If you think old coins are only for collectors, think again. In the 1980s, some rare coins were made, which can prove to be very valuable even today. If you have a collection of old coins or you want to check your old coins, then this article can be very beneficial for you.
Let’s know about those four rare coins, whose price can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
1980 Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
What is special about this coin?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was released with great fanfare in 1979, but it did not live up to people’s expectations. Demand was so low that production of this coin was stopped in 1981 and it was reissued for a short time in 1999. However, some coins issued in 1980 had a rare mistake—their rim was wider than usual and the date was very close to the edge. This error makes this coin extremely valuable.
How much could it be worth?
- A 1980 Wide dollar coin has sold for $600 on eBay.
- Some other coins have been seen selling for $575 to $1,000.
If you have an old Susan B. Anthony Dollar coin, look carefully—you may have a rare coin that could be worth a lot!
1984 Error Quarter
What makes this coin so special?
In 1984, the Philadelphia Mint made 676 million Washington Quarters and the Denver Mint made 546 million. These coins had a base value of just $0.25, but some of them are special error quarters that are rare to find among the millions of coins.
Features of an error coin:
- Double-strike (the same design stamped twice)
- Overstrike (stamped over another design)
How much can it cost?
- Online platforms Ruby Lane, Mercari, Etsy and eBay have seen prices for such coins ranging from $150, $200, and $250 to $2,000 or more.
If you have a quarter from 1984, check it out carefully—it might change your fortune!
1986 Full Red Penny
What’s so special about this coin?
A very small number of Full Red Pennies were made in 1986. These coins had a higher amount of copper, which makes them look brighter red than normal pennies.
How much can it cost?
- High-quality Full Red Pennies typically cost up to $175.
- However, in 2019, a coin in perfect condition was auctioned on eBay for $2,400.
This coin is extremely rare, so if you find such a coin, show it to a coin expert.
1986-S Proof Penny
What is special about this coin?
In 1986, the San Francisco Mint made 3.79 million (ie 37.9 lakh) proof pennies. These coins were made especially for collectors and their design is clearer and shinier than other normal coins.
How much can it cost?
- Usually sold for up to $185.
- But, in an auction recorded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) in 2003, a rare 1986-S proof penny sold for $3,450—and this record still stands today.
If you have an S-mintmarked Proof Penny from 1986, it could be worth a lot of money!
Conclusion
Not only are these coins from the 1980s rare, but some of them can be worth thousands of dollars. So, the next time you go through your old coins, pay attention—you might have a coin in your pocket that could prove to be a great treasure!
If you are a coin collector, check your old coins regularly and seek advice from experts. Not only can it be an interesting hobby, it can also become a profitable investment.
FAQs
Q. How can I tell if I have a valuable 1980s coin?
A. Check for unique features like minting errors, wide rims, or proof markings. A professional coin grading service can help determine its value.
Q. What makes the 1980 Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar valuable?
A. Its rim is wider than usual, making the date appear closer to the edge. This rare variation is highly sought after by collectors.
Q. How much is a 1986 Full Red Penny worth?
A. Most sell for around $175, but high-grade examples have fetched up to $2,400 in auctions.
Q. Where can I sell rare coins from the 1980s?
A. You can sell them on platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or through a certified coin dealer.
Q. Are 1986-S Proof Pennies rare?
A. Yes, while many were minted, only a few in perfect condition are valuable, with some selling for over $3,000.