Many people pass through life, never realizing that they might carry treasure in their pockets. While it may seem unlikely, your daily change can sometimes include far more valuable coins than their face value suggests.

Identifying these valuable coins can be both a rewarding hobby and a potentially lucrative endeavor. In this post, we’ll explore five practical methods to help you discern the gems hidden in your pocket change.

Look for Silver Content

Before 1965, many U.S. coins were made primarily from silver, adding considerable value beyond the coin’s denomination today. Dimes, quarters, and half dollars from 1964 and earlier are 90% silver and are worth many times their face value based on the current price of silver alone.

To check if a coin is silver, look at the edge; silver coins generally lack the copper stripe visible on many modern coins.

Check for Rare Mint Marks

Mint marks are small letters found on coins that indicate where the coin was made. Some mint marks can significantly increase a coin’s value. For example, a 1916-D mercury dime can be worth thousands due to its low mintage figures.

Familiar places to find mint marks include below the date or on the coin’s reverse. Familiarize yourself with valuable mint marks and keep an eye out for them.

Spot Error Coins

Error coins are the result of mishaps in the minting process and can be extremely valuable. Look for off-center strikes, double dies, and mismatched denominations (e.g., a dime’s obverse paired with a penny’s reverse).

These mistakes can create considerable interest among collectors and, correspondingly, might carry a high price tag.

Recognize Historical Significance

Some coins might carry value due to their historical context rather than their material or rarity. Coins that were minted during significant historical periods or that have unusual designs can be particularly valuable.

For example, WWII-era coins made from alternative metals due to metal shortages can be worth more to collectors.

Use Resources for Identifying Valuable Coins

Educating yourself is one of the best ways to identify valuable coins. Use coin identification books, online databases, and forums to learn more about what makes a coin valuable.

Regularly visiting sites that catalog coin values and features can also enhance your ability to quickly recognize valuable pieces in your change.

Identifying valuable coins in your pocket change can be an exciting and profitable hobby. With a little knowledge and some keen observation, you might find that you’re carrying around more than just spare change.

Keep these tips in mind the next time you receive change, and you may discover something extraordinary.

Are you eager to find out more about the coins you’ve collected? At Coin Exchange NY, we’re here to help. Give us a call or send us a live chat to have your coins appraised by our experienced team.

We take pride in educating our patrons and providing expert advice on all things related to coins.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply learn more, trust us to guide you through the fascinating world of numismatics.