Discover 4 Hidden Rare Coins in Your Attic That Might Make You Rich!

Picture yourself digging through an old trunk in your attic and finding something you least expect—a little bit of history that would make you rich. Unusual coins are not just worth their financial value but also due to the interesting history they hold.

Some coins were accidentally minted, and others were minted in special situations, which made them very valuable when sold at auctions. This article features four unusual coins that may be lying in your attic, and how to spot them and know their value.

1. 1909-S V.D.B. Penny

The 1909-S V.D.B. Penny is one of the most famous and valuable American coins. It was the first coin in the Lincoln Cent series, featuring a portrait of Abraham Lincoln with a distinctive design.

What Makes It Special?

This penny was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials “V.D.B.” were placed on the reverse side. Due to controversy, the U.S. Mint quickly stopped producing these coins, leaving only 484,000 in circulation.

Could It Be in Your Attic?

If you have an old coin collection, check for a small “S” mint mark (San Francisco Mint) and “V.D.B.” initials on the reverse side.

Value and Rarity

• A worn-out 1909-S V.D.B. Penny can be worth $1,000+.
• A high-quality version can sell for $100,000+.
• In 2010, an exceptionally well-preserved penny was sold for $1.7 million.

2. 1943 Copper Penny

During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly minted in 1943, making them one of the rarest error coins.

Why Is It So Rare?

Only about 20 of these copper pennies are known to exist. Their rarity comes from the fact that copper was reserved for war supplies, and these coins were an unintentional mistake.

How to Identify It?

• Use a magnet – If the coin sticks, it’s steel (common). If it doesn’t stick, it might be a valuable copper penny.
• Color and weight – Copper pennies have a reddish-brown color and are heavier than steel pennies.

Market Price

• Even in worn condition, a 1943 copper penny can fetch $5,000 to $10,000.
• High-quality versions have sold for $1.7 million at auction.

3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most mysterious and valuable coins in American history. Only five of these coins are known to exist, and their origin is surrounded by intrigue.

Why Is It Famous?

In 1913, the U.S. Mint had already switched to the Buffalo Nickel design. However, a small number of Liberty Head Nickels were secretly minted, possibly by mint employees. Each of the five surviving coins has a well-documented history, making them legendary.

Could You Have One?

The chances of finding this coin are extremely low, but if you have old nickels from the early 1900s, it’s worth checking. Other nickels from this era can still hold significant value.

Market Value

• The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has been sold for $4.5 million.
• Its limited quantity and mysterious background make it one of the most sought-after coins.

4. 1804 Silver Dollar

Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Silver Dollar is one of the most prestigious and valuable coins in numismatics.

Why Is It So Special?

Strangely, no silver dollars were actually minted in 1804! Instead, these coins were minted in 1834 as diplomatic gifts but were marked with the earlier 1804 date. Only 15 of these coins exist, making them incredibly rare.

How to Identify It?

• Front Design – Features Lady Liberty surrounded by stars.
• Reverse Design – Displays the American Eagle with a shield.

Auction Price

The 1804 Silver Dollar has been sold for as much as $4.1 million.

Conclusion

If you have an old collection of coins, now is the perfect time to check! These rare coins might be lying unnoticed in an old drawer, attic trunk, or vintage coin book. Even if you don’t find one of these four coins, many other old coins are worth a fortune.