Learn which of your pocket change coins is worth a significant premium over face value and what to look for. Then, to speed things along, you should acquire the proper equipment and learn how to find rare error coins in your pocket change by using a proven methodology.

How to detect: Look for an apparent doubling of the entire obverse (“heads” side) except for the mint mark. If the mint mark is doubled, it is probably a case of strike doubling rather than a doubled die, which isn’t worth much. This is because mint marks were punched into the coin die separately in 1969 after the doubled die had already been made.Approximate value: Approximately $40,000 or more in AU-50 or better.

How to detect: The rarer Small Date variety is most easily distinguished from the standard type by the weakness of LIBERTY. Another way to identify the Small Date variety is to look at the 7 in the date. If it is level with the other numerals in the date, it is the Small Date variety. If the numeral seven is slightly lower, then it is the more common Large Date variety. The Doubled Die Obverse is best demonstrated by doubling in LIB and IN GOD WE TRUST.Approximate value: Around $3,500 in EF-40 or so.

How to detect: An apparent doubling of all obverse elements; look for a tiny gouge near the edge above the D in UNITED as a die marker. You will need at least a 6X magnifier to authenticate this variety. Also, make sure to use a quality light about 18 inches from the coin’s surface. This will help you see these minor differences easier.Approximate value: Nearly$500 in EF-40 or more.

How to detect: There is some defect on the die that makes it appear as if there’s an extra leaf on the lower left-hand side of the ear of corn on the reverse. The leaf is very prominent, and a magnifying glass is not necessary to make this observation. Two varieties are known, the High Leaf and the Low Leaf type.Although no counterfeit coins are known to exist, it is just a matter of time before counterfeits of this valuable coin start to appear on the market. Therefore, ensure your Wisconsin High Relief or Low Leave variety authenticated by a reliable numismatist.Approximate value: $200 to $300 in MS-60 or so.

How to detect: The AM in AMERICA on the reverse is clearly separated in the Wide variety. The letters AM are very close or touching in the standard variety for these dates.Approximate value: $5 to $25 in circulated condition, $75 to $600 in MS-63 or better, depending on color. 1999 brings the highest prices, with 2000 being second.

The letter “P” was being used for coins made at the Philadelphia facility, “D” for Denver minted coins, and “S” on dimes minted in San Francisco. Therefore, all coins should have a mintmark. Since this coin has no mint mark, it is moderately valuable. Beware of altered coins that may have had the mint mark removed by an unscrupulous person.

How to detect: The 1982 dime is missing a mint mark.Approximate value: About $30 to $50 in AU-50, more for higher grades.

How to detect: Look at the edge. The inscription should appear fully encased all around the circumference of the coin. Missing or doubled inscriptions are rare and valuable.Approximate value: $50 to $3,000, depending on the President.

How to detect: Clear doubling in LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST.Approximate value: About $20 to $40 in uncirculated condition.

How to detect: Demand changes from time-to-time based on major coin dealer promotions. Currently, look for Georgia, Connecticut, Tennessee, and Illinois. Quarters must be uncirculated!Approximate value: $20 to $52 per roll for strictly uncirculated rolls of certain states. 

How to detect: If the Half Dollar is dated 1964 or earlier, it is 90 percent silver. Halves dated from 1965 to 1970 are 40 percent silver. You might also find silver Proof Half Dollars, which are 90 percent silver and dated to current. Silver Proof Halves have very shiny, mirror-like surfaces and there is no copper color when you view the edge. Approximate value: Value is based on the silver spot price.

Edited by: James Bucki