Top 5 Rare Coins From the 1960s That Are Worth a Lot of Money:- The 1960s were a significant decade for coin collectors.
The United States experienced numerous changes during this period, which included transitions in currency design, production methods, and economic conditions. For collectors and investors, the 1960s saw the creation of several rare and valuable coins.
Some of these coins have become sought-after items due to their rarity, historical significance, or errors that make them particularly unique. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 5 Rare Coins from the 1960s that are worth a lot of money today.
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
Background:
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was issued in honor of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963.
The coin was introduced quickly after his death to replace the Franklin Half Dollar and to commemorate his legacy. The design features a portrait of Kennedy on the obverse and the familiar heraldic eagle on the reverse.
Rarity and Value:
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is particularly rare and valuable due to the fact that it was struck in 90% silver, making it one of the last U.S.
coins to contain this amount of silver before the switch to a lower silver content in subsequent years. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most well-known coins from the 1960s and is highly sought after by both collectors and investors.
- Value:
- In average circulated condition, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth around $10 to $15 due to its silver content.
- Uncirculated or higher-grade examples can sell for upwards of $50 to $100, depending on the grade.
- A PR-68 (Proof) coin in excellent condition can fetch several hundred dollars.
Why It’s Worth Money:
The combination of the historical significance of President Kennedy’s assassination and the fact that it contains 90% silver makes the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar a highly collectible item.
2. 1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
Background:
The 1969-S Lincoln Cent is famous for a double die obverse error. This error occurred when the die used to strike the coin was misaligned, causing the image of President Abraham Lincoln to appear twice on the coin’s obverse.
The error is particularly prominent in the date and Liberty inscriptions, which show doubling.
Rarity and Value:
The 1969-S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is one of the most valuable and famous error coins from the 1960s. Due to its rarity and the distinctness of the doubling, this coin has become a sought-after piece for collectors.
- Value:
- In good condition, the 1969-S Double Die Cent can sell for between $300 to $500.
- Higher-grade examples in MS 63 or higher can be worth anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 or more.
- A PR-67 coin in mint condition can fetch upwards of $10,000 at auction.
Why It’s Worth Money:
The value of the 1969-S Lincoln Cent comes from its rarity (only a limited number of these error coins were minted) and the fact that it is one of the most famous and recognizable double die errors in U.S. history. It’s highly coveted by collectors of error coins.
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3. 1964 Jefferson Nickel (Silver Version)
Background:
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel is another coin struck in 90% silver, making it highly desirable to collectors today. During 1964, a number of silver nickels were produced for circulation as the U.S.
Government had to meet the demand for coins during a national coin shortage. The mint eventually switched back to the standard nickel composition in 1965.
Rarity and Value:
Unlike the regular 1964 Jefferson Nickels, which were struck in the usual copper-nickel blend, the 1964 silver Jefferson Nickels are much rarer. They were struck only in limited quantities and are therefore harder to find.
- Value:
- In average circulated condition, a 1964 Jefferson Silver Nickel can be worth $1 to $2 (due to its silver content).
- Higher-grade examples in uncirculated condition can be worth $15 to $20, with rare, high-grade pieces fetching $50 or more.
Why It’s Worth Money:
The primary reason the 1964 Jefferson Nickel is worth money is because of its silver content. In a time of fluctuating metal prices, many collectors and investors seek out coins with precious metal content, and this nickel is particularly valuable due to its limited mintage of silver coins during that year.
4. 1964 Peace Dollar (Proof)
Background:
The 1964 Peace Dollar was minted as a special proof coin to commemorate the end of World War I and the coin’s reintroduction. However, due to various factors, including changes in U.S.
coinage, the Peace Dollar series ended in 1935, and no new Peace Dollars were struck for nearly 30 years. When the 1964 version was produced, it was part of a special proof set and was not intended for general circulation.
Rarity and Value:
The 1964 Peace Dollar is highly rare because only a small number were produced, making it one of the most sought-after coins of the 1960s. Most of the 1964 Peace Dollars were melted down due to the government’s decision to transition to different coins, contributing to the coin’s rarity.
- Value:
- In proof condition, a 1964 Peace Dollar can sell for $50 to $100 depending on the grade.
- A coin graded PR-65 or higher can fetch several hundred dollars.
- Special editions or coins with unique features can sometimes exceed $1,000 at auction.
Why It’s Worth Money:
The scarcity of the 1964 Peace Dollar and the historical significance of the Peace Dollar series contribute to its high value. The fact that only a small number were minted adds to its desirability among collectors.
5. 1965-1967 SMS Coins (Special Mint Sets)
Background:
In the mid-1960s, the U.S. Mint issued a special series of coins called the Special Mint Sets (SMS). These sets were produced in limited quantities and were a response to the shortage of coinage in circulation.
The SMS coins, which included dimes, quarters, and half dollars, were struck with a special process that gave them a satin-like finish.
Rarity and Value:
Unlike the regular coins produced for circulation, SMS coins were not released into everyday use. They were intended for collectors and were packaged in special sets. As a result, these coins are highly sought after, especially in mint or proof condition.
- Value:
- A 1965-1967 SMS coin can be worth anywhere from $5 to $20 for common coins such as the dime or nickel.
- Complete sets from these years in excellent condition can sell for several hundred dollars, depending on the condition and the specific coins included.
- A high-grade 1965 SMS half dollar can reach $50 to $100 or more.
Why It’s Worth Money:
The rarity of SMS coins comes from their limited mintage and the special finish used to produce them. These coins are generally in higher demand among collectors who appreciate unique and rare items.
| Coin | Mint Year | Key Features | Rarity | Value Range | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | 90% silver, designed to honor JFK | High | $10 – $100 (circulated); $50 – $100 (uncirculated); $200+ (proof) | Last year of 90% silver content; historical significance due to JFK’s death and the coin’s widespread recognition |
| 1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) | 1969 | Double die error, noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” | Extremely High | $300 – $500 (good condition); $2,000 – $3,000 (higher grades); $10,000+ (PR-67) | One of the most famous minting errors in U.S. history, especially for its clear double strike |
| 1964 Jefferson Nickel (Silver Version) | 1964 | 90% silver, produced in limited numbers due to the national coin shortage | High | $1 – $2 (circulated); $15 – $50 (uncirculated) | The only silver Jefferson Nickel and one of the last to be struck with silver before the change to cupronickel |
| 1964 Peace Dollar (Proof) | 1964 | Proof coin; limited production due to the end of the Peace Dollar series | High | $50 – $100 (proof); $1,000+ (high-grade) | Limited mintage, highly sought after as one of the last Peace Dollars ever minted and an iconic historical coin |
| 1965-1967 Special Mint Set (SMS) | 1965-1967 | Satin finish coins, not intended for circulation, produced as a collector’s set | Medium-High | $5 – $20 (individual coins); $200+ (complete set in excellent condition) | Limited mintage and special finish give these coins a higher collector’s value, especially for complete sets |
Why are some 1960s coins worth so much money?
A: The rarity, historical significance, and condition of coins from the 1960s are the primary factors that contribute to their high value. Coins with minting errors, limited production runs, or unique features are particularly valuable.
Additionally, coins containing precious metals like silver often increase in value over time due to fluctuations in metal prices.
How do I know if my coin from the 1960s is rare or valuable?
A: To determine if a coin is rare or valuable, check for signs of rarity, such as mint errors, low mintage, or high demand among collectors.
You should also consider the coin’s condition, as higher-grade examples typically command higher prices. Consulting a coin dealer or using online price guides can also help you assess a coin’s value.
Are coins from the 1960s still being minted today?
A: No, the specific coins mentioned in this article, such as the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar or the 1969-S Lincoln Cent with doubling, were minted only in the 1960s.
However, coins from the same series (e.g., the Lincoln Cent or Kennedy Half Dollar) are still being produced today, though they may have different designs or compositions.
How can I sell my rare coins from the 1960s?
A: Rare coins can be sold through reputable coin dealers, online auctions, or coin shows. It’s important to get your coins professionally graded to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
You may also want to consult with a numismatist or use online resources like eBay or CoinFacts to assess your coins’ market value.