In the world of coin collecting, details are everything. If you come across a penny, dime, or quarter where even the smallest element of design is out of place, you might have a valuable piece of currency on your hands. To learn why mint errors are so desirable to coin collectors, consult the guide below.

What Is a Mint Error Coin?

The coins used today have been manufactured in mints for centuries. While these factories specialize in coin-making and use machines to complete the job, they occasionally make mistakes. Whether due to human error, a mechanical flaw, or a lapse in quality inspection, mint error coins have been subject to production mistakes, making them rare or even one-of-a-kind.

Why Are They Valuable?

Even rare coins are often one of hundreds or thousands in existence around the world. Coins with random production errors are even more unique, which makes them more sought-after. While a rare coin may sell for a standard amount, one with an interesting defect would be even more valuable.

What Are Some Examples?

The Wisconsin State Quarter of 2004 features a cow’s head, a wheel of cheese, and an ear of corn with the husk around it. However, some coins were found with an extra leaf on the corn ear, leading coin collectors to assume it was a mint error. If this was caused by a die gouge, which is a human error, it would make some of these quarters worth up to $1,200.

Other examples include the 2014 Britannia 1-Ounce Silver 2 "Mule" Coin, of which the two faces are mismatched. While the one side should have featured a woman in a dress, it depicts a horse meant for the inaugural Lunar bullion coin series.

One of the rarest coins in existence is also a mint error coin: the 1969-S Lincoln Cent With a Doubled-Die Obverse. One side of this coveted coin features a doubled imprint of the design slightly offset from the intended one. While just a penny, this coin is valued at around $30,000.

If you’re intrigued by the world of rare coins and mint errors, stop by Coins Plus of Cincinnati, OH. They’ve exposed enthusiastic coin collectors to unique finds since 1972, and they’re proudly known as the city’s only "National Award Winning and PNG Dealer." To reach out to one of their skilled coin appraisal experts, call (513) 621-1996 today. You can also visit the website to learn about their buying, selling, and appraisal services.