The world of rare U.S. coins is filled with historical treasures, but few items hold as much intrigue and market value as commemorative coins from the 1800s. These early coins were minted to honor important Continue reading
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Why a Small Date vs. Large Date on a 1960 Lincoln Penny Makes All the Difference
In 1960, the U.S. Mint issued Lincoln pennies at Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D) featuring two distinct date styles: the Small Date and the Large Date. Though subtle at first glance, this variation Continue reading
This 2001 New York Quarter Has a Hidden Error Few Collectors Know About
The 2001 New York State Quarter is iconic in the 50 States Quarters series, featuring the Statue of Liberty and issued in est. 619 million pieces from Philadelphia and 655 million from Denver. Yet, among Continue reading
The 1970-S Quarter That Looked Normal Until Auctioneers Lost Their Minds
Most 1970 quarters are common circulating coins—with mintages of 136 million (no mint mark), 417 million (D), and 2.6 million proof quarters (1970‑S)—but one coin from the San Francisco proof line caused a sensation. It Continue reading
Why the 1974 Aluminum Penny Is a Legal Mystery — And a Collector’s Dream
In the early 1970s, rising copper prices threatened to make pennies worth more as metal than currency. To cut costs, the U.S. Mint conducted trials of alternative metals, including 96% aluminum alloy. From late 1973 Continue reading
Found in a Bible: This 1934 $500 Bill Just Sold at Auction for $20,000
In late 2024, a private collector uncovered a 1934 Federal Reserve $500 bill tucked inside their grandparents’ family Bible—untouched for decades. Printed in 1934, this small-size, green-seal high-denomination note featuring President William McKinley is an Continue reading
This $2 Bill Was Printed Twice by Accident — And Now It’s a Rarity
A recent discovery of a double-printed $2 bill stunned collectors worldwide—an unintentional minting error that has turned what was once a common note into a rare, high-demand collectible. Found during a routine sort, this double-printed Continue reading
Why the 1928 $100 Gold Certificate Is So Rare — And Why It’s Illegal to Own in Circulation
Issued in 1928, the $100 gold certificate is part of the first small-size gold certificates, replacing large-size notes. These carried a distinctive gold treasury seal and were redeemable for gold. Series 1928 included $10, $20, Continue reading
Why the 1869 $5 Rainbow Note Is the Most Colorful and Collectible U.S. Bill Ever Printed
The 1869 “Rainbow Note” $5 bill, officially designated Series of 1869 Legal Tender Note FR‑64, stands as the most visually stunning piece of American currency ever printed. With its vibrant hues and iconic imagery, this Continue reading
Rare Penny Found in Cookie Jar Sells for $35,000 – You Could Have Hidden Treasure
In 2025, Ohio resident Emily Dawson made an unexpected find in her late grandmother’s cookie jar — not sweet treats, but a rare 1943 bronze Lincoln penny. Amid a jumble of old coins, she noticed Continue reading