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Selling Coins Online: Which Coins Can You Sell That are Worth Good Money?

26 min read

Buying and selling have gone in an entirely new direction with the introduction of 21st-century technology and the internet. Many people now sell their products and services in an online setting.

One of the most exciting sectors of the online marketplace has been the increasing accessibility of collectibles to a wider audience. And chief among popular collectibles are coins.

Selling coins online is a lucrative business if you have a good grasp of the coin market, and a little ecommerce know-how.

Research from auction houses shows that lucrative sales of rare coins are on the rise, with the numbers climbing up to the seven figures range. This implies that the coin market is healthy, as indicated by the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG).

We’re here to talk about what coins are in demand, and how you can meet these demands by selling to online buyers.

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Why Sell Coins Online

If you’ve ever dreamed of selling coins online, this is the perfect time to try it out. One of the best ways to locate buyers for your coins is to take them online. Why online? Because 63 percent of shopping journeys begin online, and this makes online coin store a lucrative option to consider.

And with the plethora of advantages offered by Ecwid as an ecommerce platform, you will automatically open up your coins to a wider audience. You also have the opportunity to close deals much faster, through online payment gateways and automatic shipping calculations.

Another reason to take your coins online is in case of rare coins (those for which it could be difficult to find the right buyer), the online marketplace can be a great way to get your coins out there for potential buyers from around the world to see.

Selling coins has never been easier because of the wide variety of options available to validate them as you can also launch your store and sell everywhere, anywhere, anytime.

31 Most Wanted Coins that are Worth Selling or Collecting

Silver and gold American Eagles generally take the top spot on the average list of the most wanted coins for the private collectors, at least in the English-speaking world.

That means, if you happen to have one for sale, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding a buyer, especially in an online setting. Based on demand and value, the following coins are the most in-demand and can be sold online through your storefront.

1796 Draped Bust Quarter

The quarter-dollar plays a vital role in the US economy, serving as its workhorse since 1796. The first-ever circulating quarters, the 1796 Draped Bust quarter, designed by Robert Scot, are considered rare and hold a special place as the first-year coin of its denomination. Any example of this 18th-century US coin is deemed a national treasure, with even a Good-4 graded specimen commanding a price of around $10,000.

1864 Two Cents

Did you know that the 1864 Two Cents coin in America had a face value of two cents? It was the first coin in the United States to feature the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” While rare and valuable, these coins can be obtained for less than $50 in decently circulated condition. They make a great addition to any US coin collection and are excellent conversation starters.

1876 Liberty Seated Half Dollar

The Liberty Seated design, also known as “Seated Liberty,” was a prominent representation of American coinage in the 19th century. It adorned numerous United States silver coins from the late 1830s to the early 1890s, with some examples being rare and valuable. However, there are still affordable options available, such as the 1876 Liberty Seated half dollar, which can be acquired for under $100.

1883 “No Cents” Liberty Nickel

The 1883 Liberty Head nickel, without the word “cents” and featuring a Roman numeral “V,” caused a stir as people tried to pass it off as a $5 gold coin. Crafty crooks gold-plated the nickel and deceived unsuspecting victims. One intriguing story involves Josh Tatum, a deaf and mute man who cleverly used gold-plated nickels to make purchases worth five cents. Although he was eventually caught, he couldn’t be convicted as no one could testify that he claimed the coins to be $5 gold pieces. Get an 1883 No Cents Liberty nickel today for less than $10 and own a fascinating piece of history.

1892 Columbian Commemorative Half Dollar

In 1892, the United States introduced its first commemorative coin program to celebrate Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The 1892 Columbian half dollar was created for the 1892 Chicago World’s Fair and sold for $1 each. As the first official U.S. commemorative coin, it holds significant historical value and is accessible to collectors, with circulated specimens selling slightly above their melt value and uncirculated pieces starting at around $50.

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

The 1909 Lincoln Penny holds great significance within the Lincoln Cent collection, renowned for its popularity. Designed by Victor David Brenner, this coin caused a stir by featuring his full initials, VDB, on the reverse side. However, the San Francisco facility later decided to remove the initials, resulting in the scarcity of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cents.

1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury dime is a remarkable rarity that holds a prominent position on coin collectors’ wishlists. Minted during the inaugural year of production, it is skillfully crafted by renowned Adolph A. Weinman. With a limited mintage of just 264,000 pieces, it is even scarcer than the esteemed 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent. Expect prices starting from $1,000 for this ultimate key date in the Mercury dime series.

1921 Morgan Silver Dollar

Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, the Morgan Silver Dollar was first minted in 1878 and produced until 1904. It then took a 16-year break. During World War I, the Pittman Act allowed up to 350,000,000 Morgan Silver Dollars to be melted, with most of the silver sold to the United Kingdom. The act also authorized the minting of new silver dollars. In 1921, the U.S. Mint produced the Morgan Dollar one final time before being replaced by the Peace Dollar, commemorating the end of the war. In 2021, the U.S. Mint reintroduced the iconic design to mark the centenary of the transition from the Morgan to the Peace Dollar.

1921 Peace Silver Dollar

The Peace Dollar, a centenary piece highly sought after by coin collectors, was introduced by the U.S. Mint to meet the demand for silver coins after the First World War. Designed by Anthony de Francisci, it first entered circulation in 1921. Although the program was discontinued in 1928, it made a comeback in 1934 and 1935, with the last strike being the 2021 Commemorative edition. Peace Dollars are prized collectibles due to their variations, reflecting the different US Mint branches where they were produced.

1932 Washington Quarter

The Statehood Quarters and America the Beautiful series are two highly successful numismatic programs in the U.S. coinage history. Washington Quarters, introduced in 1932 to celebrate George Washington’s birth, should not be overlooked. Collectors who started with the State quarters would appreciate this piece to expand their collection.

1933 Indian Head Gold Eagle

The 1933 Indian Head gold eagle is a rare numismatic coin that narrowly avoided gold confiscation by the government. With only a few surviving, these coins are highly valued and legally owned. Mint employees took advantage of a time gap to exchange earlier coins for the 1933 edition, resulting in limited availability. The estimated value of a 1933 gold eagle ranges from $162,000 in AU50 condition to $600,000 in MS65 condition.

1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar

The Walking Liberty half dollar is widely regarded as the most beautiful silver coin produced by the United States. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, it was minted from 1916 to 1947. While some dates are scarce and expensive for collectors, the 1938-D issue with a mintage of 491,600 is a sought-after key date. An uncirculated example can be purchased for around $500.

1942-P Jefferson Silver Nickel

During World War II, the composition of the Jefferson nickel changed to conserve nickel for the war effort. The new silver-based composition, used from 1942 to 1945, can be distinguished by the prominent “P,” “D,” or “S” mintmarks on the coin. These war nickels are valued for their silver content and can still be found in circulation.

1943 Copper Penny

The 1943 copper penny is an extremely rare mint error with significant monetary value. Only 40 of these coins were unintentionally produced during World War II when the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel pennies to conserve resources for ammunition. Some bronze planchets from the previous year’s production remained in the mint presses, resulting in coins with the 1943 date. If you happen to have a 1943 copper penny, it could be worth $10,000 or more. Be aware of counterfeit versions and ensure the authenticity of your coin. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a remarkable piece of history!

1943 Lincoln Steel Cent

The 1943 Lincoln Steel Cent is a unique coin that was produced during World War II when copper was needed for ammunition. Made from steel with a thin coating of zinc, these pennies were initially believed to be rare and valuable. While circulated and worn examples are more affordable, better-condition coins can be found and certified by third-party services. Despite its commonality, the history behind this coin makes it a fascinating addition to any collection.

1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny

The 1955 doubled die Lincoln penny is a well-known error coin produced by the U.S. Mint. The doubling on the front side is easily noticeable without magnification. The word “LIBERTY,” the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the 1955 date show clear doubling. However, the reverse side of the coin is flawlessly crafted and does not exhibit any doubling. This error is hard to miss, making it easy to distinguish between the genuine version and the less conspicuous 1955 “poor man’s” doubled die. In near-mint condition, this rare coin could be valued at around $1,800.

1964 Kennedy Half Dollar

The Kennedy half-dollar, a popular coin in the US, was created to honor the late President John F. Kennedy. It replaced Benjamin Franklin’s depiction and became a highly collected silver piece. The first Kennedy half-dollar had a 90% silver composition, while later versions were made of silver (40%) and other metals.

1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar, minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly in 1999, holds several notable distinctions. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring Susan B. Anthony and her role in the suffrage movement. Additionally, it introduced a smaller size and an eleven-sided rim, paying tribute to the Apollo 11 insignia.

1986 American Silver Eagles

The American Eagles program, launched in 1986, is renowned worldwide for its success and popularity. It includes gold and silver bullion coins, as well as proof versions. The Silver Eagles feature the timeless “Walking Liberty” design, while the gold coins showcase Liberty from the 1906 Double Eagle coin. The 1986 edition holds iconic status as the inaugural coin. Uncirculated coins offer liquidity and portfolio value, while proof coins are prized collectibles for their stunning design.

1992 “Close AM” Penny

Coins must be minted precisely, as any deviation from accuracy catches collectors’ attention. Interestingly, this coin is not an error; it has a modification that sets it apart from the standard penny of its year. Take a moment to examine the reverse side and observe the “AM” inscription. In 1993, proof coins and business strikes transitioned from the Wide AM to the Close AM design. However, a small number of 1992 cents were produced with the newer Close AM design of 1993. These rare coins are valued at $25,000. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of numismatic history!

1997 Double Ear Lincoln Cent

The 1997 Double Ear Cent displays a remarkable doubling effect on Lincoln’s earlobe and ear. There is also visible doubling on the lock of hair in front of the upper ear and other areas. These doubling features are believed to be caused by a double striking, enhancing the coin’s desirability. Even in circulated condition, this coin can be valued at approximately $50. Don’t miss the chance to own this captivating piece of numismatic history!

The 1999-P Connecticut Broadstruck Quarter

When a coin is not aligned properly with the machine during minting, it is referred to as being “broadstruck.” This misalignment causes the coin to appear off-centered. In 1999, a number of Connecticut state quarters entered circulation and are now valued at 100 times the standard quarter. If you happen to come across one, you could find yourself $25 wealthier.

2004 Wisconsin State Quarter with extra Leaf

The front side of this quarter showcases the standard design of the Wisconsin Quarter, with a few modifications. Introduced on October 25, 2004, it features a round of cheese, a cow, and an ear of corn. Among the 2004 Wisconsin Quarter variations, the most sought-after are the ones with an extra cornstalk leaf, pointing up (the “High Leaf”) or down (the “Low Leaf”). These coin variations, part of the State Quarters series, have gained immense popularity, with speculations that the extra leaves were intentionally created at the Denver Mint. Finding one of these quarters in your change could be valued at around $300 for the High Leaf variation and up to $250 for the Low Leaf variation on average.

2005 Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel

Introducing the second-most modern coin, the captivating Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel! From 1913 to 1938, US 5-cent coins featured the majestic bison on the reverse, honoring the native North American animal. In 2005, the bison design returned, paying tribute to the world’s diverse wildlife. Have you ever come across a 2005 nickel with this extraordinary characteristic? The Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel has gained immense popularity, with prices soaring as high as $1,265. Join collectors in celebrating the allure of this remarkable coin!

The Godless 2007 Presidential Dollar Coin

Check out the impressive Presidential Dollar Coin series by the U.S. Mint in 2007! This esteemed collection features late presidents, adding honor and legacy. While notable figures like Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Jimmy Carter were ineligible, this coin program reintroduced edge lettering after 74 years. Interestingly, some Presidential Dollar coins are called “Godless,” due to their unique absence of edge lettering. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! The rare “missing edge lettering” error can be worth anywhere from $29 to $228 in the marketplace.

2023 Britannia Coins Type 1

The Britannia Series, introduced by the British Royal Mint in 1987, includes gold, silver, and platinum coins. Depicting Britannia, the symbol of the United Kingdom, on the reverse side, these coins hold national significance. The obverse side features the portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning female monarch. Following her passing in 2022, a temporary Type 1 version of the 2023 Britannias with the Queen’s bust was released while production adjusted for the new obverse motif, featuring the current King.

2023 Britannia Coins Type 2

These exquisite coins have significant investment value and captivate collectors with their undeniable allure. The reverse side motif of Britannia remains unchanged, while the obverse features a majestic left-profile bust of the King. Encircled by his name, face value, and Latin initials representing “By the grace of God, King,” these premier coins showcase the King’s inaugural depiction like never before. Experience the charm and regal presence of King Charles III on these extraordinary coins.

American Gold Buffalo Coins

The Gold Buffalo coin is a sophisticated addition to any coin collection. It is a 24-karat gold bullion coin produced by the US Mint, making it the first of its kind. With its full-length depiction of an American Bison on the reverse side, the coin is commonly referred to as the “Buffalo.” The obverse side features a revised version of the Indian Head coin, designed by James E. Fraser in 1913, paying homage to the nation’s indigenous people. As the first 24-karat gold coin made by the United States Mint, the American Gold Buffalo holds significant historical value.

Austrian Silver Philharmonic

The Austrian Silver Philharmonic coins feature an exquisite design, showcasing the renowned Philharmonic Orchestra of Vienna. Created by Thomas Pesendorfer, this series debuted in 1989 with a gold coin. In 2008, the Austrian Mint introduced the silver counterpart, quickly becoming a top-seller. In 2016, the platinum version was added, expanding options for collectors. This collection combines artistry with precious metal investment.

Chinese Silver Panda coins

Every year, the Chinese Mint unveils a new design for the Panda bullion coins program. This annual variation adds intrigue to collecting Chinese Panda coins. For intermediate collectors, Chinese Silver Pandas offer a more affordable option. If you prefer gold investment advantages, the Gold Pandas also serve as exceptional collectible coins. The Panda Series was introduced by the Chinese Mint in 1982 with gold coins, initially measured in troy ounces. In 2016, the Chinese Mint transitioned to the international system of units, and now all coins are weighed in grams.

Lunar Series Coins

The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series is a popular choice for coin collectors. It features the Chinese Zodiac as a motif, with each year corresponding to a different animal. The series releases a new design each year, honoring the regent animal of that year. Currently, the Lunar Series is on its third cycle (Lunar Series III), with two previous editions, each consisting of 12 coins.

Top 5 of the Most Valuable Coins in the World that Cost a Fortune

Just because a coin is rare and expensive doesn’t mean that the only place you can find one is in a museum. It’s easy to find and sell rare coins out in the world, and one way for the coin enthusiast to become a lucrative coin monger is to sell coins online, with a little help from Ecwid.

#1  1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

Currently estimated price: $20,165,100

The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a highly coveted and valuable coin. With only one privately owned specimen, it fetched a record-breaking $18.9 million in a recent auction. Despite government orders to melt down all privately held coins of this type, one specimen remains in private hands, making it the most valuable U.S. coin in existence.

#2  1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

Currently estimated price: $18,339,515

The sole surviving 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle stands as a remarkable testament to the California Gold Rush. Minted as the very first of its kind in the United States, this rare coin symbolizes an era of historic significance. While the Smithsonian Institute proudly preserves one of the two known specimens, the location of the other remains a mystery. Should the Smithsonian coin ever find its way to auction, experts estimate its value to range between a staggering $10,000,000 and $20,000,000.

#3  1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar

Currently estimated price: $13,280,850

The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a rare and valuable coin with a unique depiction of Lady Liberty. Only a small number of these coins were minted, and today, there are estimated to be between 120 and 130 in existence. Considered the first-ever silver dollar in the United States, one particularly well-preserved 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar stands out. It was sold at auction in 2013 for over $10 million. Recently, it went up for auction again in October 2020 but remained unsold.

#4  1787 Brasher Doubloon

Currently estimated price: $9,986,500

The Brasher Dubloon, the first gold coin produced in the United States, holds historical significance. Crafted by Ephraim Brasher, only seven coins were made. The recent auction of a 1787 Brasher Dubloon set a new record at $9.36 million, with experts speculating its future worth to reach $100 million.

#5  1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle

Currently estimated price: $8,400,000

Only three 1822 Capped Bust $5 Half Eagle gold coins exist today, making them incredibly rare. The Smithsonian Institute houses two, while one remains in private possession. The finest example, graded AU-50 by PCGS, recently sold for a record-breaking $8.4 million at auction.

Top Selling Coins on Public Marketplaces

Marketplaces such as Amazon or eBay are a popular destination for collectors seeking rare coins. While they may not be the ideal platform for selling a million-dollar ancient coin, they serve as an excellent venue for finding customers interested in collections or individual coins valued at $100 or less.

Here’s the list of coins that are in demand on marketplaces

Top selling coins on Amazon

  • World coins collections
  • WW2 World Currency
  • American silver eagle
  • Pearl Harbor and Japanese Invasion Coins
  • 2017 President Donald Trump Inaugural Silver coins

Top selling coins on eBay

  • 1922 S US Peace Silver Dollar
  • Silver Ben Franklin Half Dollar
  • 1964 Proof Silver Kennedy Half Dollar
  • Unsearched Lincoln wheat pennies
  • 1875  Liberty Seated Silver Twenty Cents

How to sell coins online with Ecwid

Thinking of selling old coins? Whether you have a coin collection at home or want to venture into the coin selling niche, it can be stressful not knowing where to start or how to maximize their value.

But fret not! Selling coins online is now easier than ever. Our concise guide will help you sell your old coins, regardless of your reason for selling.

Discover how to connect with buyers, optimize coin value, identify top online platforms, and start making sales without a large upfront investment.

Conclusion

It is truly astounding to contemplate how a coin that was once worth just $1 can now command millions of dollars. This is just one of the many treasures that awaits a burgeoning coin enthusiast.

And of course, for someone to acquire a coin, there must be a willing seller.

So, if you happen to be a person with a collection of coins, now presents a wonderful opportunity for you to explore selling rare coins online. To thrive in this business, it is crucial to focus on rare coins that hold the highest demand in the market.

But fear not, for starting out requires nothing more than an ecommerce platform that is user-friendly. With this, you can create a website that serves as a dedicated marketplace for your blossoming coin enterprise.

A virtual space that caters to coin enthusiasts, where you can sell your coins without worrying about commissions or transaction fees, while still maintaining reasonable costs.

When it comes to online coin sales, there are numerous options available.

However, we highly recommend utilizing an ecommerce platform like Ecwid. By leveraging its built-in audience feature, you can take advantage of its distribution channels. By establishing your own online store, complete with enticing promotions and exclusive deals, a website affords you the opportunity to gather email addresses for marketing purposes and execute captivating campaigns. Integrating your website with Ecwid will significantly enhance your selling capacity.

Already have a website? No worries! Simply install Ecwid as a shopping cart plugin, and you’re ready to embark on your coin-selling journey!

 

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About the author

Max has been working in the ecommerce industry for the last six years helping brands to establish and level-up content marketing and SEO. Despite that, he has experience with entrepreneurship. He is a fiction writer in his free time.

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