When you think about valuable coins, ancient ones with emperors or those from important historical times may come to mind.
But did you know that coins from the 1950s are also highly sought after today? The 1950s were a creative time for U.S. coin designs, and some of these coins can fetch a pretty penny in today’s market.
If you’re lucky enough to have any coins from the 1950s lying around, you might just be sitting on a small fortune. Let’s take a closer look at some of these coins, and find out which ones are worth keeping an eye on.
Proof Sets from the 1950s
From 1950 to 1963, the U.S. Mint released “proof sets” of coins, which were specially made for collectors. These proof sets were sold to collectors at the time, and many of them were passed down to the next generations.
If your parents or grandparents purchased any of these sets, you may want to check them again – they could be worth more than you think.
Dr. Mike Fuljenz, a well-known coin expert and president of Universal Coin and Bullion, explained that some coins from these proof sets are especially valuable.
For example, the proof half-dollars from 1950 and 1951 can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on their condition. Fuljenz said, “The Washington Quarter and Roosevelt dime from these sets can also be worth nearly as much, though the proof nickel and penny are usually worth less.”
Circulated Dimes, Quarters, and Half-Dollars
Some of the most valuable coins from the 1950s are those that have been used or “circulated.” These dimes, quarters, and half-dollars from that era are made of about 90% silver, which makes them particularly valuable today.
Silver prices have been on the rise, so if you have any of these coins from the 1950s, they could be worth more than their face value.
Fuljenz explained that reputable dealers will pay more than 20 times the face value for these silver coins based on the current silver spot price.
For example, a half-dollar coin from the 1950s could be worth over $10, a quarter might fetch more than $5, and even a dime could be worth more than $2.
Dr. Booker T. Washington’s Half-Dollars
Another coin that has become a collector’s item is the Booker T. Washington half-dollar. Issued in 1950 and 1951, these commemorative coins honored the legendary educator Dr. Booker T. Washington, who was the first Black American to appear on a U.S. legal tender coin.
These coins were minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
Though most of the 1950 and 1951 Booker T. Washington half-dollars are found in less-than-perfect condition, they can still be worth between $25 and $50.
However, if one is in near-perfect condition and graded highly by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), it could be worth thousands of dollars.
Why Should You Care About These Coins?
If you enjoy collecting coins, or if you’re simply looking for a way to invest your money, these coins from the 1950s might be a great option.
With their historical significance, silver content, and potential for high value, they are certainly worth paying attention to. And if you have any of these coins at home, it’s time to check their condition and see if you can cash in on their growing value.
Conclusion
Coins from the 1950s might not seem like the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about valuable currency, but they can certainly hold their own in today’s market.
Whether it’s the proof sets, silver coins, or Booker T. Washington half-dollars, each of these coins has a special place in coin history and a valuable spot in your collection.
So, the next time you’re going through your change jar or old coin collection, take a second look at your 1950s coins. They may be worth a lot more than you think!
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