Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby, but did you know that coins with errors can be worth a fortune? Sometimes, a small mistake in the minting process can create a unique, valuable coin that collectors will pay big money for. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most valuable error coins ever discovered. These odd and rare coins prove that weirdness can be worth a lot!
What Are Error Coins?
Error coins are coins that were minted with mistakes. These mistakes can happen for several reasons, like using the wrong materials or stamping the coin with the wrong design. While most coins are made with strict quality control, these rare errors slip through and end up being worth a lot to collectors. If you ever notice a coin that looks odd, it might be an error coin. Keep reading to learn about some valuable coin errors that have sold for huge amounts!
Valuable Error Coins to Watch For
Here’s a list of some of the most valuable error coins and what they sold for:
- 1900 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet: $141,000
- 1999 Lincoln Cent Muled With a Roosevelt Dime: $138,000
- 1905 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet: $123,375
- 2001-D Lincoln Cent Muled With a Roosevelt Dime: $114,000
- “Clover Leaf” Eisenhower Dollar Struck on Three Dimes: $105,000
- 1970-S Washington Quarter Struck on a 1898 $5 Coin: $93,000
- Sacagawea Dollar Muled With a Statehood Quarter: $88,125
- 1904 $20 Liberty Double Eagle Struck Off Center: $79,313
- 1913 Buffalo Nickel Struck on a Half Eagle Planchet: $78,000
- 1880-S Morgan Dollar Struck Off Center: $72,000
These error coins are extremely rare, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Famous Error Coins and Their Stories
1900 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet
Only three of these error coins exist, and no one knows for sure if they were made by mistake or on purpose. This coin was made using a gold planchet instead of the usual copper material for pennies. In 2013, the best condition example sold for an incredible $141,000!
1999 Lincoln Cent Muled With a Roosevelt Dime
This unique error coin combines two different coins. On one side, it’s a Lincoln penny, and on the other, it’s a Roosevelt dime! One of these rare mules was found by accident in a roll of pennies from a bank, and it sold for $138,000 in 2006.
Clover Leaf Eisenhower Dollar Struck on Three Dimes
This unusual error involved three dime planchets being struck together, forming a clover leaf shape. The only known example sold for $105,000 in 2021.
List of Valuable Error Coins
Below is a table of some of the most valuable error coins and their auction prices:
| Error Coin | Value |
|---|---|
| 1900 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet | $141,000 |
| 1999 Lincoln Cent Muled With a Roosevelt Dime | $138,000 |
| 1905 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet | $123,375 |
| 2001-D Lincoln Cent Muled With a Roosevelt Dime | $114,000 |
| “Clover Leaf” Eisenhower Dollar Struck on Three Dimes | $105,000 |
| 1970-S Washington Quarter Struck on 1898 $5 Coin | $93,000 |
| Sacagawea Dollar Muled With a Statehood Quarter | $88,125 |
| 1904 $20 Liberty Double Eagle Struck Off Center | $79,313 |
| 1913 Buffalo Nickel Struck on a Half Eagle Planchet | $78,000 |
| 1880-S Morgan Dollar Struck Off Center | $72,000 |
How to Spot Error Coins
Error coins are out there, and you might even find one in your pocket change. Here are some tips to help you spot them:
- Check the Color: If a penny isn’t copper or a dime isn’t silver, it could be an error.
- Look for Doubled Letters: Some coins are struck twice, causing a “shadow” effect on the design.
- Examine Both Sides: Coins that show different designs on each side (called mules) can be worth a lot.
- See if It’s Centered: Off-center strikes can increase a coin’s value, especially if the error is significant.
Conclusion
Error coins are rare and valuable treasures for collectors. Even though not every strange-looking coin is worth a fortune, it’s always exciting to find one that might be an error. By keeping an eye on your change and knowing what to look for, you might just discover a hidden gem. Happy hunting!
FAQ’s
What is the most valuable error coin ever sold?
The 1900 Indian Cent struck on a gold planchet sold for $141,000, making it one of the most valuable error coins in history.
How can I tell if I have an error coin?
Look for unusual colors, designs, or off-center strikes. If a coin seems strange, it might be an error coin.
Are error coins common?
No, error coins are rare because the minting process has strict quality controls. However, they can occasionally slip through, making them valuable collectibles.