The 1960s was a golden era for coin collectors, producing some of the most sought-after coins in history. Many of these coins, thanks to their rarity, errors, or limited mintages, have skyrocketed in value over time.
Today, these treasures are worth far more than their face value, making them a must-have for serious collectors. If you’re lucky enough to own one, you could be sitting on a small fortune.
Let’s dive into the top 5 rare coins from the 1960s that are worth a significant amount of money, detailing their unique features, values, and why collectors are eager to add them to their collections.
1. 1969-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
The 1969-S Lincoln Cent is one of the most valuable error coins from the decade. The doubled die obverse error makes the date and “LIBERTY” appear as though they are slightly shadowed.
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
- Estimated Value: $35,000 to $126,500 (depending on condition)
- Key Features: The doubling is most noticeable on the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
2. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Accented Hair)
Introduced after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar with the “Accented Hair” design is a highly collectible variety. This design was soon replaced, making these coins incredibly rare.
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Composition: 90% Silver
- Estimated Value: $5,000 to $20,000
- Key Features: Striking detail in Kennedy’s hair, particularly above his ear.
3. 1965 Roosevelt Dime with Transitional Error
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver dimes to copper-nickel clad coins. Some dimes from 1965 were accidentally struck on silver planchets, making them highly valuable.
- Mint Mark: None
- Error Type: Struck on Silver Planchet
- Estimated Value: $7,500 to $9,000
- Key Features: Weighs 2.5 grams, compared to 2.27 grams for clad dimes.
4. 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1960 Lincoln Cent came in two varieties: the Small Date and the Large Date. The Small Date variety is rarer and more desirable among collectors.
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia) and D (Denver)
- Variety: Small Date
- Estimated Value: $500 to $5,000
- Key Features: The “6” in the date is more compact and closer to the “0.”
5. 1962 Franklin Half Dollar Proof (Cameo)
Franklin Half Dollars were produced until 1963, making the 1962 Proof Cameo variety a valuable coin. The frosted appearance on the raised designs contrasts beautifully with the mirror-like background.
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Finish: Proof with Cameo Effect
- Estimated Value: $1,000 to $5,000
- Key Features: Frosted design on Franklin’s portrait and the Liberty Bell.
| Coin | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S Lincoln Cent | S | Doubled Die Obverse | $35,000 – $126,500 |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | None | Accented Hair Design | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 1965 Roosevelt Dime | None | Struck on Silver Planchet | $7,500 – $9,000 |
| 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent | None, D | Compact Date Design | $500 – $5,000 |
| 1962 Franklin Half Dollar | None | Proof Cameo Finish | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Why These Coins Are So Valuable
- Mint Errors: Coins with errors like the 1969-S Lincoln Cent and 1965 Roosevelt Dime are rare, increasing their demand.
- Historical Significance: Coins such as the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar hold sentimental value due to historical events.
- Low Mintages: Limited production or specific varieties, like the 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent, add to their scarcity.
- Material Composition: Silver coins from the 1960s retain intrinsic value due to their metal content.
Conclusion
The rare coins of the 1960s are treasures waiting to be discovered in old collections, drawers, or even loose change. These coins represent a combination of historical significance, minting errors, and artistic designs, making them invaluable to collectors.
If you own any of these coins, you could be holding a piece of history worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.
FAQs
1. How can I identify a 1969-S Lincoln Cent with a doubled die obverse?
Look for noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
2. Are all 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars valuable?
No, only the “Accented Hair” variety has significant value due to its rarity.
3. How can I tell if a 1965 Roosevelt Dime is struck on a silver planchet?
Check its weight; silver dimes weigh 2.5 grams compared to 2.27 grams for clad dimes.
4. Is the 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent easy to find?
While rare, it can be identified by its compact date design and might be in old coin collections.
5. What makes proof coins like the 1962 Franklin Half Dollar special?
Their cameo finish and mirror-like background make them stand out, adding to their collectible appeal.
