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Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that attracts enthusiasts from all walks of life. For those who have delved into this pastime, it’s likely that you have explored the values of rare coins that might still be circulating today. The market for rare coins is vibrant and dynamic, offering opportunities to buy and sell coins that could command substantial sums, particularly if they are in high demand.
Noteworthy Rare Coins with Impressive Auction Records
Here, we delve into a selection of remarkable coins, each with a significant auction record, as listed by the Professional Coin Grading Services. These coins exemplify the allure of rare coin collecting and the potential for substantial financial reward.
1967 Kennedy Half Dollar
- Auction Record: $6,995
The 1967 Kennedy Half Dollar is distinguished by its absence of a mint mark. From 1965 to 1967, the U.S. Mint intentionally omitted mint marks on coins to curb hoarding. Introduced in 1964 to commemorate President John F. Kennedy, this coin is sought after by collectors due to its historical context and rarity.
1925-S Lincoln Penny
- Auction Record: $54,625
The 1925-S Lincoln Penny, minted in San Francisco, is highly coveted among collectors. The San Francisco mint produced this particular wheat cent in limited quantities, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
1932-D Washington Quarter
- Auction Record: $143,750
This quarter was issued to commemorate the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. It holds a significant place in numismatic history and was produced until the Mint introduced the 50 State Quarters series in 1999. Its historical value contributes to its impressive auction record.
1943-S Jefferson Nickel
- Auction Record: $9,000
Part of the wartime series minted from 1942 to 1945, the 1943-S Jefferson Nickel is notable for its silver composition. Despite the Mint producing over 100 million of these nickels, many have been preserved by collectors, adding to the coin’s value.
1909-S V.D.B. Penny
- Auction Record: $168,000
The 1909-S V.D.B. Penny is one of the most celebrated Lincoln pennies. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the original coins featured his full name, which led to a public outcry. As a result, the initials were removed in subsequent mintings, making the original V.D.B. Pennies highly sought after. Only 484,000 of these coins were issued, contributing to their significant auction value.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
- Auction Record: $7,050
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny is notable for its unique error. A mistake during the minting process resulted in a doubled image on the reverse side of the coin. Of the 7.7 billion pennies minted in 1983, only approximately 5,000 exhibited this error, making them highly collectible.
1968 No S Roosevelt Dime
- Auction Record: $40,250
This rare dime is distinguished by the absence of the ‘S’ mint mark, a first for proof coins from the San Francisco Mint. It is believed that the Mint quickly identified and rectified the error, making this particular coin a rare find in the collecting community.
1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel
- Auction Record: $281,750
The 1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel is highly prized for its doubled date error. Designed by James Earle Fraser and minted between 1913 and 1938, this coin’s unique error makes it exceptionally valuable, with high demand in the numismatic market.
1944-D Lincoln Penny
- Auction Record: $115,000
The 1944-D Lincoln Penny is a rare anomaly in the world of coin collecting. Produced in the year copper was reintroduced after wartime shortages, this penny is notable for its zinc-coated steel composition, a carryover from 1943. Only about 30 of these steel pennies are believed to exist, driving their auction value into the six-figure range.
