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Coin collectors, formally called numismatists, know the value of many coins and understand that the better shape a coin is in, the higher its resale value. But you may find coins in your family’s piggy bank, in your sofa cushions, in the car console – or wherever money is stored in your house – that are worth much more than face value.
How much more?
In the case of silver quarters minted between 1960 and 1964, the coins may be worth $10 or more due to the silver present in them. Some 1965 silver quarters are worth thousands due to their rarity.
The value of coins can increase depending on their rarity, age and condition. Also, if a specific coin is in demand among collectors, people may be willing to pay more for it.
Here are five coins you should keep an eye on if you’re looking to grow your wealth.
1963-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike
It is unique to find a Regular Strike 1963-D Silver Washington Quarter in uncirculated condition, simply because there were so many of these coins minted that year. The Denver Mint produced more than 135 million coins in the quarter. According to Bullion Shark, “Many collectors did not save rolls of coins of higher mintages compared to lower mintages, so many of these fell into circulation.”
Because the uncirculated coin is so uncommon, it could sell for $16,000 or more at auction. According to CoinValueChecker.com, one of these coins sold for $24,000 in 2022.
1965 Type 2 Clad Washington Quarter Business Strike
Silver dimes and quarters ended in June 1965, meaning these quarters have little intrinsic value.
But, due to the scarcity of 1965 coins, they may have more collector value, which is the case with Type 2 Clad Washington Quarters in Gem BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) condition. According to CoinValueChecker.com, it sold for $12,650 in 2005 – meaning if you could find it today, it would probably go for much more.
1962-D Silver Washington Quarter Regular Strike
Many Boomers and Gen Xers remember growing up with quarters depicting an eagle on the reverse of the coin. Today’s quarter features influential American women, whereas the quarter launched in 1999 featured the 50 states. The early quarters are of great value to collectors both for their silver content and their collectibility.
According to CoinValueChecker.com, a quarter made in 1962 in Denver sold for $18,400 in 2012.
1960 penny, no mint mark, deep cameo
Most pennies today don’t buy for much, but if you find a 1960s penny without a mint mark, its price can range from $4 to thousands – depending on its condition and features. According to CoinValueChecker.com, a large date proof 1960 penny with no mint marks and a dark cameo of Lincoln could be worth $2,600. Proof coins generally hold more value than regularly minted coins, as they are usually produced in limited quantities.
1960 Ben Franklin Half Dollar
Like the quarters of the early ’60s, half dollars were produced using real silver. This means that a 1960 Ben Franklin half dollar is worth at least $11 or $12 today, while the price of silver is about $30 per troy ounce. The coin contains .3617 ounces of silver, which is a little more than one-third of an ounce.
However, if you find one in pristine condition, it could be worth $300 or more, according to CoinTrackers.com. Since half dollars are quite uncommon and easy to identify, it may be worth checking the dates on any you have lying around.