12 Rare Coins Minted in the Early 1900s Now Worth Thousands

The charm of vintage coins lies in their ability to carry history within their design. Coins minted more than a century ago can now sell for thousands, depending on their rarity and condition. Factors like limited circulation, mint marks, and historical events all contribute to their increasing value. Collectors often spend years tracking down the few remaining examples of these coins.

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1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous rare coins in U.S. history, with only five known surviving specimens. This coin is valuable because it was struck without proper authorization, making it an error coin. The story behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel adds to its mystique, as it was never intended for public release, and its production remains a mystery. Coins in good condition can fetch anywhere between $3 million and $4 million at auction. Its extreme rarity and the fascinating history behind its creation have made it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a true trophy coin for collectors, as it is considered one of the most significant pieces in American coinage. Due to its scarcity, the few surviving examples have been sold for astronomical prices at public auctions. The coin’s design features Liberty wearing a winged cap, and it remains a symbol of both mystery and numismatic achievement. Collectors view it as a holy grail in U.S. coin collecting. Its value continues to increase as it becomes more difficult to find.

1907 Indian Head Eagle ($10 gold)

The 1907 Indian Head Eagle is a gold coin designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and it’s highly prized due to its beautiful and iconic design. This coin is rare because of its limited mintage and its historical significance as part of the early 20th-century gold coinage. The Wire Rim variety, which was one of the first produced, is especially rare and can fetch $20,000 to $100,000 depending on the coin’s condition. The intricate design of an Indian chief on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse has made this coin a favorite among collectors. Its value continues to rise as fewer examples survive in pristine condition.

Collectors prize the 1907 Indian Head Eagle for its artistic design and the historical importance it holds within the U.S. coinage system. It is one of the most sought-after U.S. gold coins, and examples in mint condition are particularly valuable. The coin’s rarity is amplified by the fact that many were melted down for their gold content in the years following their release. Today, it’s seen as a prime example of American gold coinage and is a staple for high-end collectors. Those seeking a beautiful and valuable addition to their collection often turn to this coin.

1909 Indian Head Eagle ($10 gold)

The 1909 Indian Head Eagle, another gold coin designed by Saint-Gaudens, shares much of the same appeal as the 1907 version but with slightly higher mintage numbers. Even so, it remains rare due to its relatively small mintage, with fewer than 100,000 coins produced. Coins in excellent condition can sell for $6,000 to $10,000, depending on the grade. The design features a Native American chief on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse, which continues to captivate collectors today. As a gold coin, its value is also tied to the precious metal content, but the rarity and demand among collectors drive up the price.

Because of its limited mintage and its association with one of the most respected designers in U.S. coinage, the 1909 Indian Head Eagle remains a key date in American gold coin collections. Collectors who specialize in U.S. gold coins often seek out this piece for its design and rarity. High-quality examples in original, uncirculated condition command significant premiums. The coin is also a favorite for investors looking to add rare gold to their portfolios. With its rich history and stunning design, it continues to be a desirable item for numismatists.

1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime, minted in Denver, is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the Mercury dime series. With only 264,000 coins produced, it has become a highly coveted piece among collectors. In good condition, this coin can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the grade and preservation. The value increases dramatically for higher-grade examples, especially those with full bands on the reverse. Its rarity, along with its status as a key date, has solidified its place in U.S. coin collecting history.

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is considered a cornerstone of any Mercury dime collection due to its scarcity and historical significance. Because of its limited mintage, it is difficult to find in excellent condition, making high-quality examples incredibly valuable. The coin’s design, featuring the Roman goddess Liberty, is widely admired and adds to its desirability. Collectors who focus on complete series of dimes will often pay a premium for this particular coin. Its value is likely to continue increasing as fewer examples remain in pristine condition.

1917 Standing Liberty Quarter

The 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter is famous for its distinctive design, showing Lady Liberty standing with a shield. Its rarity stems from the low mintage numbers of certain varieties and the public’s objection to the exposed breast on the original design. The 1917 quarter was modified to cover it more fully, making the early versions rare. In higher grades, this coin can be worth $1,500 to $25,000, depending on its condition. Its design and the historical changes made to it make it an important part of U.S. coinage.

Collectors are drawn to the 1917 Standing Liberty Quarter for both its design and its historical relevance. The coin was part of a larger series that saw the introduction of new designs for U.S. silver coins, and the modifications made to it make it a key date. Those seeking high-quality examples in uncirculated or near-mint condition will find that the value increases significantly. Its aesthetic appeal and rarity make it a favorite among collectors of U.S. quarters. The 1917 quarter continues to be one of the most valuable and collectible in the series.

1900 Lafayette Dollar

The 1900 Lafayette Dollar was minted to commemorate the 1900 Paris Exposition and features the busts of George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette. Its rarity comes from the limited mintage and the fact that many of these coins were melted down after production, reducing the number of surviving examples. The value of this coin today can range from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on its condition. As one of the first U.S. commemorative silver dollars, it holds both historical and numismatic significance. The coin is sought after for both its gold content and the historical event it represents.

Because of its limited production and the fact that many coins were melted after the exposition, the 1900 Lafayette Dollar remains rare and valuable. Collectors of U.S. commemorative coins consider this one of the most important coins in the series. Its historical connection to the Paris Exposition and the legacy of George Washington and Lafayette adds to its appeal. In high-grade condition, this coin commands a significant premium. For collectors focused on U.S. silver dollars, the Lafayette Dollar is a must-have.

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the most iconic coins in American numismatics, minted at the San Francisco Mint. What makes this coin rare is its low mintage of only about 484,000 coins, making it one of the rarest Lincoln pennies. The designer’s initials, VDB, were initially placed on the reverse, but after public backlash, they were removed shortly after production. As a result, the 1909-S VDB has become a key date in the Lincoln cent series. This coin now sells for anywhere between $5,000 and $50,000 depending on its condition.

The value of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent has risen due to its scarcity and historical significance. High-quality examples in mint condition are highly sought after, with collectors valuing those with strong details and original color. Finding one in excellent condition is rare, as many were heavily circulated during their time. Collectors often look for coins that have been professionally graded and authenticated. For numismatists, this coin remains one of the most desirable and valuable in the Lincoln penny series.

1911 Indian Head Quarter Eagle ($2.50)

The 1911 Indian Head Quarter Eagle is a rare U.S. gold coin, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, who is known for creating some of the most iconic coin designs in U.S. history. Its rarity stems from its limited mintage and the fact that many of these coins were melted down over the years. Coins in excellent condition today can be worth anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000. The coin features an intricate design of a Native American chief on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, which remains a favorite among collectors. Its status as a key coin in the Indian Head series further boosts its value.

Collectors are drawn to the 1911 Indian Head Quarter Eagle for its historical importance and beautiful design. Because of its low mintage and gold content, the coin has remained valuable over time. The coin’s value is highly dependent on its grade, with higher-quality examples commanding the highest prices. As a key date in the Indian Head series, this coin is a staple for collectors of U.S. gold coins. If you come across one in excellent condition, it’s an opportunity to own a significant piece of U.S. numismatic history.

1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Quarter Eagle ($2.50)

The 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Quarter Eagle was minted to commemorate the opening of the Panama Canal, an important event in U.S. history. This coin is rare because it was part of a limited mintage, and its design is unique, featuring a bold eagle and a depiction of the canal. It’s valued between $20,000 and $30,000, depending on condition, and remains a highly sought-after coin in U.S. gold coin collections. Its historical connection to the exposition makes it a symbol of American progress and ingenuity.

This coin is rare because it was produced specifically for the Panama-Pacific Exposition and had a limited circulation. Many of these coins were hoarded or melted down over the years, reducing the number of survivors. The unique design and historical significance of the coin make it highly desirable among collectors. The 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Quarter Eagle continues to be a major piece for those interested in early 20th-century U.S. gold commemoratives. Its value is likely to continue to rise as fewer examples remain in excellent condition.

1914-D Lincoln Cent

The 1914-D Lincoln Cent, minted in Denver, is another key date in the Lincoln penny series. It’s rare because of its low mintage of just over 1 million coins, and finding one in high-grade condition is incredibly difficult. Depending on the coin’s grade, the value ranges from $500 to $7,000. It’s a highly sought-after coin by collectors who focus on the Lincoln cent series, and it often commands a premium due to its scarcity. The 1914-D Lincoln Cent is considered a staple for serious collectors, particularly those looking to complete their set of key dates.

The value of the 1914-D Lincoln Cent is driven by its rarity and historical significance. The coin’s appeal is further enhanced by the design, featuring Abraham Lincoln’s portrait, which has been used on U.S. currency for decades. Even circulated examples can command a premium over more common pennies, making this a highly collectible piece. As one of the more challenging coins to find in good condition, it continues to hold a special place in U.S. coin collecting. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or just starting out, the 1914-D Lincoln Cent is a key date to keep an eye on.

1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($20 gold)

The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a gold coin known for its beauty and rarity. Struck at the Denver Mint, it is one of the rarest coins in the Saint-Gaudens series, with only about 180,000 pieces minted. Because of its scarcity and collector demand, this coin now commands $40,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on the condition. The coin features a stunning design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, with Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch on the obverse, and an eagle in flight on the reverse. Its value continues to rise as fewer high-quality examples remain in circulation.

The 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is highly prized by collectors of U.S. gold coins due to its low mintage and historical significance. Its gold content adds value, but it’s the coin’s rarity and artistic design that truly drive its worth. The coin remains a major focus for those collecting gold pieces from the early 20th century. For investors, it also offers potential for long-term growth as its rarity ensures its lasting appeal. If you’re looking for a rare and valuable gold coin, the 1927-D Saint-Gaudens is a standout choice.

1921 Peace Dollar

The 1921 Peace Dollar was the first year the U.S. Mint produced this coin, which was designed to commemorate the end of World War I. The 1921 Peace Dollar is particularly rare due to the high demand and limited production during that year, with only about 1 million coins minted. Its value today ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on its condition, with higher-grade examples fetching even more. The coin features a depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle in flight on the reverse, symbolizing peace and the end of war. The 1921 Peace Dollar is a key coin for collectors of U.S. silver dollars.

The 1921 Peace Dollar’s appeal lies not only in its low mintage but also in the historical context behind its creation. The coin’s design, which was the first to feature the word Peace in its inscription, makes it a significant part of U.S. coin history. While the 1921 issue is rarer than subsequent years in the series, its value is further enhanced by its status as one of the first coins to be minted after the war. This silver dollar is a must-have for collectors focused on 20th-century U.S. coins, and its value continues to appreciate as fewer well-preserved examples remain. Its place in history, along with its beauty, ensures that the 1921 Peace Dollar remains highly collectible.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.