4 Pieces of Rare Coinage and Paper Currency That Could Be in Your Possession

If we were to be completely honest, we don’t think much about the presence and potential value of the money we carry on a daily basis. We feel safe to assume that the monetary value printed on the note or coin is as advertised. Additionally, these sentiments extend to antique coinage or bills that could be tucked away in our attics, basements or otherwise. However, what we may not realize is just how much value that these pieces can hold, which a reputable buyer can easily identify. 

Some of the most sought-after pieces of currency could even be hiding in plain sight, potentially tucked away in old wallets, sock drawers, jars of loose change, or passed down through family members. While finding these coins may be difficult, the process to sell coins in Medford is simpler than you think.  Let’s take a look at four coins and rare pieces of paper currency that you could be in possession of and why they’re so valuable.

1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent: A Beautiful Mistake

History is chock full of various anecdotes known extensively by experts and the story of this coin is no exception. In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for pennies to save copper for the war effort. However, against their best efforts, a few bronze planchets, which are copper-based, from 1942 mistakenly made it into the presses. There is an extraordinarily low amount of these coins floating around. Only a select handful of these 1943 bronze cents exist, and if you have one, it could potentially be worth six figures. There are only about 20 of them that are known to exist and they could be worth upwards of 100,000. 

1913 Liberty Head Nickel - The Mysterious, Million-Dollar Coin

If you think all nickels are worth just five cents, think again. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and mysterious coins in U.S. history. With only five known examples in existence, this rare coin has sold for as much as $4.5 million at auction, making it one of the most valuable American coins ever. While the U.S. Mint stopped official production of these in 1913, five coins with the 1913 date and Liberty Head design surfaced and none of them came with official Mint documentation. 

Most experts believe the coins were unofficially struck by a Mint employee, possibly for private collectors, making them both rare and shrouded in controversy. Although they’re extremely rare, one was discovered in a car dealership owner's collection in the 1960s, and another surfaced in a box of heirlooms decades after its owner passed away. 

$500 and $1000 Dollar Bills: Cartoon Money That’s More Real Than Fiction

You might think that the largest bill in U.S. circulation is the $100 bill, but historically, that wasn’t always the case. Once upon a time, $500 and $1,000 bills were printed and used in everyday transactions by banks, businesses, and even individuals. If one should come into your possession, you'd be forgiven for thinking that it was an obvious fake. However, coming across a $500 or $1000 bill is possible and has very real value. The government officially stopped printing high-denomination bills in 1945, and they were formally discontinued by the Federal Reserve in 1969 but they can still fetch serious value from collectors.

A well-preserved $500 bill featuring President William McKinley can sell for $1,500 to $3,000 or more and a $1,000 bill with President Grover Cleveland could fetch $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the rarity and condition. Believe it or not, people occasionally stumble upon them in old safety deposit boxes, hidden among family heirlooms, or even tucked inside books or picture frames. If you find one, try not to spend it, as they’re still technically legal tender. Take it to an appraiser right away. 

$2 Bills with a Red Seal: A Hidden Gem in Your Wallet or Drawer

$2 bills are already seen as odd and a quirky piece of American history by many, but older ones printed with red seals, instead of the traditional green, are particularly collectible. These $2 bills issued from 1928 to 1963 were classified as United States Notes. If you’ve inherited a stash of old bills, check for red seals and some rare serial numbers. While most red seal $2 bills aren't going to make you an overnight millionaire, many are worth far more than face value, especially if they’re in excellent condition or are from specific series.

Crisp, uncirculated bills (graded as CU or AU) can sell anywhere from $20 to over $100. Worn or heavily circulated bills are generally worth a less hefty sum, usually $5 to $10, but they’re still worth keeping! The earliest series, 1928, can be more valuable due to lower print runs. Series like 1928B, 1928C, and 1928D are harder to find and can command premium prices. The red seal $2 bill is a beautiful reminder of how American currency has evolved and how even small denominations can carry big stories. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just found one tucked in a birthday card from your great-aunt, these bills are worth a second look

If you ever find yourself in possession of a strange coin or paper note, you’d be wise to hang on to it and consult a professional in regards to its value. The experts at Cherry Hill Coins Jewelry & Gold are the perfect authority when it comes to rare and collectible tender. In addition to allowing you to sell sterling silver near Burlington, they’re able to offer you a fair price for these hidden treasures you didn’t even know you had. So, the next time you go through your attic or cellar and find an unusual coin or bill, you’ll know who to get in touch with. We’d be happy to shed some light on its history and provide your wallet with a boost in exchange.