11 Limited Edition U.S. Coins That Became Collector Targets
Did you know that some U.S. coins were made for just one year? These rare coins are often in high demand, especially among serious collectors. The fact that they were only produced for a short time makes them incredibly unique and desirable. Many of these coins are prized for their scarcity and the history behind them. If you’re a collector, it’s worth tracking down these one-year-only pieces before they become even harder to find.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous coins ever made, and it was minted as a result of a secretive effort by a few U.S. Mint workers. Only five of these coins were made, making them incredibly rare and valuable. As a result, they’ve become a major target for collectors, with one selling for over $4 million at auction in recent years. The rarity and historical intrigue behind these coins make them particularly valuable to collectors.
Despite being minted by the U.S. Mint, the coin’s production was unauthorized, leading to a long and fascinating history of mystery and speculation. With only a handful of them known to exist, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains a prized possession in the numismatic community. If you come across one, it’s wise to treat it as a rare treasure, as these coins rarely hit the market.
1943 Copper Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint was forced to switch to steel pennies due to copper shortages caused by World War II. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally struck during that year, making them incredibly rare. These coins are now valued at over $100,000 in some cases, depending on their condition. Collectors go after these rare pieces, hoping to find one among the thousands of steel pennies.
The story behind the 1943 Copper Penny adds to its allure, as it highlights an error made during a time of wartime urgency. Due to their rarity and the fact that they were only made during that one year, these pennies are highly prized. If you’re fortunate enough to spot one, it’s a coin worth keeping an eye on for future value growth.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the first year the coin was produced, commemorating the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. What makes this coin special is that it contains 90% silver, which was a rare composition for U.S. coins at the time. In the years following its release, these half dollars became increasingly valuable, with uncirculated examples reaching prices of $50 to $100 today.
The popularity of this coin surged due to its historical significance and the high silver content. After 1964, the U.S. Mint reduced the silver content of half dollars, making the 1964 version even more desirable. Collectors target this coin because of its unique combination of history and precious metal content, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
1914-D Lincoln Wheat Cent
The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Cent is another highly sought-after coin that was only made in limited quantities due to low mintage numbers at the Denver Mint. Despite being produced as part of the regular coinage, this cent has become one of the most collectible coins in the U.S. The value of the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Cent is estimated to be around $1,000 for a well-preserved example, with mint state coins reaching higher prices.
What makes this coin a target for collectors is its historical significance and low mintage number. Its rarity, combined with the fact that it was released during a time of economic uncertainty, increases its appeal to those looking for a piece of numismatic history. As a result, the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Cent remains one of the top coins on collectors’ lists.
1922 Plain Lincoln Wheat Cent
In 1922, the U.S. Mint mistakenly produced a batch of Lincoln Wheat Cents with no mintmark, leading to a series of plain cents. These coins were released in limited numbers, making them rare and valuable today. The 1922 Plain Lincoln Wheat Cent is now worth several thousand dollars in uncirculated condition, and it remains a top target for collectors.
This coin’s rarity stems from the mint’s error, which led to the lack of a mintmark on an otherwise typical coin. With fewer than 1 million of these coins produced, it’s no surprise that they’ve become highly desirable. Collectors often seek out this particular variety for its unique status in the series.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Cent
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Cent is famous for its double-struck error, which causes the coin’s date and lettering to appear more than once. This error made the coin one of the most collectible in the series, and it can now sell for several thousand dollars depending on its condition. Coins that are in mint condition or better can fetch upwards of $10,000.
The 1955 Double Die Cent is one of the most recognized error coins in U.S. history, making it a highly coveted item for collectors. The coin’s distinctive appearance and the story behind the error add to its value. As a result, this coin remains one of the most popular among those looking to build a high-quality collection of rare U.S. coins.
1914-S Lincoln Wheat Cent
The 1914-S Lincoln Wheat Cent was released with a low mintage at the San Francisco Mint, making it rare and difficult to find. Its value has increased over time, and it can now be worth anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on its condition. The coin’s rarity, combined with the fact that it was made during a time of change for the U.S. Mint, makes it an attractive option for serious collectors.
As one of the rarest coins in the Lincoln Wheat Cent series, the 1914-S stands out due to its limited production. Its scarcity means that when it does appear for sale, collectors often jump at the chance to add it to their collections. For those seeking rare coins, the 1914-S Lincoln Wheat Cent is a must-have.
1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is another coin that became valuable because of its low mintage. Released to commemorate George Washington’s 200th birthday, the 1932-D is particularly rare in good condition. The coin can be worth anywhere from $250 to $2,000, depending on its quality and preservation.
With only around 436,000 of these quarters produced, it is one of the lowest-mintage coins in U.S. history. Collectors are particularly drawn to its historical significance, as it was part of a special release during Washington’s bicentennial. The scarcity of the coin and its association with Washington make it an attractive item for those looking to complete their collections.
1893-S Morgan Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is known for its low mintage and has become one of the most coveted coins in the series. Released in San Francisco, only about 100,000 coins were produced, making it highly rare today. A well-preserved 1893-S Morgan Dollar can sell for upwards of $4,000, and in mint condition, it can fetch even more.
What makes the 1893-S Morgan Dollar particularly desirable is its combination of rarity and historical significance. The coin was released at a time when the U.S. was experiencing economic changes, adding to its historical allure. Collectors often seek out this coin as part of their efforts to complete a comprehensive Morgan Dollar collection.
1911-D Indian Head Gold Coin
The 1911-D Indian Head Gold Coin is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. With only 55,000 pieces minted, this coin is highly collectible, and prices can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the condition. The coin features a detailed portrait of an Indian chief, making it one of the most visually striking gold coins ever produced.
Due to its low mintage, the 1911-D Indian Head Gold Coin became a prime target for collectors looking for a piece of U.S. coin history. It has only become more valuable over time as fewer examples have survived. When a piece is found in good condition, it is quickly snapped up by collectors eager to add it to their portfolios.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a famous coin that became rare due to a minting error. The coin was struck with a partially damaged die, causing one of the buffalo’s legs to appear missing. This error makes the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel a major target for collectors, with coins in good condition often valued at $5,000 or more.
The three-legged error makes this coin unique, and it remains one of the most well-known coin mistakes in U.S. history. Because it was produced in limited numbers due to the die error, it is highly sought after by those looking for rare and valuable coins. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for one of these coins, especially if it has been well-preserved.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.