins.
Even if you believe you have one of the treasures listed above, a professional grading can significantly impact its value, potentially turning a modest payday into a substantial one. Happy hunting!
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