Rare Halves, Quarters, Dimes, Nickels, & Cents at JM Bullion

When most collectors and investors think about rare coins, their minds no doubt turn to Pre-33 Gold and US silver dollars. The high metal purity of these coins is part of the attraction, along with the cultural and historic value of the designs and the periods of history in which the coins were produced. However, America’s common circulation denominations (Halves, Quarters, Dimes, Nickels, and Cents) also provide a niche for coin collectors seeking rare, valuable pieces.

What Makes These Coins Rare?

The most common factors in determining rarity and value are mintage and condition. While modern American coinage is struck in the millions each year, that was not always the case. Older circulating cents, nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars were rarely struck in figures above one million coins per year. In some cases, just a few thousand were issued by a given branch mint.

In addition to notable low mintages, condition is important. These coins were originally produced for use in everyday transactions. As a result, significant handling, wear and tear, and damage occurred. Finding a specimen from a bygone era that remains in good condition today, particularly those in Mint State conditions, is a true treasure.

Examples

Beyond these factors, a rare coin’s value can be determined by its historical significance, design, or even mint errors. Examples include:

• 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: Final year for the Liberty Head Nickel Series and low mintage
• 1955 Lincoln Cent: Several 1955 Lincoln Cents had a mint error known as double-die
• 1909 VDB Lincoln Cent: The first issue of Lincoln Cents included the designer’s initials, but the initials were promptly removed later in the year
• 1916-D Mercury Dime: Very few of these coins were issued by the Denver Mint

Popular Designs

Throughout the course of US Mint history, various designs across several denominations have attracted the attention of collectors and investors. While these coins are highly coveted for the historical significance of their designs, it is also possible to find valuable, rare pieces within these collections that check one or more of the rarity factors mentioned above. Popular designs from previous eras include:

• Draped Bust Cent
• Shield Nickel
• Barber Coinage Series (Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar)
• Mercury Dime
• Standing Liberty Quarter
• Walking Liberty Half Dollar

Buy Rare Halves, Quarters, Dimes, Nickels, and Cents at JM Bullion

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available to assist you at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address. Our Payment Methods page is a great resource if you need answers to common payment-related questions.