15 Best Coins To Collect in 2023
15 Best Coins To Collect
Discover the definitive collection of America's most sought-after coins, from affordable classics to legendary rarities
Introduction
Everybody has their opinion on what the best coins to collect are, but we've compiled the definitive list for coin collectors to reference. This comprehensive guide features 15 of the most popular and significant United States coins worth collecting—coins you won't find in your pocket change but that represent the pinnacle of American numismatic achievement.
It's challenging to narrow down hundreds of potential candidates to just 15, but this list consists of a diverse array of U.S. coins including valuable rarities, historically significant pieces, and accessible entry points for new collectors. Whether you're interested in precious metals content or numismatic value, these coins would make terrific additions to any collection of United States coinage.
Table of Contents
- 1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
- 2. 1943 Lincoln Steel Cent
- 3. 1864 Two Cents
- 4. 1883 "No Cents" Liberty Nickel
- 5. 1942-P Jefferson Silver Nickel
- 6. 1916-D Mercury Dime
- 7. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter
- 8. 1876 Liberty Seated Half Dollar
- 9. 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
- 10. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
- 11. 1921 Morgan Dollar
- 12. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 13. 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
- 14. 1892 Columbian Commemorative Half
- 15. 1986 American Silver Eagle
- Frequently Asked Questions
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Is there any coin more famous than the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent? While numismatists call the 1804 Draped Bust dollar the "King of American Coins," the 1909-S VDB penny holds that title in the public imagination. This legendary coin serves as the necessary key date for any Lincoln cent collection.
Rarity Statistics
- Only 484,000 coins minted
- Approximately 50,000 survivors estimated
- Minimum value: $600 in worn grades
- Demand far outstrips supply across generations
Historical Significance
Production ended only weeks after release due to public outcry over designer Victor David Brenner's prominent "VDB" initials on the reverse. This controversy created instant rarity and lasting fame.
The Ultimate Collector's Goal
The 1909-S VDB represents the holy grail for Lincoln cent collectors. Previous artists had included initials on coin designs, but most were hidden or less conspicuous. The size and visibility of Brenner's initials sparked accusations of self-promotion, leading to the premature halt in production that created this legendary rarity.
1943 Lincoln Steel Cent
One of the most unusual United States coins is the 1943 steel Lincoln cent. Struck for one year only, the steel penny was made to help save copper for World War II munitions, making these coins precious relics of America's most trying period.
Wartime Innovation
More than 1 billion steel Lincoln pennies were produced in 1943 across Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Despite high mintages, they remain popular conversation pieces and historically significant collectibles.
Accessibility
Steel cents are readily available in coin shops and shows, worth about 20 cents to $1 in worn condition. They can still occasionally be found in circulation, making them accessible to collectors of all budgets.
Collector Appeal
The oddness of steel cents often leads new collectors to believe they must be rare and valuable. While common, their unique silver-colored appearance and wartime history make them fascinating additions to any collection, serving as tangible reminders of American home front sacrifices during World War II.
1864 Two Cents
America once had a coin with a face value of two cents, and the 1864 Two Cent piece holds the distinction as the first United States coin to carry the now-famous national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". This historic significance, combined with surprising affordability, makes it an essential piece of American numismatic history.
Historic Firsts
Many two cent pieces are scarce and valuable, but the historic 1864 issue was hoarded when first released. Today, they can be purchased for less than $50 in moderately circulated condition, making them accessible conversation pieces with tremendous historical importance.
Perfect Entry Point
The 1864 Two Cent piece offers new collectors the opportunity to own the first coin bearing America's national motto at an affordable price. This combination of historical significance and accessibility makes it an ideal addition to both type collections and specialized two-cent sets.
1883 "No Cents" Liberty Nickel
When the 1883 Liberty Head nickel was first released, some unscrupulous individuals began passing them off as $5 gold pieces! The original design used a Roman numeral "V" for the five-cent denomination without the word "cents," creating one of numismatics' most famous design flaws.
The Great Deception
Crooks realized the nickel was approximately the same size as a $5 quarter eagle gold coin. Without "cents" on the design, they could gold-plate the nickel and attempt to pass it off as the valuable gold piece.
Josh Tatum Legend
One famous tale involves Josh Tatum, a deaf-mute who allegedly used gold-plated V nickels to buy five-cent items, often receiving $4.95 in change. He couldn't be convicted because nobody could testify he claimed they were gold—he couldn't speak!
Affordable History
Today, collectors can purchase an 1883 "No Cents" Liberty nickel in well-worn condition for less than $10, making this fascinating piece of American monetary history accessible to virtually any collecting budget.
1942-P Jefferson Silver Nickel
Much like the 1943 steel cent, the Jefferson nickel underwent a wartime composition change. To save nickel metal for the war effort, the composition changed to 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese, creating coins with both historical significance and precious metal content.
Identifying Silver Nickels
The easiest way to distinguish silver-based wartime nickels from regular composition is by looking for large "P," "D," or "S" mintmarks above Monticello's dome. These large mintmarks appear only on wartime nickels made from 1942-1945. The 1942-P war nickel was the first U.S. coin to carry the "P" mintmark for Philadelphia.
Investment Appeal
War nickels are generally worth their silver content value, making them interesting pieces that combine numismatic history with precious metals investing. They occasionally still turn up in circulation, offering the thrill of discovery.
1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury dime ranks high on most collectors' lists of all-time great United States coins. Minted during the first year of this beloved Adolph A. Weinman-designed series, it represents one of the most important 20th-century rarities in American numismatics.
Extreme Rarity
- Only 264,000 minted
- Approximately 10,000 estimated survivors
- Scarcer than the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent
- Values start around $1,000 in worn grades
Series Significance
As the key date for the Mercury dime series, the 1916-D represents the pinnacle achievement for collectors pursuing this popular and beautiful series of 90% silver coins.
1796 Draped Bust Quarter
The quarter-dollar has been the workhorse of the American economy since its introduction in 1796. The first quarters ever produced were the 1796 Draped Bust quarters, featuring the iconic Draped Bust design by Robert Scot and representing the birth of this essential denomination.
National Treasure Status
With only 6,146 pieces minted, all early quarters qualify as rarities, but the 1796 is especially sought-after as the first-year coin. Any example of this important 18th-century coin qualifies as a national treasure, with even Good-4 specimens commanding approximately $10,000.
The Foundation of American Coinage
The 1796 Draped Bust quarter represents the beginning of one of America's most essential denominations. These coins provide direct connection to the early Federal period and the challenges of establishing a national coinage system in the young republic.
1876 Liberty Seated Half Dollar
The Liberty Seated design served as the "face" of American coinage for most of the 19th century. This Christian Gobrecht design appeared on most United States silver coins from the late 1830s through early 1890s, making it one of the most important and recognizable types in American numismatics.
Type Collecting Opportunity
While many Liberty Seated coins are scarce and expensive, the 1876 half dollar offers an affordable entry point into this significant design type. Moderately circulated examples can be purchased for less than $100.
Historical Context
The 1876 date adds Centennial year significance to an already important type coin, representing American coinage during the nation's 100th birthday celebration and the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition.
Budget-Friendly Classic
Prices fall to less than $50 in Good-4 or Very Good-8 grades, making this 19th-century silver type accessible to collectors seeking affordable examples of classic American designs with 90% silver content.
1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
Many consider the Walking Liberty half dollar the most beautiful silver coin ever produced by the United States. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman (also creator of the Mercury dime), this series ran from 1916 through 1947 and continues to inspire modern coin designs.
Accessible Key Date
While several scarce dates exist throughout the Walking Liberty series, many key dates prove financially out of reach for average collectors. The 1938-D, with its mintage of 491,600, represents a sought-after key date that can be obtained for less than $100 in circulated grades, with uncirculated examples available for about $500.
Artistic Legacy
The Walking Liberty design was so beloved that it was resurrected for the American Silver Eagle bullion program beginning in 1986, ensuring its continued place in American coinage and connecting classic numismatics with modern precious metals investing.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
One of the most widely collected silver coins of all time, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar was introduced mere months after President John F. Kennedy's assassination in Dallas, Texas. This coin represents both numismatic significance and a nation's tribute to its fallen leader.
Historical Significance
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar was the last circulating half dollar to contain 90% silver composition. It became a major hit with the public and was widely saved as a souvenir of President Kennedy.
Accessibility
More than 400 million examples were struck between Philadelphia and Denver. Many survive today, often found in old dresser drawers and cigar boxes, making them affordable for nearly any collecting budget.
Silver Content Value
Circulated examples are typically worth their silver melt value, making this historically significant coin affordable while providing exposure to 90% silver content that tracks precious metals markets.
1921 Morgan Dollar
Just about everybody seems to know about silver dollars, and the most popular series is the Morgan or "Liberty Head" type, designed by George T. Morgan and produced from 1878 through 1921. This iconic American coin represents the epitome of 19th and early 20th-century silver dollar design.
Series Completion Challenge
Many collectors spend lifetimes building Morgan dollar collections because so many dates are difficult to find and expensive. However, every U.S. coin collection needs at least one example of this classic design.
Affordable Entry Point
The 1921 Morgan represents the most affordable date in the series. More than 86 million were struck before production shifted to the Peace dollar. Uncirculated specimens with gorgeous cartwheel luster can be obtained for less than $50.
Gateway to Silver Dollars
The 1921 Morgan serves as an excellent introduction to silver dollar collecting, providing the classic design and substantial feel of these impressive coins without the premium pricing of scarcer dates. Its status as the final year adds historical significance to its accessibility.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Few American coins were as short-lived as the Susan B. Anthony dollar, struck only from 1979-1981 and once more in 1999. While widely confused with quarters and unpopular with the public, the "Susie B." represents several important firsts in American coinage.
Historic Firsts
- First circulating U.S. coin with an actual woman's likeness
- First small-size dollar coin
- First U.S. coin with an 11-sided rim
- Honored women's suffrage pioneer
Collecting Value
Despite its controversial reception, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first year of these historically important coins. Gem Uncirculated examples can be purchased for less than $5.
Underappreciated History
While not popular during its circulation period, the Susan B. Anthony dollar represents important social progress and coinage innovation. Its affordable pricing makes it accessible to collectors interested in modern U.S. monetary history.
1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle - Arabic Numerals
Prior to 1933, the United States minted legal-tender gold coins for circulation. Among all designs, one reigns supreme: widely held to be the most beautiful coin ever produced, the Saint-Gaudens double eagle was minted from 1907 through 1933 and continues to captivate collectors and investors.
Artistic Masterpiece
Named for designer Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this $20 gold coin remains one of the most beloved American coins. The 1907 first-year issues are among the most desirable examples of this legendary series.
Accessible Beauty
While high-relief Roman numeral examples are extremely rare, more than 360,000 low-relief Arabic numeral pieces were produced. These sell for modest premiums over gold spot value in circulated grades.
Gateway to Gold Collecting
The 1907 Arabic numeral Saint-Gaudens offers collectors the opportunity to own America's most beautiful coin design at prices close to gold content value. This accessibility makes it one of the most popular entry points into pre-1933 gold coin collecting.
1892 Columbian Commemorative Half Dollar
The United States launched its first commemorative coin program in 1892, coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's landing in the Americas. As the first official U.S. commemorative coin, the 1892 Columbian half dollar is a landmark piece of American numismatic history.
Historic Significance
Authorized by Congress to help fund the 1892 Columbian Exposition (Chicago World's Fair), these commemoratives were sold to expo visitors for $1, double their face value, to support the celebration.
Affordable Landmark
Despite its incredible numismatic history as the first official U.S. commemorative, the coin remains affordable. Circulated specimens sell for small premiums above melt value, while uncirculated pieces start around $50.
Commemorative Foundation
The 1892 Columbian half dollar launched the American commemorative coin tradition that continues today. Its combination of historical significance and affordability makes it essential for type collections and commemorative specialists alike.
1986 American Silver Eagle
A new era in United States coinage began in 1986 with the release of the nation's first official bullion coins. The American Silver Eagle changed the face of silver bullion investment and became the world's most widely recognized modern bullion coin.
Design Heritage
The obverse resurrects Adolph Weinman's beloved 1916 Walking Liberty design, while the reverse features a modern heraldic eagle by John Mercanti. This combination links classic American artistry with contemporary bullion investing.
Market Impact
While 1986 American Silver Eagles are common, they remain in high demand as the first-year coin in the series. They typically sell at significant numismatic premiums over silver spot price.
Modern Classic Status
The 1986 American Silver Eagle represents both the beginning of modern U.S. bullion coinage and a connection to classic American coin designs. Its status as a first-year issue and the series' popularity ensure continued strong demand from both collectors and silver investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's impossible to predict precisely which coins will increase in value, and frankly, some coins will not. The best advice is to pursue coins in exceptionally good condition, such as mint state (uncirculated). The highest-grade coins usually offer the greatest potential for price appreciation.
Collectors consider several key factors: relative scarcity (low mintage or rarity), precious metal content like gold or silver, exceptional preservation (uncirculated condition), and interesting errors such as doubled dies or off-center strikes. Individual taste matters too—collecting coins with appealing designs, themes, or meaningful dates creates personal satisfaction.
Yes! While many collectors love the hobby regardless of profit potential, holding coins for several years often proves a viable investment strategy. This may result from rising precious metal values (for gold and silver coins) or increased numismatic demand due to popularity or scarcity. Generally, collecting the highest-grade coins you can afford provides the best profit potential.
Consult a numismatist or numismatic expert to ascertain rarity. Professional evaluation helps identify coin types and determine whether you have a rare specimen or common pocket change. Factors include mintage figures, survival rates, and collector demand.
First, correctly identify your coin type, then reference reliable price guides such as the Official Red Book (Guide Book of United States Coins), PCGS Price Guide, NGC Price Guide, or USA CoinBook. These resources provide current market values based on coin condition and rarity.
Conclusion
These 15 coins represent the pinnacle of American numismatic achievement, spanning over two centuries of coinage history from the earliest federal issues to modern bullion programs. Each coin on this list offers unique appeal—whether through extreme rarity like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, artistic beauty like the Saint-Gaudens double eagle, or historical significance like the first commemorative Columbian half dollar.
The beauty of this selection lies in its diversity of price points and collecting approaches. Beginning collectors can start with affordable pieces like the 1943 steel cent or 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, while advanced numismatists can pursue legendary rarities like the 1916-D Mercury dime or 1796 Draped Bust quarter. Whether your interests lean toward precious metals content, artistic design, or historical significance, these coins provide entry points into the most rewarding aspects of American coin collecting.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Coin values fluctuate based on market conditions, precious metal prices, rarity, and collector demand. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Always consult with qualified numismatic professionals before making significant purchases.