The 1950s was a pivotal decade in U.S. coin production, with millions of coins entering circulation. Despite the large quantity, certain coins from this era have become highly sought-after by collectors due to their rarity, minting mistakes, or pristine condition. Here, we explore three notable coins from the 1950s that are considered valuable in today’s market.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous coins in American numismatics, primarily due to a notable minting error. This error happened when the obverse die was improperly aligned during production, resulting in a striking “double-struck” appearance on the coin’s date and inscriptions, including “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.”
How to Spot It:
- Look for distinct doubling on the numbers and text, especially on the date “1955” and the word “LIBERTY.”
Value:
Depending on its condition, the value of a 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent can range anywhere from $1,000 to $17,000. Coins in high-grade condition can command especially high prices.
1950-D Jefferson Nickel
The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel stands out for its rarity rather than any minting error. Produced at the Denver Mint, it has the lowest mintage of any Jefferson Nickel, with only around 2.6 million coins struck. This scarcity has made the coin a desirable piece among collectors.
How to Spot It:
- Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse side, located to the right of Monticello.
- Uncirculated examples tend to be the most valuable.
Value:
An uncirculated 1950-D Jefferson Nickel can fetch anywhere from $500 to $7,000, depending on its grade.