5 Ultra-Rare U.S. Coins Worth
Rare United States coins worth thousands and even hundreds of thousands of dollars are still hiding in pocket change, coin rolls, and old collections.
And the most shocking part?
You might already own one… without realizing it.
In this guide, we reveal five of the most valuable and ultra-rare U.S. coins in 2025, each with real auction results that prove these discoveries can be truly life-changing 
.
Let’s begin.
1. The 2000 Sacagawea–Washington Mule Error – Worth up to $194,625
This is one of the most mysterious and famous modern coins ever created by the U.S. Mint.
And it was never supposed to exist.
What is it?
A minting accident paired:
- A Washington quarter obverse (front)
with - A Sacagawea dollar reverse (back)
Both were struck on a golden dollar planchet.
This created a hybrid coin called a “mule error.”
Why this coin is legendary
- Less than 20 examples known
- Completely wrong metal, design, and pairing
- Instantly recognizable
- Considered the most famous modern mule error
When it was first discovered in 2000, collectors and experts were stunned.
How to identify it
- Front: George Washington (State Quarter design)
- Back: Sacagawea soaring eagle
- Color: golden (not silver like a quarter)
- Weight & thickness: like a dollar coin
Auction prices
- Early sales: $41,495+
- High-grade examples: $100,000+
- Record sale (2024): $194,625
A true modern-era numismatic miracle 
2. 1974 Eisenhower Dollar (No Mint Mark) – Worth up to $13,500
At first glance, this looks like a normal $1 coin.
Collectors know better.
Key facts
- Minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Copper-nickel clad
- Apollo 11 moon landing reverse
Why it becomes valuable
Most were heavily marked and poorly struck.
High-grade survivors are extremely rare:
- Mint State 66+
- Clean surfaces
- Strong strike
- Possible planchet errors
Auction prices
- Average uncirculated: $200–$600
- Special high grades: $3,000–$8,000
- Record sale: $13,500
Condition turns an ordinary dollar into a four-figure treasure.
3. 1918 Illinois Centennial Half Dollar – Worth up to $51,750
A historic commemorative coin over 100 years old.
Background
- Celebrates Illinois statehood centennial
- Mintage: just over 100,000
- Struck in Philadelphia
- 90% silver
Design
- Front: Abraham Lincoln bust
- Back: Eagle on rock with rising sun
Why collectors love it
- Many were mishandled or stored poorly
- High-grade examples are scarce
- Strong demand among early commemorative collectors
Auction prices
- Typical high grade: $10,000–$28,600
- Exceptional examples: $51,750
A true piece of American history.
4. 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Wide Rim / Near Date) – Worth up to $6,995
This valuable variety hides in plain sight.
The secret detail
Look at the space between the rim and the date:
- Normal coin → wide gap
- Rare coin → date almost touching the rim
This is the Wide Rim / Near Date variety.
Why it exists
Early experimental dies were used briefly in 1979 before being replaced.
Only a small number were struck.
Identification steps
- Check mint mark: P
- Look at the date spacing
- Compare with normal examples
- Confirm with PCGS or NGC
Auction prices
- Mint State examples: $300–$900
- Higher grades: $2,000–$5,000
- Record sale: $6,995
Still occasionally found in collections and rolls.
5. 1972-D Eisenhower Dollar – Worth up to $13,200
This coin proves that condition can create rarity.
Production facts
- Denver Mint
- Millions produced
- Copper-nickel clad
- Heavy bag handling
The problem
Almost all were:
- Scratched
- Dull
- Weakly struck
- Heavily marked
Mint State 67 examples are extremely rare.
Value by grade
- MS64: $100–$300
- MS65: $600–$1,500
- MS66: $3,000+
- MS67: extremely rare
Record sale
- $13,200 for a certified MS67 example
One of the greatest modern condition rarities.
Final Thoughts
Every one of these coins proves a powerful truth:
Rare treasures are still out there
Mistakes create legends
Condition creates fortunes
Knowledge creates opportunity
Always:
- Check your change
- Examine old collections
- Inspect coin rolls
- Never assume a coin is ordinary
Your next discovery could change everything.
