The world of coin collecting often highlights million-dollar rarities, but not every valuable coin comes with an astronomical price tag. Some coins remain underappreciated despite their rarity, historical value, or unique features. These hidden gems offer savvy collectors an opportunity to invest in coins that could significantly appreciate in value over time. Let’s look into nine undervalued coins and why they deserve a spot in your collection.
Steel Wheat Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint shifted from copper to zinc-coated steel for penny production to conserve copper for military use. While these 1943 steel cents are common in circulated condition, finding uncirculated examples can be challenging. High-grade steel pennies remain undervalued compared to their rarity.
Current Market Value: $10–$50 for circulated coins; up to $1,000 for uncirculated examples.
Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is a historic coin, being the last regular-issue half dollar struck in 90% silver. Despite its significance, it remains surprisingly affordable. As silver prices fluctuate, these coins could gain more attention from collectors.
Current Market Value: $10–$20 for circulated coins; $50–$100 for uncirculated examples.
Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent, a proof coin with a low mintage, is often overlooked by collectors. Those in high grades (PR69 or higher) are particularly desirable for their scarcity.
Current Market Value: $30–$100, depending on grade.
Lincoln Bicentennial Cents
In 2009, the U.S. Mint celebrated Abraham Lincoln’s 200th birthday with four unique penny designs, depicting different stages of his life. These coins were minted in smaller quantities than regular cents, and complete sets or high-grade examples remain undervalued.
Current Market Value: $1–$5 for circulated coins; $10–$50 for uncirculated sets.
War Nickel
From 1942 to 1945, the U.S. Mint produced nickels with a 35% silver composition to conserve nickel for wartime use. The 1942-P Jefferson Nickel, one of the first in this series, is often overlooked despite its historical significance and silver content.
Current Market Value: $1–$3 for circulated coins; $10–$50 for uncirculated examples.
Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar
The 1976 Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar commemorates the 200th anniversary of American independence. While the copper-nickel version is common, the 40% silver proof and uncirculated coins are less so, offering great value for collectors.
Current Market Value: $15–$25 for uncirculated silver coins; $30–$50 for proof versions.
Franklin Half Dollar
The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar is a key date in the series, with a low mintage of just over 2.4 million. Often overshadowed by the Kennedy Half Dollar, it has strong potential for future appreciation, especially in high-grade conditions.
Current Market Value: $15–$50 for circulated coins; $100–$300 for uncirculated examples.
Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a well-known key date, but coins in lower grades remain undervalued. With a mintage of only 264,000, even examples in “Good” condition are worth considering for their investment potential.
Current Market Value: $800–$1,200 in good condition; significantly higher for better grades.
Sacagawea Dollar
In 2000, special Sacagawea Dollars were included in Cheerios boxes as part of a promotion. These “Cheerios Dollars” feature a unique reverse design with detailed tail feathers, setting them apart from regular issues. Their relative scarcity makes them highly collectible.
Current Market Value: $1,000–$5,000, depending on condition.
Significant
Many of these coins are overshadowed by more famous collectibles or are too recent to have gained widespread attention. Others, like the war nickels and steel pennies, are undervalued despite their historical significance.
Their low mintages, unique designs, and connection to pivotal moments in history position them as strong candidates for future appreciation. Collecting these hidden gems now could give you an edge as the numismatic market evolves.
FAQs
Why are 1943 steel pennies valuable?
Uncirculated examples are rare and sought after.
What makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar special?
It’s the last half dollar minted in 90% silver.
Why are Lincoln Bicentennial cents undervalued?
They have unique designs and lower mintages.
What is a ‘Cheerios Dollar’?
A rare Sacagawea Dollar with a unique reverse design.
Are Franklin Half Dollars good investments?
Key dates like 1955 have low mintage and growth potential.
